As future educators, teacher trainees at Foso College of Education are expected to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct. This Code of Conduct outlines the ethical principles, behavioral expectations, and professional standards that all students must adhere to throughout their educational journey and practical training experiences.
Core Ethical Principles
All teacher trainees are expected to demonstrate these core ethical principles in all aspects of their college life:
Demonstrate honesty, fairness, and truthfulness in all academic and professional activities. Avoid deception, misrepresentation, or falsification in any form.
Show respect for the dignity, rights, and values of all individuals including students, faculty, staff, and community members. Value diversity and demonstrate cultural sensitivity.
Take responsibility for your actions and their consequences. Fulfill professional commitments diligently and timely.
Treat all individuals fairly and equitably. Avoid discrimination and ensure equal opportunities for all students.
Demonstrate compassion, empathy, and concern for the welfare and development of students. Create a nurturing learning environment.
Academic Integrity Policy
Maintaining academic honesty is fundamental to the teaching profession. The following behaviors constitute academic dishonesty:
Presenting someone else's work, ideas, or words as your own without proper acknowledgment. This includes:
- Copying another student's work
- Using unauthorized materials during examinations
- Submitting work done by others as your own
- Failing to properly cite sources in academic papers
Any attempt to gain unfair advantage in academic evaluation, including:
- Unauthorized collaboration on individual assignments
- Using prohibited materials during exams
- Sharing exam questions or answers with others
- Tampering with academic records
Inventing or falsifying information in academic exercises, including:
- Creating false data for research projects
- Citing non-existent sources
- Falsifying practicum or field experience records
All teacher trainees must:
- Submit original work for all assignments
- Properly acknowledge all sources using approved citation styles
- Follow examination rules and regulations
- Report observed incidents of academic dishonesty
- Seek clarification when uncertain about academic integrity policies
Professional Behavior Expectations
As future educators, teacher trainees are expected to demonstrate professional behavior at all times:
Classroom Conduct
- Attend all classes punctually and regularly
- Participate actively and respectfully in class discussions
- Use electronic devices appropriately during instructional time
- Maintain appropriate decorum during lectures and presentations
Dress Code
Teacher trainees must maintain professional appearance that reflects the dignity of the teaching profession:
- Business casual attire during regular class days
- Professional dress during practicum experiences and formal events
- Clothing should be neat, clean, and appropriate for educational settings
- Appearance should not disrupt the learning environment
Digital Conduct
Appropriate behavior in digital spaces and social media:
- Use college technology resources responsibly and ethically
- Maintain professional boundaries in electronic communications
- Refrain from posting inappropriate content about the college, staff, or students
- Respect copyright and intellectual property laws in digital spaces
Practicum Professionalism
During teaching practicum experiences, trainees must:
- Arrive punctually and prepared for all teaching assignments
- Maintain confidentiality regarding student information
- Follow school policies and procedures at placement sites
- Demonstrate respect for cooperating teachers and school staff
- Dress appropriately for the school environment
Disciplinary Procedures
Violations of the Code of Conduct will be addressed through the following procedures:
Reporting Process
- Any community member may report suspected violations
- Reports should be submitted to the Dean of Students Office
- Anonymous reporting options are available
- Retaliation against reporters is strictly prohibited
Investigation Process
- Preliminary review by the disciplinary committee
- Opportunity for the accused student to respond to allegations
- Collection of evidence and witness statements
- Formal hearing if sufficient evidence exists
Possible Sanctions
Depending on the severity of the violation, sanctions may include:
- Formal warning
- Academic penalty (grade reduction, assignment resubmission)
- Probationary status
- Suspension from college activities
- Temporary suspension from the college
- Permanent dismissal from the teacher education program
Appeal Process
- Students may appeal disciplinary decisions within 10 business days
- Appeals must be submitted in writing to the Academic Affairs Committee
- Appeal decisions are final
Confidentiality Policy
Teacher trainees must maintain strict confidentiality regarding student information:
- Keep all student records and information confidential
- Discuss student information only with authorized personnel
- Store student records securely
- Follow college and school policies regarding data protection
- Never share student information on social media or unauthorized platforms
Social Media Guidelines
As role models, teacher trainees must exercise caution in their social media use:
- Maintain professional boundaries in all online interactions
- Avoid posting inappropriate content that could reflect poorly on the teaching profession
- Do not identify students or schools by name in social media posts
- Use privacy settings appropriately but assume all content may become public
- Remember that digital content is permanent and searchable
Teacher Trainee Pledge
"I pledge to uphold the ethical standards of the teaching profession, to act with integrity in all my academic pursuits, to treat all individuals with respect and dignity, to maintain confidentiality of student information, and to dedicate myself to the development of knowledge and skills necessary for excellence in teaching. I understand that as a teacher trainee, I am a representative of Foso College of Education and the teaching profession at all times."
I acknowledge that I have read, understood, and agree to abide by the Foso College of Education Code of Conduct.
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