University of Pittsburgh Composition Program Flex@Pitt Recording policy guidance, 2020-2021
Like other aspects of Flex@Pitt, the question of recording a class relies on the judgment and discretion of individual instructors. There are benefits and risks to recording class sessions, and so we offer some context here to help you decide whether to record all or some portion of your class sessions. If you do choose to record, please note that in Pennsylvania, you must obtain the permission of all parties prior to recording any electronic conversation (e.g., over Zoom) or in person if there is a reasonable expectation of privacy (as there is in our composition courses) (Pennsylvania wiretapping law). In other words, you will need to get students' permission prior to recording any online or in-person class session in which they may be captured on audio or video.
Benefits: Recording class sessions can make them more accessible to students, especially those who are remote. If you do choose to record live conversations in your course, be clear about privacy expectations for your students, e.g., the recording should not be shared beyond the course, including on social media or among students' family or friends.
Risks: Recording a conversation may alter it by discouraging students from participating. You may choose not to record any conversations where students are discussing sensitive issues, their personal writing, or even their own interpretations of a text. Instead of recording live conversation among students, you may find alternative means of having non-present students involved (through blogs, discussion boards, etc.).
Some policy language you may consider adding to your syllabus, if you choose to record your class:
Portions of this class may be recorded for the benefit of students unable to be present. I will always let you know if I begin recording the class. Recording video or audio in Pennsylvania requires the consent of all participants. Students are also subject to PA law and are not allowed to record a class without permission of all participants. If you are not comfortable being recorded in conversation in general, please let me know. If you are not comfortable being recorded in any specific situation, you may choose not to participate in discussion.
Some policy language you may consider adding to your syllabus, if you choose NOT to record your class:
Recording video or audio in Pennsylvania requires the consent of all participants. I do not plan to record in-person online discussions in this course and will provide alternative modes of participation in these portions of the course for any student unable who is not present. Students are also subject to PA law and are not allowed to record a class without permission of all participants.