Ethical Decision-Making Framework

Ethical Decision-Making Framework

Learning Objectives

At the end of the lesson you will be able to identify the moral problem within a given scenario. At the end of the lesson you will be able to recognize the stakeholders and analyze their interests. At the end of the lesson you will be able to apply different ethical theories to a moral problem. At the end of the lesson you will be able to critically reflect on the ethical decision-making process and its outcomes. At the end of the lesson you will be able to discuss the moral acceptability of actions based on ethical frameworks.

What do you already know about ethical decision-making?

Moral Problem Statement

The clear articulation of the ethical dilemma, including the actors and moral principles involved.

Problem Analysis

Identifying who must act and the moral considerations at play. Analysis of the stakeholders, their interests, and the relevant moral values, as well as any uncertainties or missing facts.

Options for Action

Considering possible actions, including black and white strategies, and other feasible options.

Ethical Judgment

Formed through the application of various ethical theories, including utilitarianism, Kantian ethics, virtue ethics, and care ethics.

Reflection

Critical reflection on the ethical theories and the moral acceptability of actions is critical to the process.

Definition List

Moral problem statement: The clear articulation of the ethical dilemma, including the actors and moral principles involved. Stakeholders: Individuals or groups with an interest or investment in the outcome of a moral dilemma. Utilitarianism: An ethical theory that advocates for actions that maximize overall happiness or utility. Kant's theory: An ethical framework based on the principles of universality and reciprocity, requiring that actions be universally applicable and treat others as ends in themselves. Virtue ethics: An ethical perspective that emphasizes the role of character and virtues in moral decision making. Care ethics: An approach to ethics that emphasizes interpersonal relationships and the importance of care in human life.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.