Tutoring Makecode and Profiting

[HassnainM]

Hello

I have seen a question similar to this on the forum regarding the commercial use of MakeCode, but I just wanted to clarify whether one can use MakeCode as a tool to teach coding and profit from it. Suppose someone constructs a curriculum, and they teach coding through MakeCode and, as such, profit from doing so - does this violate any terms and conditions of MakeCode?

[redSprite]

Teaching coding? It’s what it was made for!

Not so much about using it for commercial use… probably no.

[HassnainM]

If you take a look at this question that was asked a couple of years back, there seems to be no issue with using it for commercial use

Any way to obtain a commercial use license?

Hey, guys! I would love to make a game to use in an art installation. This platform seems accessible enough for me to actually be able to make something, but I know there are rules about commercial use. Though I wouldn’t be selling the game, people would have to pay to enter the area where the game would be displayed. I wanted to check if that was okay and, if not, if there is any way I could go about getting a license. I searched all over the site and even emailed the team but can’t find any d…

Maybe @MakeCode could help me with my query - jus to clarify, I’m wondering whether MakeCode can be used as a platform to teach coding, and the tutor profits from teaching off of MakeCode? After all, I won’t be selling any MakeCode products, rather I’m using MakeCode as a tool.

Thank you though @redSprite

[AlexK]

Since you are perseverating, I will respond.

TL;DR version

Seek legal counsel from a professional in your country.

Long version

To my knowledge, no one on this forum is licensed to practice law. If they were, I doubt highly that any would offer legally-binding advice on a public forum to such a vague query. You haven’t even provided the country which has dominion over you or your organization, though I gather that you are from the UK.

RedSprite’s response, while both valiant and virtuous, is technically incorrect with regard to the law in the United States. It is absolutely possible to use MakeCode platforms and material in a way that can generate revenue. It is also very possible to do so in a way that subjects you to criminal prosecution or civil suit.

To wit: Your use of the MakeCode platforms is subject to the Terms and Conditions of Use and other associated, legally-binding agreements provided on the platform, along with the license agreement thereto. Use of any educational content also is bound by licensing agreement and, ultimately, U.S. copyright law. Any use of MakeCode assets in your own materials, including Microsoft branding, is subject to Microsoft’s branding and licensing agreements and, yet again, U.S. copyright and trademark law.

Please. Seek professional, legal counsel in your country.

I am locking this thread as it is not a topic of conversation for this forum.