CODE OF ETHICS FOR PROFESSIONAL TEACHERS

Pre-discussion
Welcome, everyone, to our pre-discussion on the Code of Ethics for Professional Teachers. As
educators, we understand the crucial role we play in shaping the minds and values of future
generations. Today, we'll delve into the importance of having a comprehensive code of ethics in
our profession, drawing insights from reputable sources and our own experiences.
To start, let's define what a code of ethics for professional teachers entails. According to the
National Education Association (NEA), it's a set of principles that guides educators' conduct and
establishes standards for their professional behavior. This code serves as a framework for
maintaining integrity, professionalism, and accountability in all aspects of teaching.
One key aspect we must consider is the ethical responsibilities we hold towards our students. As
stated by the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE), these
responsibilities include fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment, respecting students'
individuality and diversity, and prioritizing their well-being and academic growth. Upholding
these responsibilities not only cultivates a positive learning atmosphere but also instills trust and
confidence in our students and their families.
Another crucial element of the code of ethics is our commitment to continuous professional
development. The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
emphasizes the importance of ongoing learning and reflection to enhance our teaching practices
and stay abreast of advancements in education. By engaging in professional development
activities, such as workshops, seminars, and peer collaborations, we demonstrate our dedication
to excellence and growth as educators.
Additionally, ethical considerations extend beyond the classroom to our interactions with
colleagues, administrators, and the broader community. The International Society for
Technology in Education (ISTE) emphasizes the ethical use of technology in education,
highlighting the need to safeguard students' privacy, promote digital citizenship, and integrate
technology responsibly into teaching and learning.
As we delve into our discussion, let's reflect on how we can uphold these principles in our daily
practice and navigate ethical dilemmas that may arise. By adhering to a robust code of ethics, we
not only uphold the integrity of our profession but also empower ourselves to make informed
decisions that benefit our students and society as a whole.
Let's open the floor for discussion. What are your thoughts on the importance of a code of ethics
for professional teachers, and how can we ensure its effective implementation in our practice?

LESSON OBJECTIVES
At the end of the lesson, students are expected to;
a. be able to analyze and interpret the key principles outlined in the code of ethics for
professional teachers, identifying examples of ethical and unethical behavior in
hypothetical scenarios.
 b. be able to demonstrate effective communication and conflict resolution skills when faced
with ethical dilemmas, role-playing scenarios that require active listening, empathy, and
assertiveness.
c. demonstrate increased empathy and understanding towards diverse perspectives and
cultural backgrounds, recognizing the importance of cultural competence and inclusivity
in upholding the principles of the code of ethics for professional teachers.

LESSON OUTLINE
I. Introduction (10 minutes)
A. Welcome and Introduction:
- Welcome students to the lesson and explain the importance of ethics in the teaching profession.
- Introduce the concept of a code of ethics for professional teachers and its significance in
guiding ethical behavior.

II. Understanding the Code of Ethics (15 minutes)

A. Overview:
- Provide students with copies of the code of ethics for professional teachers.
- Review the key principles and responsibilities outlined in the code, such as maintaining
professionalism, fostering a safe learning environment, and respecting diversity.
B. Group Discussion:
- Divide students into small groups and assign each group a specific section of the code of ethics
to analyze.
- In their groups, students will discuss the implications of their assigned section and identify real-
life scenarios that exemplify each principle.

III. Application of Ethics (20 minutes)

A. Case Studies:
- Present students with a series of hypothetical case studies involving ethical dilemmas faced by
teachers.
- Encourage students to analyze each case study, consider the principles of the code of ethics,
and propose ethical solutions or courses of action.
B. Whole-Class Discussion:
- Facilitate a discussion where students share their insights and proposed solutions to the case
studies.
- Emphasize the importance of critical thinking and ethical decision-making in professional
practice.
IV. Reflection and Personal Connection (10 minutes)
A. Journal Writing:
- Ask students to reflect on how they can apply the principles of the code of ethics in their future
teaching careers.
- Prompt students to consider specific strategies or actions they can take to uphold ethical
standards in their interactions with students, colleagues, and the community.

V. Commitment and Closing (5 minutes)

A. Pledge:
- Invite students to stand and recite a pledge committing to uphold the principles of the code of
ethics in their future teaching careers.
B. Closing Remarks:
- Summarize the key concepts discussed in the lesson and encourage students to continue
exploring ethical issues in education.

