Professional Competence and Conduct
OSCA Ethical Guidelines 2009
Ethical Principles
- The understanding that professional growth continues throughout the career.
- The professional development is a commitment made by a counsellor.
- Counsellors need to continue to develop their professional portfolio.
Illustrative Case #1
A peer-helping program is developed at the host school with the intention of sharing the process with other schools. This is an acceptable case of professional competence because in the field of teaching, sharing information and resources is a key element of the vocation.
Illustrative Case #2
A counsellor initiates a staff directed meeting to roll out a new initiative for the school. The initiative is done through 21C processes to enhance the message. This is an acceptable case because it continues in the vein of professional development, whereas an educator passes on their knowledge to colleagues.
Legally Speaking
Teachers are viewed as life long learners and need to show this to students as an example. In participation of individual and collaborative programs, an educator will be growing professional in order to provide the most current and applicable practice to students. Professional growth is an integral part of the career and should be taken seriously. Professional growth is also job-embedded as well as self directed.