Shortcircuit Ethical Problem Scenarios

524 Week 12

3. Struggling School.

In any workplace, there are difficult decisions that must be made and this is certainly true as an instructional designer. However, instructional designers in particular have a responsibility to the AECT: Code of Professional Ethics (or other professional organization) in regards to professional relationships; it is not in the nature of the work to make unethical decisions simply because it may displease the client(s). According to Section 3, #8, of the AECT: Code of Professional Ethics, [Instructional Designers] shall inform users of the stipulations and interpretations of the copyright law and other laws affecting the profession and encourage compliance (aect.org, 2007). In a case like this, the best option would be to present information to the client, in an ethical manner that is respectful to them and all parties within their organization. For example, instead of stating their faults, the instructional designer can provide constructive criticism, which includes instruction on how to obtain an educational software license at a discounted price. If the client chooses to disregard the instructional designers recommendations, then it is the responsibility of the instructional designer to take further action. The code clearly states that an ID must not only inform their clients of the nuances regarding copyright infringement, but also encourage them to stay within the guidelines of the law. If there is not an option to purchase the software licenses at a discounted price, the next step is to find an organization that will sponsor or pay for the software licenses. Many software companies (Techsoup, journeyEd, software manufacturers) offer discounts and sometimes free licenses for poor non-profits or offer grant or in-kind gifts of software for schools and nonprofits.

5. Realistic Recycling.

As an experienced designer, there will be times where the program to be designed is similar to one previously created. While it is tempting to recycle materials it is important to note that each situation is different and requires a unique solution. In this particular case, though, this situation

is a matter of equitable fairness to the Blue Circle Pharmaceutical Company who owns the rights to presentation of this course, not the designer. Since the company is the owner of the design and development, which includes all materials implemented within their presentation it is not an option for the designer to reuse those materials. According to Section 2, #5, of the AECT: Code of Professional Ethics, [Instructional Designers] shall engage in fair and equitable practices with those rendering service to the profession (aect.org, 2007). For this reason, it will be in the instructional designers best interest to develop new materials. A realistic option for the instructional designer in this situation, would be to create another course. How to Implement Intranet Training seems to be a hot topic in the workplace, so it would be wise as an instructional designer to create and provide this course to various organizations/companies without giving them total ownership. Overall, because the material is similar to what was already developed, the instructional designer can likely rework the course in less time, decreasing billable hours.

Group Member/ Role David Collins - Coordinator Kelley Buell - Elaborator Alex Vlez - Recorder Lisa Ziska-Marchand - Explorer

Task Question 1 Question 2 Question 3 Question 4