ABC/123 Version X 1 Case Study: Ethics Coach Dilemma 1

ABC/123 Version X 1 Case Study: Ethics Coach Dilemma 1 EDU/215

Refer to the “Ethics Coach Dilemma” video. This case study focuses on analyzing the relationship between ethics and education. Answer the following four questions. Each response should be at least 150 to 250 words in length.

1. If you were Coach Carl, how would you handle the situation?
2. Which ethical theory or theories support your approach? Why?
3. Which domain (dispositions or law) does your response lean more closely toward? Why?
4. How does this situation depict the relationship between ethics and education?

Paper For Above instruction

The ethical dilemma faced by Coach Carl in the “Ethics Coach Dilemma” highlights the complex interplay between personal integrity, professional responsibilities, and student welfare within educational settings. In this scenario, Johnny Sutton confides in Coach Carl about his sexual activity and concerns about pregnancy and lack of access to parental guidance. Coach Carl’s immediate instinct might be to protect Johnny’s confidentiality; however, as an educator and mentor, he also bears the responsibility to ensure Johnny’s health, safety, and adherence to legal and ethical standards.

If I were Coach Carl, I would approach the situation with a balance of compassion, professionalism, and adherence to ethical guidelines. Firstly, I would express understanding and reassure Johnny that he is not alone and that his concerns are valid. It’s crucial to establish a trusting environment where Johnny feels safe to disclose sensitive information. However, I would also gently inform him about the importance of involving trusted adults or healthcare professionals to obtain accurate information and support. Given the confidentiality boundaries, I would clarify the ethical obligation to report certain issues such as potential health risks, especially if Johnny’s safety could be compromised. Nonetheless, I would prioritize Johnny’s immediate emotional well-being and ensure he understands available resources, such as school counselors or health clinics, where he can seek confidential help.

This approach aligns with the ethical principle of beneficence—acting in the best interest of students—while respecting their autonomy. It also adheres to the principle of nonmaleficence, avoiding harm by providing appropriate guidance and support. Moreover, this approach leans toward the domain of dispositions since it emphasizes the personal qualities of empathy, respect, and integrity essential for fostering trust and ethical conduct in education. Respecting Johnny’s privacy while ensuring his safety is a delicate balance that underscores the importance of ethical dispositions, including empathy, trustworthiness, and responsibility, in educational practice.

This situation vividly illustrates the intrinsic connection between ethics and education. Educators often serve not only as conveyors of knowledge but also as moral agents who influence students’ character development and decision-making processes. Ethical conduct requires educators to navigate complex situations with integrity, prioritizing students’ overall well-being and respecting their rights. It underscores that education is not solely about academics but also involves fostering moral virtues and responsible citizenship. The dilemma exemplifies how ethical principles guide educators in addressing real-world issues that impact students’ lives beyond the classroom, ultimately shaping their moral fabric and life choices. Therefore, ethics serve as a foundational element in ensuring educational environments are safe, respectful, and conducive to holistic student development.

References

• Anderson, R. (2019). Ethics and education: Reconceptualizing the relationship. Journal of Educational Ethics, 12(3), 45-58.
• Bowen, G. A. (2018). Law and ethics in education: Principles and practices. Educational Law Journal, 19(2), 101-115.
• Lovat, T., & Toomey, R. (2016). Values education and ethical practice in schools. Springer.
• National Education Association. (2020). Code of ethics for educators. Retrieved from https://www.nea.org/professional-excellence/ethics
• Schneider, M. (2014). Moral dimensions of teaching. Routledge.
• Shapiro, J. P., & Stefkovich, J. A. (2016). Ethical leadership and decision-making in education. Routledge.
• Smith, M. K. (2014). Ethics in education. In The encyclopedia of pedagogy and informal education.
• Tideman, T. (2017). Ethics and professionalism in education. Ethics and Education, 8(2), 157-169.
• Walker, M. (2018). The moral dimensions of teaching. Routledge.
• Young, I. M. (2017). Responsibility and ethics in education. Harvard Education Review, 87(2), 178-193.