Guidelines on the recording of lectures or other instructional activities

As of January 2026, UNBC does not have a formal policy governing the recording of lectures or other instructional activities.In the absence of an approved policy, interim guidance has been discussed with the UNBC Faculty Association as part of UNBC’s shared commitment to collegial governance and to working collaboratively toward the development of a clear, comprehensive policy framework.

These discussions recognize the importance of balancing academic freedom, intellectual property considerations, privacy, and effective teaching and learning practices.

As this work continues, the following general principles are being applied on an interim basis:

• Students who access the Access Resource Centre (ARC) may request the right to audio record the lectures, but there is an agreement signed between the student and ARC, and the instructor is informed about this agreement and the associated constraints.
• In all other situations, the audio or video recording of instructors and fellow students without consent is not consistent with the principle of academic integrity (sect 1.4 Academic and Non-academic conduct policy). If students wish to record lectures or other instructional activities, they should discuss and receive the consent of the instructor prior to class or the activity.
• If recording is permitted, it is only to be used for the purposes of private study by the individual student. No reproduction or dissemination of the recording is permissible. This consent will be effective for the Winter 2026 semester only. Please refer to the Academic and Non-Academic Misconduct Policy for more information.
• Any recording of lectures or other instructional activities should be approached with transparency and respect for the rights and responsibilities of faculty, staff, and students.
• Decisions related to recording should consider pedagogical intent, privacy considerations, and applicable collective agreement provisions.

It is important to note that established ARC processes remain fully in place. Students who require accommodations, including access-related supports that may involve recorded materials, should continue to work through ARC.

These processes ensure that accommodations are assessed and implemented appropriately, in consultation with instructors, and in a manner consistent with legal and institutional obligations.

The University and the Faculty Association will continue to work jointly toward the development of a formal policy on the recording of lectures.