Ryan/Cooper, Those Who Can, Teach Eleventh Edition
Observation Guide
Chapter 8: What are the Ethical and Legal Issues Facing Teachers?
Everyday Ethics of Teaching
Observe a class, at any grade level, for one hour or class period.
Record evidence you see of the teacher’s commitment to ethical teaching:
1. What does the teacher do that reflects the level of caring he or she has for teaching and for students? (For example, does he or she hand back graded papers when promised? Does the teacher give their full attention to student questions and answer them seriously, or respond with sarcasm? What other behavior do you notice that reflects either a high or low level of caring?)
[[Please insert a few lines or a space to write in.]]
2. Describe the classroom climate. Do students seem to be working hard? Do they seem to be enjoying themselves? Do you notice any students who seem afraid to ask or answer questions, or participate in other ways? How do students treat each other?
[[Please insert a few lines or a space to write in.]]
3. Did any discussions of ethical values occur during your observation period? (Such conversations might occur during subject-matter lessons, for example if, while discussing a story, the teacher asked children if they thought a character’s actions were right or wrong.) If so, describe them.
[[Please insert a few lines or a space to write in.]]
Reflect on the following questions:
1. What kind of teacher behavior, in addition to what you observed, indicates to you that a teacher has a high or low level of caring for his or her students?
2. What would you, as a teacher, do to demonstrate your level of care?
3. How would you, as a teacher, include ethical discussions as part of your everyday curriculum?