If you include a YouTube video clip as part of a research presentation for fellow classmates during a university lecture, then copyright law: 


will require that you pay compensation to the original creator of the music before you are allowed to use the clip in your presentation. 


will allow reproduction of the music during the presentation without the original creator’s permission, based on the ‘fair use’ principle.  


will require that you contact the original creator of the music and ask permission to use the clip as part of your research presentation. 


will prohibit you to do so, as you will be breaking the law, specifically the South African Copyright Act No 98 of 1978. 

1 answer

When it comes to using YouTube video clips in a research presentation at a university, copyright law can be complex and may vary depending on jurisdiction. However, here's a general overview considering the context provided:

  • Fair Use: In some jurisdictions (like the United States), the 'fair use' principle may allow the use of short clips for educational purposes without needing permission from the copyright owner. However, this principle has specific criteria and may not apply in every situation.

  • Permission Required: In many cases, especially outside the U.S. or in other jurisdictions, using copyrighted material (like music) without explicit permission from the copyright holder is not permissible, even in an educational context.

  • South African Copyright Law: The South African Copyright Act No 98 of 1978 includes provisions that may allow for limited use for educational purposes, but this is not guaranteed and may still require some consideration of fairness and the amount of the work being used.

Given these points, the most accurate answer generally is:

will allow reproduction of the music during the presentation without the original creator’s permission, based on the ‘fair use’ principle.

However, it's essential to ensure that you check the specific copyright laws applicable in your jurisdiction and consider obtaining permission if there's any doubt about whether your use qualifies as fair use or educational use.