Unit 1.3 Ethics and values

Introduction

In this Unit we will explore the differences between values, ethics and morals. Leaders have the power to change the organisational climate. They can influence the behaviour and actions of the members of the organisation by sharing and modelling their professional integrity.

One of the main challenges for the leader of an organisation is to gain the respect and trust of the people they lead and manage. If a leader flouts their own rules and demonstrates poor values and ethics, they will find it extremely difficult to gain and maintain loyalty and respect from their colleagues. People don’t know what to expect of a leader who isn’t consistent or not sure about the values and ethics they should be working by. It is only through clear and visible demonstration of values and ethics that effective leaders can thrive and develop successful schools.

As you study this Unit, you will be challenged to articulate and commit to your own personal and professional values and ethics.

Objectives

By the end of this Unit of study, you will be able to:

• articulate your personal and professional values;
• consider how to apply your ethics and values to your professional role.

Learning and practice outcomes

By the end of this Unit of study, you will:

• gain confidence in making decisions based on your ethics and values;
• produce (or review) a code of conduct for students in your school;
• explore how to share a code of conduct for staff in your school.

Implementation Task

Work with all your staff (or a group of staff) to create or review a code of conduct for your school, using the UNRWA workshop activities.