TPS3704
Assignment 2 2026
Unique number:
Due Date: 2026
This document includes:
Helpful answers and guidelines
Detailed explanations and/ or calculations
References
Connect with the tutor on
+27 81 278 3372
, QUESTION 1
Public Humiliation and Lack of Sensitivity
One clear ethical concern in this situation is the teacher’s public statement that
learners who do not submit their work show a lack of discipline and commitment.
Even though Lerato’s name was not mentioned, it was obvious to the class who the
comment was about. This led to embarrassment and teasing from other learners. A
teacher carries the responsibility of creating a classroom space where every learner
feels respected and valued. When a learner is indirectly singled out in front of peers,
it can damage their confidence and emotional wellbeing.
In this case, the teacher did not take time to understand Lerato’s background or the
challenges she faces at home. Instead of asking questions or offering support, the
teacher assumed that her incomplete work was a result of poor attitude. This
response shows a lack of empathy and fairness. Inclusive education requires
teachers to recognise that learners come from different social and economic
backgrounds. When a teacher ignores these realities, it may cause the learner to
withdraw, lose motivation, and perform even worse academically. Research shows
that learners’ sense of belonging and emotional safety directly influences their
academic performance (Department of Basic Education, 2015). By publicly criticising
Lerato, the teacher weakened that sense of belonging.
Breach of Confidentiality
Another serious ethical issue is the discussion of Lerato’s academic struggles with a
student teacher in a public corridor. Other learners could easily overhear the
conversation. Teachers are trusted with sensitive personal and academic information
about learners. This information must be handled with care and shared only in
appropriate professional spaces.
When confidential information is discussed openly, it places the learner at risk of
further embarrassment and stigma. Confidentiality is not only a professional
expectation but also a foundation of trust between teachers and learners. If learners
believe that their struggles will be shared casually with others, they may hesitate to
seek help in the future. Professional ethical guidelines emphasise that educators
© Study Shack 2026. All rights Reserved +27 81 278 3372
, must protect the privacy and dignity of learners at all times (South African Council for
Educators, 2018). By failing to do so, the teacher damaged the trust that is essential
for a healthy learner teacher relationship.
Unprofessional Use of Social Media
The situation is made worse by the teacher’s decision to post a frustrated message
about learners on social media together with a classroom photograph. Even without
mentioning names, such a post reflects negatively on the learners and the school
community. Teachers are expected to maintain professional conduct both inside and
outside the classroom. Their actions on social media also form part of their
professional identity.
Publicly expressing frustration about learners shows poor judgement and lack of
professionalism. It can harm the reputation of the school and weaken parents’
confidence in the teacher. Sharing classroom photographs without clear consent
also raises serious privacy concerns. Ethical practice requires teachers to protect
learners’ dignity in all spaces, including digital platforms (South African Council for
Educators, 2018).
Failure to Demonstrate Empathy and Inclusivity
Lerato explained that she struggles to access data because she shares a phone with
her siblings. This information highlights the socio economic challenges many
learners in South Africa experience. Ignoring this reality and labelling her as
undisciplined shows a lack of understanding and compassion. Ethical teaching
involves recognising barriers to learning and working with the learner to find practical
solutions.
Instead of offering flexibility or alternative arrangements, the teacher chose criticism.
This response does not reflect the principles of fairness and inclusive support
promoted in South African education policy (Department of Basic Education, 2015).
Teachers must adapt their approaches to meet learners’ diverse needs.
Creating a Hostile Learning Environment
© Study Shack 2026. All rights Reserved +27 81 278 3372
Assignment 2 2026
Unique number:
Due Date: 2026
This document includes:
Helpful answers and guidelines
Detailed explanations and/ or calculations
References
Connect with the tutor on
+27 81 278 3372
, QUESTION 1
Public Humiliation and Lack of Sensitivity
One clear ethical concern in this situation is the teacher’s public statement that
learners who do not submit their work show a lack of discipline and commitment.
Even though Lerato’s name was not mentioned, it was obvious to the class who the
comment was about. This led to embarrassment and teasing from other learners. A
teacher carries the responsibility of creating a classroom space where every learner
feels respected and valued. When a learner is indirectly singled out in front of peers,
it can damage their confidence and emotional wellbeing.
In this case, the teacher did not take time to understand Lerato’s background or the
challenges she faces at home. Instead of asking questions or offering support, the
teacher assumed that her incomplete work was a result of poor attitude. This
response shows a lack of empathy and fairness. Inclusive education requires
teachers to recognise that learners come from different social and economic
backgrounds. When a teacher ignores these realities, it may cause the learner to
withdraw, lose motivation, and perform even worse academically. Research shows
that learners’ sense of belonging and emotional safety directly influences their
academic performance (Department of Basic Education, 2015). By publicly criticising
Lerato, the teacher weakened that sense of belonging.
Breach of Confidentiality
Another serious ethical issue is the discussion of Lerato’s academic struggles with a
student teacher in a public corridor. Other learners could easily overhear the
conversation. Teachers are trusted with sensitive personal and academic information
about learners. This information must be handled with care and shared only in
appropriate professional spaces.
When confidential information is discussed openly, it places the learner at risk of
further embarrassment and stigma. Confidentiality is not only a professional
expectation but also a foundation of trust between teachers and learners. If learners
believe that their struggles will be shared casually with others, they may hesitate to
seek help in the future. Professional ethical guidelines emphasise that educators
© Study Shack 2026. All rights Reserved +27 81 278 3372
, must protect the privacy and dignity of learners at all times (South African Council for
Educators, 2018). By failing to do so, the teacher damaged the trust that is essential
for a healthy learner teacher relationship.
Unprofessional Use of Social Media
The situation is made worse by the teacher’s decision to post a frustrated message
about learners on social media together with a classroom photograph. Even without
mentioning names, such a post reflects negatively on the learners and the school
community. Teachers are expected to maintain professional conduct both inside and
outside the classroom. Their actions on social media also form part of their
professional identity.
Publicly expressing frustration about learners shows poor judgement and lack of
professionalism. It can harm the reputation of the school and weaken parents’
confidence in the teacher. Sharing classroom photographs without clear consent
also raises serious privacy concerns. Ethical practice requires teachers to protect
learners’ dignity in all spaces, including digital platforms (South African Council for
Educators, 2018).
Failure to Demonstrate Empathy and Inclusivity
Lerato explained that she struggles to access data because she shares a phone with
her siblings. This information highlights the socio economic challenges many
learners in South Africa experience. Ignoring this reality and labelling her as
undisciplined shows a lack of understanding and compassion. Ethical teaching
involves recognising barriers to learning and working with the learner to find practical
solutions.
Instead of offering flexibility or alternative arrangements, the teacher chose criticism.
This response does not reflect the principles of fairness and inclusive support
promoted in South African education policy (Department of Basic Education, 2015).
Teachers must adapt their approaches to meet learners’ diverse needs.
Creating a Hostile Learning Environment
© Study Shack 2026. All rights Reserved +27 81 278 3372
