Ethical

So, what are ethics? To clarify this inclusive topic, let’s look at a definition. Merriam-Webster defines ethics as the discipline dealing with what is good and bad and with moral duty and obligation, a set of moral principles, the principles of conduct governing an individual or a group, a guiding philosophy. Ethics are also closely related to two other dispositions: Professional and Reflective. A true professional has a code of ethics and uses critical reflection on their code with respect to values and morality in their daily practice.

In your MAT program it is difficult for you to fully express ethics as they would apply to the teaching profession. It also makes it difficult for professor to assess ethics as well. However, this is the time for you to begin to develop a code of ethics that you will carry and hone throughout your professional life. Consequently, we have selected indicators for this criterion in our rubric that can be assessed and set a base for you to develop into your own code of ethics that can be applied when you start teaching.

All of you are going to be special educators. The Council for Exceptional Children has created a Code of Ethics for Special Educators of Persons with Exceptionalities. Go to this site and read the CEC’s Code of Ethics.
http://www.cec.sped.org/Content/NavigationMenu/ProfessionalDevelopment/ProfessionalStandards/EthicsPracticeStandards/default.htm
This code is not only relevant for special educators but any educator as well. Begin to internalize this code.

Here is the rubric:

Ethical

Above Expectation
• always demonstrates the value of human diversity
• always shows respect for the varied talents of individuals
• always demonstrates compassion toward others
• consistently demonstrates sensitivity to students and colleagues needs interests and development
• always sets high expectations for self and others

Expected
Meets Standard
• demonstrates the value of human diversity
• shows respect and compassion towards others and their varied individual talents
• demonstrates compassion toward others
• respectful of others
• sets high expectations for achievement for self and others
• exhibits awareness and willingness to help others with their needs, interests, and development
• honest


Needs Improvement
Below Standard
• decisions based on self-interest only
• exhibits lack of tolerance for individual differences
• does not plan instruction based on varied abilities of individuals
• dishonest; presents others work as own
• demonstrates a lack of awareness of standards and policies of the profession
• does not exhibits awareness and willingness to help others with their needs, interests, and development