Ethical Behaviour in the E-Classroom

This book covers ethical behaviour in the online classroom. Written for distance education students in higher education worldwide, the book serves as a guide for students in the e-classroom in examining ethical theories and behaviour. A number of salient questions are addressed: What is ethical? What does ethical behaviour consists of in an e-classroom? What are violations of ethics in the e-classroom? Students will have the opportunity to review real-life ethical dilemmas in the online classroom, state their positions by engaging in discussion, and reflect on the repercussions of unethical behaviour. The way students define ethical behaviour can impact how they engage with other online learners: students who view and react differently to the world may learn and respond differently. The book also explores opportunities for applied ethics, definitions of a successful online learner, and critical thinking concepts. - Presents real-life scenarios to allow the reader to understand the reality of ethical issues online - Includes the critical thinking circle, an original design by the author highlighting external and internal factors that influence adult students' ethical decision-making process - Written for the adult student to meet his or her degree goals in the online learning environment

Cassandra J. Smith works in distance education. She has been writing for more than 10 years, and has written online courses, web-based training materials, and worked as a news producer for an affiliate of a major US television network. In 2008 Cassandra wrote a facilitator's guide for online instructors, Who Let this Disaster in My Classroom.

Dedication List of figures Acknowledgements About the author Introduction to ethical behaviour in the e-classroom Course design Objectives Format Chapter 1: Assessing behaviour Abstract: Ethics definition What does "good behaviour mean? Ethics and e-classes Planning Carrying out Evaluating How does self-directed learning relate to ethics? Code of ethics Summary Chapter 2: Ethical theories and e-learning Abstract: Ethical theories Ethical theories and e-learning Ethical theories and moral character Summary Chapter 3: Processing thoughts: critical thinking Abstract: Critical thinking defined Critical thinking in e-learning Identifying and challenging assumptions Critical thinking and posing questions How do inferences and assumptions factor in critical thinking? Summary Chapter 4: Rules of conduct: plagiarism Abstract: Plagiarism defined Plagiarism in e-learning Citing sources Summary Chapter 5: Moral dilemmas online Abstract: Moral dilemmas Self-efficacy Students' unpreparedness issues Online excuses Summary Chapter 6: Transformative language: communication in e-learning Abstract: Transformative language Transforming language Online tone Ethical dilemmas in communication Conflict resolution Personality types Summary Chapter 7: Ethics boards: discussion responses Abstract: Discussion interaction Discussion question basic format Bloom's cognitive taxonomy Summary Chapter 8: Adhering to principles: researching Abstract: Research How to research How to write Grammar tips Written assignments - essays Reza Alice Sherman Discussion nightmares! What role does technology play? by McBride and Smith (April 2009) Summary Chapter 9: Critical thinking Abstract: Critical thinking and unethical decisions Case one Critical thinking and time management Critical thinking and discussions Critical thinking and essay development Critical thinking and ethics Internal factors External factors Summary Chapter 10: Ethical expectations: students Abstract: Ethical expectations Learning with a purpose Commitment to class Ethical disposition Motivation Tips for being a successful online student Summary Closing remarks References Index