CODE OF ETHICS FOR THE TEACHING PROFESSION: PERCEPTIONS AND OPINIONS OF EDUCATORS

Abstract

The preparation to face dilemmatic situations in the relationship with students, colleagues and institutions is fundamental for the full performance of teaching activity. The present research aimed to analyze perceptions from opinions collected on the existence of a code of ethics for the teaching profession among teacher educators, teachers working in basic education and undegraduate students. The data were collected using a digital form, disseminated among the mentioned groups. The analysis indicated the lack of an instrument to guide the actions of teachers in the face of tough situations, not discussed in training courses and which are part of school routine. On the other hand, there is concern about who would develop this instrument and how it would be used by institutions. The results also indicate to the demand of undergraduates, teachers and teacher trainers for training processes that privilege aspects of guidance, reflection and decision-making in everyday school situations. The inclusion of these topics in teacher training courses is essential so that they can actively participate in the continuous construction of a possible code of ethics, or practices of reflection on the principles and values tha guide their profession. We argue that the presence of the theme “code of ethics” in teacher training curricula is essential, as trainees should be warned that their future attributions in daily work are not limited to teach, but also involve responsibilities arising from issues that emerge in context and from the impact of their decision on students, faculty and institutions.