User Guide

Cases studies present real-world scenarios in which ethical issues need to be identified, analyzed, and resolved. They are written from the perspective of individuals who are performing activities associated with their day to day work. Scenarios are derived from composites of real world events that have resulted ethical dilemmas for practicing professionals. The real events upon which these case studies are based have frequently resulted in major negative impacts on the individuals involved as well as the societies in which they work.

As you read and analyze case studies your reflective comments are invited on some or all of the following. As part of your analysis include information on the stakeholders and how they are impacted both positively and negatively.

1. What knowledge and skills are needed to implement sophisticated, appropriate and workable solutions to the complex global problems facing the world today?
2. What interdisciplinary perspectives would help identify innovative and non-obvious solutions?
3. What insights can you articulate, based your culture and other cultures with which you are familiar, to help understand your worldview and enable greater civic engagement?
4. What is your position on the right thing(s) to do?

There is a comment box at the end of each article. Reflect on the ethical issues in an article in a 200-500 word response. Try to organize and structure your response – don’t worry about spelling or grammar.

 Case Studies may be posted by Administrators and Featured Members. They must be approved before they appear. If you would like to contribute a Case Study please contact Dr. Roman Taraban or Dr. William Marcy

Featured articles provide background and perspectives that may be useful in analyzing and resolving ethical dilemmas. Featured Articles may be submitted by administrators or featured members. They must be approved before they appear. Administrators may invite featured members to write articles. If you would like to contribute a featured article please contact Dr. Roman Taraban or Dr. William Marcy

In making comments, you will be expressing opinions on ethical issues. Remember that invoking the phrase "in my opinion" as a preface to a statement is not sufficient to express a valid opinion.

Comments should be based on reflective choices citing ethical theories about the right thing to do to resolve ethical dilemmas. Whenever possible comments should apply the relevant canons from your discipline’s code of ethics.

Here are some basic guidelines to help you get the most out of participating in these forums:

Make your comments easy to read by keeping your comments short and to the point.

• Be considerate of your readers. ALL CAPS imply that you are shouting. Please do not do this.
• Remember this is written, not verbal communication. It easy to misinterpret someone's meaning online.
• Never “say” anything in a comment that you would not want published where anyone in the world can read it.
• Behave as you would in a face-to-face discussion with a friend or colleague.
• Remember there are real people reading your posts. Treat everyone with respect.
• Think about what you have written before you submit it.
• Always check your spelling and grammar.
• Inappropriate language, insults and harassment are not tolerated. Any comments that violate this rule will be deleted.