LESSON SUMMARY
In our lesson today, we delved into the significance of the Code of Ethics for Professional
Teachers, recognizing its pivotal role in guiding ethical behavior and professional conduct in the
teaching profession. Here's a summary of what we covered:

1. Introduction to the Code of Ethics:

We began by introducing the concept of a code of ethics and its importance in establishing
standards of professionalism, integrity, and accountability for teachers. We discussed how the
code serves as a framework for ethical decision-making and fosters trust and confidence in the
teaching profession.

2. Key Principles and Responsibilities:

We explored the key principles and responsibilities outlined in the code of ethics, emphasizing
the importance of maintaining professionalism, respecting diversity, fostering a safe and
inclusive learning environment, and prioritizing the well-being and academic growth of students.
Through group discussions and analysis, we gained a deeper understanding of each principle and
its implications in practice.

3. Ethical Decision-Making:
 We examined the process of ethical decision-making and its significance in navigating
complex situations and dilemmas faced by teachers. Using case studies and role-playing
activities, we practiced applying the principles of the code of ethics to real-life scenarios, honing
our critical thinking skills and ethical judgment.

4. Reflection and Personal Connection:

We engaged in reflective activities to consider how we can apply the principles of the code of
ethics in our own teaching careers. Through journal writing and group discussions, we explored
strategies for upholding ethical standards, fostering positive relationships with students and
colleagues, and promoting a culture of respect and integrity in our educational communities.

5. Commitment to Ethical Practice:

Finally, we reaffirmed our commitment to upholding the principles of the code of ethics in our
professional practice. Through a collective pledge, we demonstrated our dedication to
maintaining the highest standards of ethical conduct and contributing to the positive development
and well-being of our students and society as a whole.

In conclusion, our exploration of the code of ethics for professional teachers has provided us
with valuable insights and tools for navigating the complexities of the teaching profession with
integrity, compassion, and professionalism. By embracing the principles of the code and striving
to uphold ethical standards in our daily practice, we can make a positive impact on the lives of
our students and inspire future generations of educators.

ASSESSMENT
1. Multiple Choice Questions:
- What is the purpose of a code of ethics for professional teachers?
A) To enforce rules and regulations in schools
B) To guide ethical behavior and professional conduct
C) To promote competition among teachers
D) To ensure uniformity in teaching methods

- Which of the following is NOT a key principle outlined in the code of ethics?
A) Maintaining professionalism
B) Respecting diversity
C) Prioritizing personal interests over students' well-being
D) Fostering a safe learning environment
2. Short Answer Questions:
a) Describe one ethical responsibility of teachers as outlined in the code of ethics.
b) Provide an example of how a teacher can demonstrate respect for diversity in the classroom.
c) Explain why maintaining professionalism is important for teachers, according to the code of
ethics.

3. Case Study Analysis:

Read the following scenario and answer the questions that follow:

Scenario:
Ms. Rodriguez, a high school teacher, overhears a conversation among students in her class
where they are making fun of a peer with a disability. What should Ms. Rodriguez do in this
situation according to the code of ethics?

Questions:
- What ethical principles are at stake in this scenario?
- How should Ms. Rodriguez respond to the students' behavior?
- What steps can Ms. Rodriguez take to address and prevent similar incidents in the future?

4. Reflection:
Reflect on your own experiences and observations in school. Identify one instance where you
witnessed a teacher demonstrating ethical behavior according to the code of ethics. Describe the
situation and explain why you consider it an example of ethical conduct.

Scoring Rubric:
- Multiple Choice Questions: 1 point for each correct answer (Total: 10 points)
- Short Answer Questions: 3 points for each complete and accurate response (Total: 9 points)
- Case Study Analysis: 5 points for addressing each question comprehensively (Total: 15 points)
- Reflection: 5 points for providing a thoughtful reflection with clear examples (Total: 5 points)

Total Possible Points: 39 points

REFERENCES
National Education Association. (2015). Code of ethics of the education profession. Retrieved
from https://www.nea.org/sites/default/files/2019-09/NEA%20Code%20of%20Ethics%20and
%20Rules%20of%20Conduct.pdf