ISSUES AND ETHICAL PRACTICES

Questions on Issues Are these actually issues? In what ways are they issues for members of your group? What causes these issues? What are possible solutions to these issues? What issues are not on this list that should be there?

Ethical Behaviour for EAs In order to practice ethical behavior, an EA: demonstrates respect for children and adults. abides by educational policies, procedures, programs of study, and guidelines specified by educators, administrators, school districts and the Ministry of Education. demonstrates responsible use of time and resources. demonstrates ethical and confidential conduct at school and in the community. manages concerns in the appropriate manner e.g. consult with a teacher first, principal next etc. participates in personal and professional development training.

Ethical Behaviour (cont.) demonstrates reflective practice. follows instructions of the professional.  models punctuality, good attendance and exemplary communication skills and generally acts as a role model. exercises good judgment and integrity. demonstrates the ability to separate personal issues from one’s responsibilities. behaves in a manner that clearly reflects an understanding of the role of the EA in relationship to teachers, parents and students.  

Practicing Ethics The first rule is to do no harm to students. Ethical practice means being a role model. Ethical practice requires confidentiality. Ethics require consideration of differing viewpoints. Ethical practice means setting high standards an expectations.

Consultation with Families Benefits of Meaningful Consultation Avoid angst Keep everyone solution focused Maintain mutual respect Proactively avoid future problems Avoid wasted time Find the best possible successful solution for the child Risks of Not Engaging in Meaningful Consultation Ongoing difficulty—problems solved without consultation tend to resurface Growing anger and resentment that may make subsequent consultation difficult Loss of credibility and trust Inaction  Barriers to Meaningful Consultation Consultation fatigue Judgment, or a culture of blame Fear of change (leads to defensiveness) Use of emails that have the potential for misunderstanding Time pressures  

Dos and Don’ts for Education Assistants The EA may: The EA may not : Be part of the collaborative team Act independently Be given specific instruction and management tasks under the direction of a teacher Be given primary responsibility for instruction and management tasks Score objective tests and assignments and keep appropriate records for teachers Be responsible for assigning grades or marking subjective or essay tests Help the teacher supervise an arrange field trips Take full responsibility for arranging and supervising field trips Be involved in team meetings about a specific student Be assigned to attend meetings with other staff or parents in lieu of the teacher.