Based on the scenario described, Donny's actions are not considered fair use. Here are the reasons:
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Purpose and Character of Use: While using information for educational purposes may sometimes qualify as fair use, Donny's act of copying and pasting sections without adding original analysis or commentary suggests that he is not transforming the work. He is using it in a way that is more aligned with reproduction rather than an educational critique or commentary.
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Nature of the Copyrighted Work: The nature of the work being used also plays a role. If the website contains factual information that is typically more permissible for fair use, it still doesn't absolve the lack of citation and transformation.
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Amount and Substantiality: Copying entire sections of text is likely to be considered using a substantial portion of the original work, which can weigh against fair use.
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Effect on the Market: Although this point may not directly apply in an educational context where the paper is not published, not citing the source may diminish the original creator's ability to receive credit for their work or affect their possible market indirectly by failing to direct readers to the original content.
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Citations and Ethics: Ethical standards in academic settings usually require that sources be credited appropriately, reinforcing the importance of citation in preventing plagiarism.
In summary, Donny's decision to copy and paste without citation does not align with the principles of fair use and constitutes plagiarism. A proper understanding of copyright and fair use involves not just legality but also ethical considerations in educational contexts.