Ethics, Moral Development and Professionalism in Environmental Health

About Course

Course Description

This course has been accreditated by the HPCSA for 20 ethical Points and 5 clinical points (Accreditation number: EHP 001/02/01/2025). It focuses on the ethical considerations and standards that guide Environmental Health practitioners, exploring real-world dilemmas and best practices for upholding professionalism in the field.

Learning Objectives

Explore foundational ethics and moral development principles within environmental health, examining theories and frameworks that elucidate ethical dilemmas and moral decision-making processes.

Investigate the intersection of environmental health with ethical considerations, including issues of environmental justice, equity, and responsibility towards future generations.

Analyze case studies and real-world scenarios to critically evaluate ethical conflicts and dilemmas in environmental health, discerning between different perspectives and stakeholders’ interests.

Develop an in-depth understanding of the complexities surrounding ethical decision-making in environmental health, considering cultural, social, and economic factors that influence perceptions of right and wrong.

Apply ethical reasoning and moral development theories to propose ethically sound solutions and policies for addressing environmental health challenges, fostering responsible stewardship of natural resources and promoting social justice.

Who is this Course for

Environmental Health Practitioners in all spheres of government and the private sector.

Course Content

Introduction
Let me invite you to my worldview of ethics. I hope this offering will expand your knowledge and view of ethics in Environmental Health. We face ethical dilemmas daily, and reflexive practitioners must fully understand the strategies for navigating the challenges. Welcome, fellow Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs)! Settle in and prepare for a whirlwind tour through our field's murky waters of ethics. If you've ever found yourself caught in the crosshairs of an ethical dilemma or perhaps taking the scenic route during a not-so-productive day (we've all been there), this course is just what you need. We'll dive deep into the labyrinth of ethical decision-making and emerge as shining examples of integrity and accountability. From being manhandled and threatened to those all-too-human moments of laziness, we’ve all faced situations that challenge our ethical compass. The beauty of this course lies in its ability to rejuvenate your commitment to ethical practice. It's time to dust off those cobwebs and reignite the passion that brought you to this profession in the first place. Together, we'll explore the strategies and tools needed to tackle ethical challenges head-on, ensuring that we always consider the consequences of our actions. Remember, ethics isn't just about ticking boxes or following rules—it's about understanding the impact of our decisions on the people and environment around us. This course will enlighten you, providing fresh perspectives and practical insights to help you navigate the complex world of environmental health with integrity. So, let's embark on this journey together and strive to be the ethical champions our communities deserve!

Introduction

Module 1
Ethics and professionalism are pivotal components of any vocation, embodying the principles and standards that govern conduct within the workplace or a profession in general. Ethical behaviour entails adhering to moral values such as honesty, integrity, and fairness, which ensure trust and respect among colleagues and clients alike. Professionalism, on the other hand, involves demonstrating competence, reliability, and a commitment to continuous improvement. It encompasses a respectful demeanour, effective communication, and adherence to industry standards and best practices. Together, ethics and professionalism foster a positive work environment and bolster an organisation’s reputation and success.

Module 2
Ethical governance, professionalism, and public service are foundational to a well-functioning society. Ethical governance ensures that decisions and policies are made with integrity, transparency, and accountability, fostering trust between the government and its citizens. Professionalism in public service involves adhering to high standards of competence, fairness, and respect, ensuring that public servants act as exemplary stewards of public resources and authority. Together, these principles create a robust framework for serving the public good, promoting social justice, and enhancing the quality of life for all community members.

Module 3

Course Assessment
This assessment is aimed at evaluating your understanding of the concepts learnt. There are 61 questions, however you can only answer 40 questions. Please complete the quiz below.