Overview
This lecture covers the Code of Ethics for Professional Teachers in the Philippines, focusing on teachers' relationships with the state, community, learners, parents, and colleagues, and their professional and ethical obligations.
Code of Ethics: General Overview
- The Code of Ethics applies to all licensed teachers in public or private schools, at all educational levels in the Philippines.
- There are 13 articles outlining teachers' responsibilities toward various stakeholders.
Article I: Scope and Limitation
- The Code applies to all individuals performing teaching and administrative functions, whether full-time or part-time.
Teacher and the State
- Teachers are custodians of national heritage and must promote patriotism, morality, and obedience to laws.
- Teachers should not promote political or religious interests or solicit funds for such purposes.
- Teachers must enjoy academic freedom but must observe the state's declared policies.
Teacher and the Community
- Teachers are facilitators of learning and must create environments conducive to growth.
- They should participate in community development and behave with dignity at all times.
- Teachers must understand local customs and lead intellectually, including providing counseling as needed.
- Teachers must respect other professions and maintain harmonious relations with officials.
Teacher and the Profession
- Teachers must show pride and enthusiasm in the profession and uphold the highest standards of quality education.
- Continuing Professional Education (CPE) is required for competence and global competitiveness.
- Teachers must use the profession to earn a decent living and avoid improper solicitation or self-promotion.
Teacher and Colleagues
- Teachers must cooperate, support, and maintain trust among colleagues.
- Due credit must be given for others' work, and confidential information must be respected.
- Professional grievances should be submitted in writing without violating rights.
Teacher and School Authorities
- Teachers must follow school policies and not make false accusations.
- They have the right to seek redress for injustices through proper channels.
- Promotions and appointments are based on merit and competence.
Teacher and Learners
- Teachers determine academic marks and promotion fairly and must not discriminate.
- No acceptance of favors or gifts in exchange for concessions.
- Learner evaluation must be based on merit and performance only.
- Professional discretion is required in any personal relationships with learners.
- Corporal punishment and unjust academic penalties are prohibited.
Teacher and Parents
- Teachers must maintain cordial relations with parents and keep them informed of learner progress.
- Parental complaints should be heard with understanding and unfair criticism discouraged.
Teacher and Business
- Teachers may engage in legitimate businesses if it does not affect their teaching duties.
- They must avoid conflicts of interest in the sale or purchase of school supplies.
Personal Conduct and Disciplinary Actions
- Teachers must uphold dignity, self-respect, and discipline in all situations.
- Violations of the Code may result in suspension, revocation of license, or other disciplinary actions.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Code of Ethics — Set of ethical and moral principles for teachers' professional conduct.
- Academic Freedom — The right to teach, research, and publish within state policies.
- Continuing Professional Education (CPE) — Ongoing professional development required for teachers.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the 13 articles of the Code of Ethics for Teachers in detail.
- Reflect on how to apply these ethical principles in hypothetical classroom or community situations.