Streaming Media

A considerable store of valuable audio and video assets exists at GT in formats that are not easily accessed from the desktop. The Office of Information Technology (OIT) and Georgia Tech Library now provide to the GT community a service for converting audio and video assets into streaming media, where permission is conferred by the rights holder. These assets (learning objects) can then be provided to students via E-Reserves and WebCT.

• Request Permission for Streaming Media:

  Complete this form
  THEN mail or bring the form and item to the Circulation Department.

What is streaming media, and how does it work?

Streaming media technology enables the real-time or on-demand distribution of audio, video and multimedia on the internet. Streaming media is the simultaneous transfer of digital media (video, voice and data) so that it is received as a continuous real-time stream. Streamed data is transmitted by a server application and received and displayed in real-time by client applications. These applications display video or play back audio as soon as enough data is received in a receiving station's buffer. Additional information on streaming media can be found at: http://www.streamingmedia.com

Will you convert copyrighted assets?

Audio, video and still images are subject to intellectual property rights and copyright laws just as text materials. The CONFU Educational Guidelines for Digital Images stipulates that, for "fair use" to be satisfied, permission from the rights holder must be granted before converting a copyrighted item into a streaming medium. We require proof of permission granted before conversion may begin. Permission should indicate for how long the new streaming object may be stored on a secure GT server and used for academic purposes. Obtaining permission can be a time-consuming process, taking up to several months. For your convenience, we have provided a sample letter to facilitate the rights permission inquiry. If you are uncertain whether you need to obtain permission to convert material to stream media or a course web page, please contact the Library Reserve Desk at (404) 894-7600.

Where is the converted object stored, and how may it be accessed?

OIT provides a secure video server for streaming media. Posted links to objects are provided either through Library E-Reserves or course web pages. Access to copyright protected material is controlled within GT domains like Library E-Reserves, WebCT or BuzzPort that require authentication. Other authentication options may be made available on a case-by-case basis.