This module is a resource for lecturers
Introduction
This Module introduces practical strategies for taking ethical action in the workplace (in the public or private sectors), university, community and in life more broadly. Acting ethically is often not easy. As discussed in Module 6 (Challenges to Ethical Living) and Module 8 (Behavioural Ethics) of the E4J Integrity and Ethics University Module Series, there are numerous psychological quirks and contextual pressures that often make it difficult to do the right thing. The present Module discusses several practical strategies that can help well-meaning people overcome at least some of these obstacles. The strategies explored in the Module go beyond merely raising awareness of the challenges and pitfalls that obstruct ethical behaviour. They are action-based approaches or methods that build capacity to act ethically. For example, the Module shows the extent to which script writing, action planning, rehearsal and peer coaching can help navigate challenging ethical situations even in circumstances that can lead ethical people to act in ways that contradict their genuine commitments. These action-based approaches draw on research and experience suggesting that capacity for ethical action can be built through training and good practice examples.
The Module is a resource for lecturers. It provides an outline for a three-hour class but can be used for shorter or longer sessions, or extended into a full-fledged course (see: Guidelines to develop a stand-alone course).
Learning outcomes
- Understand how to overcome common psychological and contextual impediments for taking ethical action
- Adopt strategies for taking ethical action that have been developed in different sectors and areas
- Craft, refine and deliver scripts for enacting ethical action and build the habit to do so
- Become more effective change agents
- Apply peer-coaching techniques around workplace ethics conflicts
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