Conduct Unbecoming? Teacher Professionalism, Ethical Codes, and Shifting Social Expectations

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37119/ojs2021.v26i2.476

Abstract

In this paper, we share findings from a historical investigation into changing expectations regarding teacher conduct as connected to the evolving Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation Code of Ethics and the eventual proclamation of a Government-mandated teacher regulatory board. This study was based on the idea that views of appropriate conduct embedded in ethical codes evolve in relation to shifting societal norms and values. We demonstrate that the tone and content of ethical codes of conduct for Saskatchewan teachers transformed from explicit and concrete to abstract and ambiguous.

            Keywords: conduct unbecoming; code of ethics; teacher regulation; teaching profession

Author Biographies

Natasha Cochran, University of Saskatchewan

Natasha Cochran recently graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Saskatchewan. She is presently employed with the Sun West School Division as an administrator.

Lynn Lemisko, University of Saskatchewan

Lynn Lemisko is a professor in the department of educational foundations at the University of Saskatchewan. She also is the Department Head of Educational Psychology and Special Education.

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Published

2021-06-03

Issue

Vol. 26 No. 2 (2021): Spring 2021

Section

Articles

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