ETHICS AND PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

Ethics is the art of making wise and responsible decisions. A student service professional should adhere to the professional code of ethics. Sometimes, there is a conflict between the rules, ethical values and the personal conscience. The best approach, student affairs staff are required to consider the organization ethical code of conduct when faced with ethical dilemmas and problems at work. Sometimes it calls to take unpopular stands.

Professional standards are used to measure the quality of work. These standards are applicable in student services too. The most fascinating issue about standards is the issue of continuous improvement. Since the profession is on the move, the staff should be innovative and creative in establishing new standards. This is looking on how to reach students better. Moreover, the bar of standards should be set high and attainable. This will result into effectiveness and efficiency in matters concerning student affairs. In addition, let the students give suggestions for areas that need to be improved. They are ones who receive the services and they might see better. Then the student affairs staff can evaluate and take the best suggestions for implementation. Definitely, This will help in the improvement process.

Professional associations are considered the expert arena. Its the place where student services professionals meet to discuss their work and challenges. As you know a man is no Island. Every professional is interdependent. We learn from each other. Thus, it requires every professional to attend meeting and student service conferences. Workshops and associations are important to sharpen the skills of the workers. It is an opportunity to learn more so as to perform better.