STUDY GUIDECHAPTER 8: WHAT ARE

THE ETHICAL AND LEGAL ISSUES

FACING TEACHERS?
Completing this study guide will help you prepare for the major topic areas on an exam;
however, it does not cover every piece of information found in the chapter or the test questions.
1. Explain the difference between the law and ethics.
Ethics: Not Written (Right vs. Wrong)
Laws: Written (Right vs. Wrong)
2. What are the six characteristics of ethical teaching?
Appreciation for moral deliberation
Empathy
Knowledge
Reasoning
Courage
Interpersonal Skills
3. Define the following terms:
Due process: persons right to receive fair and equal protection.
Tenure: permanent employment: protecting teachers from dismissal without adequate cause.
Liability: a legal obligation.
Academic freedom: to teach about an issue without fear of penalty
Corporal punishment: physical punishment
Probable cause: substantial reason
Sexual harassment: unwanted and unwelcome sexual attention that interferes with ones life.
4. What does the Buckley Amendment establish?
Outlines who has the right to see your records. Parents may not however see unofficial
records.
5. How do a school administrators search and seizure rights differ from those of a law
enforcement officer?
6. What guidelines would you give to a new teacher based on recent Supreme Court rulings on
teachers rights regarding personal appearance, right to free speech, and personal sexual
behavior?
Free Speech: Cannot interfere with operation of schools. Students right can be limited.
Symbolic Expression: Can be limited if disruptive to school.
Academic Freedom: Not absolute.

7. What are a licensed teachers responsibilities regarding the reporting of child abuse?
You Must Reported
You dont have to be certain
If you suspect and decide not to report, you will get in trouble.
Reporting is kept confidential!
8. Briefly summarize copyright provisions for print, video, and software resources.
Follow copyright laws! (Textbook, Computer Software)
9. Describe the three guidelines teachers should keep in mind when dealing with student
behavior that might lead to suspension or expulsion.
Documentation-students must be notified orally or in writing of the nature of their offense
and the intended punishment
Explanation the school must give a clear explanation of the evidence
Opportunity to defend oneself- students must have the chance to refute charges before a fair
and impartial decision maker
10. Describe three or four basic guidelines for the interface between religion and education.
Flag- cannot require students to salute or stand for the flag salute
Bible- we cannot promote worship
Prayer- cannot be a regular part of the school day
Worship Services- schools cannot promote
11. Give examples of how students rights may be abridged by their status as students.
Search and Seizure
Freedom of Speech