Streaming Media vs Alternatives: Choosing the Right Solution for Your Course

Selecting between streaming media and alternative formats for course materials requires careful consideration. Instructors must weigh accessibility, licensing, and student needs for each option.

Streaming services offer convenient digital access, while DVDs and CDs remain valuable for certain titles. Understanding the process makes it easier to provide students with essential media.

This article explores how instructors can put films on reserve, the limitations of digitizing physical media, and practical strategies for screening films outside of class.

How Can Instructors Reserve Films for Courses?

Reserving films for your course can be accomplished through several convenient channels. Many educators utilize a designated reading list tool within their course management system for streamlined requests.

By logging into the Canvas platform, instructors can access the Reading Lists option and add films or other media for student use. This approach keeps all resources organized in one place.

Alternatively, instructors may submit requests via a library-provided streaming media request form or simply send an email to the library's streaming media team for assistance with specific titles.

What Happens If a Streaming Version Is Unavailable?

If the library does not currently license the desired streaming film, staff will check additional platforms for possible access. This includes options like Kanopy and similar streaming services.

Should no digital license be possible, a physical copy such as a DVD or CD will be placed on reserve at the library. Instructors will see this reflected in their reading list.

This ensures students can still view required media, even if it is not available in a streaming format. Physical reserves support continued access to important course materials.

Can Physical DVDs or CDs Be Digitized for Online Courses?

Unfortunately, copyright rules prevent the digitization of most DVDs and CDs in the library's collection. This applies regardless of whether the course is in-person or fully remote.

Instructors seeking digital access should request that the library try to obtain a legal streaming license. If this cannot be arranged, physical access remains the primary solution.

Subject librarians may also help explore alternative streaming titles that cover similar themes or topics, supporting instructors in adapting course material as needed.

Are Past-Semester Films Still Available for Use?

Films or audio-visual works used in previous semesters may still be accessible if the library holds a valid streaming license or physical copy. Renewing licenses may be required in some cases.

Instructors can reuse reading lists from past courses by following published instructions or resubmitting requests through the streaming media form or email. Advance planning is highly recommended.

Submitting requests at least two weeks before the semester begins helps ensure all streaming licenses are up-to-date. Lapsed licenses can delay access for students.

How to Determine Streaming Availability for Requested Films?

To find out if a particular film is available for streaming or only on DVD, instructors can consult the library's film catalog or contact the streaming media team directly for assistance.

Providing a complete list of required titles allows the library staff to confirm which formats are available. This helps instructors plan screenings and assignments more effectively.

If only a DVD version exists, arrangements can be made for physical reserve or classroom use, ensuring students can still access the content they need.

What Are the Best Ways to Schedule Film Screenings Outside Class?

For classes requiring regular film screenings, instructors might add an optional weekly recitation to the course schedule during registration. This lets students plan ahead for viewing sessions.

Alternatively, ad-hoc screening sessions can be reserved using the university's room booking system. This is useful for courses with occasional film requirements or limited DVD-only titles.

When using ad-hoc bookings, rooms are confirmed after the semester's add deadline and are subject to space availability. DVDs can be borrowed from the library for these screenings.

List of Options for Accessing Course Media

• Request streaming access via the Canvas Reading List tool
• Submit a streaming media request form to the library
• Email the streaming media team for help with specific titles
• Borrow DVDs or CDs placed on physical reserve at the library
• Schedule group film screenings in campus facilities

Should You Choose Streaming Media or DVD Reserves?

Deciding between streaming media and DVD reserves depends on the film's availability, course format, and student access needs. Streaming is generally more convenient but not always possible.

DVD reserves remain essential for titles unavailable digitally or when licensing restrictions prevent streaming. Both options can coexist within a well-prepared course syllabus.

Consulting with subject librarians and the library's streaming media team can clarify the best approach for your specific teaching context and content requirements.

How to Get Support for Streaming Media Requests?

Support is readily available for instructors facing challenges with media access. Reach out to the streaming media team via email for guidance on streaming, licensing, or physical reserves.

Subject specialist librarians can also assist with finding alternative films or adapting course content in response to licensing limitations or unavailable titles.

Library websites typically include detailed help pages and contact information, supporting instructors in making informed media choices for their courses.

What Alternatives Exist If Streaming Access Is Not Possible?

When streaming licenses cannot be secured, alternatives include using DVD reserves, selecting different films with available streaming rights, or organizing in-person group screenings on campus.

Instructors can work with librarians to identify similar titles or adapt course assignments to fit available resources. Flexibility helps ensure students receive a complete learning experience.

Physical reserves and scheduled screenings remain practical alternatives, especially for courses with unique or less commonly licensed films.

Final Thoughts: Making an Informed Media Choice for Your Course

Selecting between streaming media and DVD reserves involves balancing convenience, licensing, and student access. Collaborating with library staff streamlines the process and supports academic success for everyone.