Mission, History and Rationale
"The purpose of the Model Code of Ethics for Educators (MCEE) is to serve as a shared ethical guide for future and current educators faced with the complexities of P-12 education. The code establishes principles for ethical best practice, mindfulness, self-reflection and decision-making, setting the groundwork for self-regulation and self-accountability. The establishment of this professional code of ethics by educators for educators honors the public trust and upholds the dignity of the profession." Read more below and then proceed to the MCEE Video Series. More information about the Model Code of Ethics can be found on the NASDTEC website.
The Model Code of Ethics does not replace the Arkansas Code of Ethics but can be used as a set of standards to help guide "ethical best practice, mindfulness, self-reflection and decision-making." Teacher candidates should always defer to the Arkansas Code of Ethics and district polices when defining appropriate conduct and professional practice.
Suggestions for using the Model Code of Ethics videos and materials: Since the MCEE (Model Code of Ethics for Educators) is meant to serve as a set of standards and principles for decision making, teacher candidates can explore and review the video segments at different points in their academic career. Each video segment contains a discussion guide and transcript. Instructors may want to use MCEE video segments 1-3 to provide an overview of educator ethics and decision making and then follow with the Arkansas Code of Ethics standards. The MCEE videos and discussion guide prompts can also serve as supplemental material for candidates needing additional support with decision making.
Video Segment 1: Exploring Professional Risks (7 minutes, 16 seconds) addresses the many decisions that educators make every day. This video introduces the idea of "mitigating risk" and the unintended consequences that can result. This video is suitable for introductory level through upper level courses.
Video Segment 2: Exploring Professional Ethics (10 minutes, 08 seconds) discusses examples of professional risk and "blind spots" for educators. It also differentiates the MCEE from a state's code of ethics. This video is suitable for introductory level through upper level courses.
Video Segment 3: Exploring the Model Code of Ethics for Educators (6 minutes, 12 seconds) introduces the MCEE as a tool to navigate the complexities of the profession by presenting each standard. This video is suitable for introductory level through upper level courses.
Video Segment 4: Exploring Applications (17 minutes, 12 seconds) presents scenarios and educator discussion on the application of the MCEE. This video is suitable for teacher candidates in upper level courses or internship.
Video Segment 5: Exploring Solutions (3 minutes, 37 seconds) summarizes the impact that the MCEE has on decision making for educators in the video segments prior. This video is suitable for teacher candidates in upper level courses or internship.