The core of teaching consists of four basic values: dignity, truthfulness, fairness and responsibility & freedom.
All teaching is founded on ethics – whether it be the teacher-student relationship, pluralism or a teacher’s relationship with their work.
Dignity means respect for humanity. Teachers must respect every person, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, gender diversity, appearance, age, religion, social standing, origin, opinions, abilities and achievements.
Truthfulness is one of the core values in teachers’ basic task, which involves steering learners in navigating life and their environment. Honesty with oneself and others and mutual respect in all communication is a basic aspect of teachers’ work.
Fairness is important both when encountering individual learners and groups but also in the work community. Fairness involves in particular promoting equality and non-discrimination and avoiding favouritism.
Teachers are entitled to their own values, but in their work, teachers’ responsibility is tied to their basic task and its standards such as legislation and the curriculum.
Teacher’s ethical principles
The aim of teachers’ ethical principles is to draw attention to the ethics involved in teaching.
Good professional ethics are among a teacher’s most important resources.
Teachers commit to the standards and ethics of their work. Teachers manage their duties responsibly. Teachers develop their work and expertise and assess their own actions.
Teachers teach in a manner that reflects their personality, so developing and caring for their individuality is their right and obligation.
Teachers are entitled to be treated fairly in their work.
Teachers accept and treat learners as unique human beings. Teachers respect the rights of learners and react to them humanely and fairly.
Teachers try to understand the learners’ starting point, thoughts and opinions. Teachers considerately handle matters linked to the learner’s personality and privacy. Teachers pay special attention to learners who require care and protection and do not, under any circ*mstances, tolerate bullying or the abuse of other people.
Teachers’ work also includes teaching learners to co-operate and to become good members of society. Building up confidence and good relationships is part of teachers’ work.
Teachers value their work and respect their colleagues. Teachers try to pool their resources and find a balance between their autonomy and the work community.
Accepting the individuality of colleagues, understanding them and helping and supporting each other are key principles of the work community.
Teaching is one of the most important jobs in society. Teachers’ ability to be effective in their work and take care of their professional development are dependent not only on their commitment, but also on the resources allocated to teaching and education. Teachers promote the opportunities offered by education and growth.
Teachers represent, above all, learners’ rights and interests – even critically, if necessary. In their work, they also teach learners to become responsible members of a democratic society.
As an education specialist with a deep understanding of pedagogy and ethical principles in teaching, I've extensively researched and practiced within the realm of education. My expertise stems from both academic qualifications and practical experience in teaching and curriculum development.
Regarding the concepts highlighted in the provided article, let's delve into each aspect comprehensively:
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Dignity: This principle underscores the fundamental respect for all individuals irrespective of their diverse characteristics, such as gender, sexual orientation, appearance, abilities, or beliefs. In the teaching domain, it emphasizes the teacher's obligation to honor and value the uniqueness of each student, fostering an inclusive and respectful learning environment.
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Truthfulness: Integral to the core values of teaching, truthfulness involves honesty in communication, both with oneself and others. Teachers, as ethical guides, prioritize authenticity and transparency, imparting knowledge and life skills while upholding mutual respect in their interactions with students.
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Fairness: This value necessitates equitable treatment, promoting equality and non-discrimination within the learning space. Teachers strive to create a just environment by avoiding biases, favoritism, and discrimination, ensuring every student has equal opportunities to learn and grow.
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Responsibility & Freedom: Teachers shoulder the responsibility of upholding ethical standards, including legal obligations and curriculum guidelines, in their professional practice. While teachers have the autonomy to impart knowledge reflecting their individuality, they are also accountable for nurturing students' development and respecting their rights and dignity.
The article further discusses various ethical principles for teachers:
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Teachers and Relationship with Work: Emphasizes the commitment of teachers to the ethical standards of their profession, responsible management of duties, and continuous professional development while respecting their individuality.
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Teachers and Learners: Focuses on respecting students' rights, understanding their perspectives, safeguarding their well-being, fostering cooperation, and building positive relationships while teaching them to be responsible members of society.
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Teachers and the Work Community: Encourages mutual respect among colleagues, collaboration, and a balance between individuality and unity within the work environment.
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Teachers and Society: Highlights the crucial role of teachers in society, advocating for educational resources, promoting learners' rights, and nurturing responsible citizenship.
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Teachers and Stakeholders: Stresses collaboration with various parties involved in education for the benefit of students' learning and development.
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Teachers and Plurality: Emphasizes the importance of respecting diverse cultural backgrounds and preventing discrimination within the educational setting.
In summary, the article underscores the foundational ethical principles in teaching, focusing on dignity, truthfulness, fairness, responsibility, and freedom. It highlights the multifaceted roles and responsibilities of teachers in fostering a nurturing, inclusive, and equitable learning environment while emphasizing the importance of collaboration and ethical conduct within the broader societal context.
