Prerequisite course for this course is: ET606E Education: Research Methodology, Research Ethics and Academic Writing II

The purpose of this course is for the student to develop a broad understanding of different central ethical theories and traditions. In addition, the purpose of the course is for the student to develops their ability to critically reflect on the ethical dimensions of education.

The course introduces central ethical traditions such as Ethics of care, Virtue ethics, utilitarianism and deontology. The course also encompasses opposing ideas on the relation between education and conceptions of human flourishing and the good life.

Upon completion of the course, the student should be able to

1. Explain and critically scrutinize different central ethical theories.

2. Analyze ethical dilemmas in educational processes using differing ethical theories.

3. Analyze discussions of human flourishing and the good life in historical and contemporary educational theory.

The course is based on regular lectures, seminars and practical exercises. There will be opportunities for feedback between the students throughout the course.

Written exam,7,5 credits. This test will examine all learning outcomes.

The course coordinator will provide information about grading criteria at the start of the course.

It must be possible to distinguish between individual performances for all assessments.

Aristotle (2020). The Nichomachean Ethics. London: Penguin Classics (100 pp. selection)

Kant, Immanuel (2019). Groundwork for the Metaphysics of Morals. Oxford: Oxford University Press (144 pp.)

Macintyre, Alasdair (2007). After Virtue. Notre Dame: University of Notre Dame Press (100 pp. selection)

Mill, John Stuart (2015). On Liberty, Utilitarianism and Other Essays. Oxford: Oxford University Press (100 pp. selection)

Noddings, Nel (2013). Caring: A Relational Approach to Ethics and Moral Education. Berkeley, CA: University of California Press (100 pp. selection)

Weil, Simone (2005). An Anthology. London: Penguin Classics (100 pp. selection)

Plus a selection of academic papers (approx. 100 pp.)

Students who participate in or complete a course must be given the opportunity to share their experiences and provide feedback on the course via a course evaluation issued by the University. The University will compile the course evaluations and provide information regarding the results and any measures taken as a result of the course evaluation. Results will be made available to the students. (Higher Education Ordinance 1:14).

Teaching is given in English.