Ethics Audit Of A Therapeutic Recreation Course

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to enhance awareness of the presence of ethics education within the allied health discipline of therapeutic recreation. To achieve this end, a curriculum audit was conducted in a therapeutic recreation course to determine the existence of ethics education within the course. Included topics, methods of delivery, and degree of student-initiation were all considered. Findings suggest the frequent presence of ethics content; however, an explicit connection between the course content and ethics was not always made. Discussion was found to be the main delivery method. Recommendations are discussed.

Uncovering the Moral Compass

“…Clearly, a single course, workshop or continuing education seminar then is not the ideal approach to ethics education if the goal of the process is to maximize individual knowledge and skills so that each student transfers their values and decision-making processes into solving the dilemmas encountered in professional practice. 5 By fully immersing oneself in selfdiscovery relative to ethical development through a progressive, integrated approach to ethics education that transcends each content course and practical/field experience, the student makes a conscious choice to engage in activities that promote ethical behaviors by connecting what they know about ethical theory and personal/ professional values. Intentional organization of learning opportunities is intended to promote the transfer of ethics learning to practice.…”