TPS3704 ASSIGNMENT 2 2026
DUE AUGUST 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1 Identify and analyse three ethical or professional breaches evident in the
extract. For each, explain why it is ethically problematic in the context of teaching
practice.
Humiliating a learner through a general remark
The student teacher made a general remark that learners who fail to submit their work
"lack discipline and commitment." Although Lerato was not named directly, the teacher
noticed that several classmates laughed and looked in her direction, which clearly
embarrassed her. This is ethically problematic because it violates the SACE Code of
Professional Ethics, which states that an educator "avoids any form of humiliation, and
refrains from any form of abuse, physical or psychological". Even though the remark
was not directed at Lerato by name, the teacher knew it would be understood by the
class as referring to her. This caused psychological harm and humiliation, which is a
clear breach of professional ethics. Teachers have a duty to create a safe and
supportive learning environment where all learners feel respected and valued. And
Making this remark, the teacher failed in this duty and damaged the trust relationship
with the learner.
Breach of confidentiality and privacy
, After class, the student teacher discussed Lerato's academic difficulties with another
student teacher in the corridor, where some learners could overhear the conversation.
This is a serious breach of confidentiality. The SACE Code clearly states that an
educator "respects the dignity, beliefs and constitutional rights of learners and in
particular children, which includes the right to privacy and confidentiality". Learners
have a constitutional right to privacy, and teachers must protect sensitive information
about learners. Such as discussing Lerato's academic struggles in a public space where
others could overhear, the teacher violated this right. This breach of confidentiality is
professionally unacceptable and undermines the trust that should exist between teacher
and learner. It also sets a bad example for other teachers and student teachers.
Unprofessional conduct on social media
The student teacher posted on social media expressing frustrations about learners:
"Some Grade 11 learners expect teachers to lower standards instead of putting in more
effort," and included a photo from the classroom showing learners. This is a serious
ethical breach for several reasons. First, the SACE Code states that educators must
"act in a proper and becoming way such that their behaviour does not bring the teaching
profession into disrepute". Posting negative comments about learners on social media
brings the teaching profession into disrepute and shows a lack of professionalism.
Second, sharing a photo of learners without their consent violates their right to privacy
and confidentiality. Even though no names were mentioned, the photo could allow
others to identify the learners. This behaviour is irresponsible and unprofessional, and it
damages the reputation of both the teacher and the teaching profession.
DUE AUGUST 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1 Identify and analyse three ethical or professional breaches evident in the
extract. For each, explain why it is ethically problematic in the context of teaching
practice.
Humiliating a learner through a general remark
The student teacher made a general remark that learners who fail to submit their work
"lack discipline and commitment." Although Lerato was not named directly, the teacher
noticed that several classmates laughed and looked in her direction, which clearly
embarrassed her. This is ethically problematic because it violates the SACE Code of
Professional Ethics, which states that an educator "avoids any form of humiliation, and
refrains from any form of abuse, physical or psychological". Even though the remark
was not directed at Lerato by name, the teacher knew it would be understood by the
class as referring to her. This caused psychological harm and humiliation, which is a
clear breach of professional ethics. Teachers have a duty to create a safe and
supportive learning environment where all learners feel respected and valued. And
Making this remark, the teacher failed in this duty and damaged the trust relationship
with the learner.
Breach of confidentiality and privacy
, After class, the student teacher discussed Lerato's academic difficulties with another
student teacher in the corridor, where some learners could overhear the conversation.
This is a serious breach of confidentiality. The SACE Code clearly states that an
educator "respects the dignity, beliefs and constitutional rights of learners and in
particular children, which includes the right to privacy and confidentiality". Learners
have a constitutional right to privacy, and teachers must protect sensitive information
about learners. Such as discussing Lerato's academic struggles in a public space where
others could overhear, the teacher violated this right. This breach of confidentiality is
professionally unacceptable and undermines the trust that should exist between teacher
and learner. It also sets a bad example for other teachers and student teachers.
Unprofessional conduct on social media
The student teacher posted on social media expressing frustrations about learners:
"Some Grade 11 learners expect teachers to lower standards instead of putting in more
effort," and included a photo from the classroom showing learners. This is a serious
ethical breach for several reasons. First, the SACE Code states that educators must
"act in a proper and becoming way such that their behaviour does not bring the teaching
profession into disrepute". Posting negative comments about learners on social media
brings the teaching profession into disrepute and shows a lack of professionalism.
Second, sharing a photo of learners without their consent violates their right to privacy
and confidentiality. Even though no names were mentioned, the photo could allow
others to identify the learners. This behaviour is irresponsible and unprofessional, and it
damages the reputation of both the teacher and the teaching profession.
