International Council for Education, Research and Training

Exploring the Ethical Challenges Faced by Teacher Educators in Nigeria: Perceptions and Implications for Guidance and Counseling Programmes

Chinwendu, Obasi Samuel

Department of Guidance and Counseling, College of Education, Michael Okpara University, Agriculture, Umudike Abia State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study, “Exploring the Ethical Challenges Faced by Teacher Educators in Nigeria: Perceptions and Implications for Guidance and Counseling Programmes,” investigated the perceptions of 327 teacher educators (136 from MOUAU and 191 from AIFUE) regarding ethical challenges and the adequacy of existing guidance and counseling programmes in addressing ethical challenges, their experiences in navigating ethical dilemmas related to academic dishonesty, equity, and professional boundaries, and the ethical frameworks and decision-making models they consider most beneficial for enhancing their ethical practices. The study employed a descriptive research design and utilized a questionnaire as the data collection instrument. The findings revealed that teacher educators believe the existing guidance and counseling programmes adequately address ethical issues. Still, they need more regular training and workshops to develop their ethical decision-making skills. The teacher educators have encountered various ethical challenges, but feel confident in their ability to navigate them. They also consider ethical frameworks and decision-making models, such as deontological, consequentialist, and virtue ethics, as beneficial for enhancing their ethical practices. One key recommendation is the implementation of regular training and workshops for teacher educators on ethical decision-making skills to address the identified gap in the existing guidance and counseling programmes.

Keywords: Ethical Challenges, Teacher Educators,  Nigeria, Perceptions,  Implications  Guidance and Counseling  Programmes 

Impact Statement

The paper “Exploring the Ethical Challenges Faced by Teacher Educators in Nigeria: Perceptions and Implications for Guidance and Counseling Programmes” by Obasi Samuel Chinwendu has the potential to make a significant impact in the field of education, particularly in Nigeria and other similar contexts. Here are some reasons why:

Contribution to the field of education: The paper sheds light on the often-overlooked ethical challenges faced by teacher educators in Nigeria, which is a critical component of the educational system. By exploring these challenges, the paper contributes to the existing body of knowledge on teacher education and provides valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and researchers.

Relevance to the Nigerian context: The paper’s focus on Nigeria, a country with a complex educational system, makes it highly relevant to the local context. The findings and recommendations can inform policy decisions, teacher education programs, and guidance and counseling services in Nigeria, ultimately leading to improved educational outcomes.

Global implications: Although the paper is situated in Nigeria, the ethical challenges faced by teacher educators are universal and applicable to other countries with similar cultural, political, and institutional contexts. The paper’s findings can inform educational policies and practices globally, particularly in countries with similar challenges.

Methodological significance: The study’s use of a descriptive research design and a questionnaire as a data collection instrument provides a rigorous and systematic approach to exploring the perceptions of teacher educators. This methodology can be replicated in other contexts, allowing for comparisons and generalizability of findings.

Practical applications: The paper’s recommendations, such as the implementation of regular training and workshops for teacher educators on ethical decision-making skills, have practical applications in the field. These recommendations can be used to develop targeted interventions, training programs, and guidance and counseling services that address the ethical challenges faced by teacher educators.

Interdisciplinary relevance: The paper’s exploration of ethical challenges in teacher education intersects with other fields, such as psychology, sociology, and philosophy. The findings can inform research and practice in these fields, demonstrating the paper’s interdisciplinary relevance.

Potential for citation and influence: Given the paper’s originality, relevance, and methodological rigor, it has the potential to be widely cited and influential in the field of education and beyond. The paper’s findings and recommendations can inform future research, policy decisions, and educational practices, leading to a significant impact on the field.

 

In conclusion, the paper “Exploring the Ethical Challenges Faced by Teacher Educators in Nigeria: Perceptions and Implications for Guidance and Counseling Programmes” has the potential to make a significant impact in the field of education, particularly in Nigeria and other similar contexts. Its contributions to the field, relevance to the local context, global implications, methodological significance, practical applications, interdisciplinary relevance, and potential for citation and influence all contribute to its potential impact factor.

About Author

Dr. Obasi Samuel Chinwendu is a distinguished academic, author, and spiritual leader with a profound commitment to education, counseling, and ministry. He holds a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) in Guidance and Counselling and Public Administration, as well as a Master of Education (M.Ed) in Guidance and Counselling, both from the prestigious University of Ibadan (UI). His academic journey culminated in a Ph.D. in Guidance and Counselling from Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), solidifying his expertise in the field.

Since 2011, Dr. Chinwendu has served as a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Guidance and Counselling at the College of Education (COED), MOUAU, where he has made significant contributions to the academic and personal development of his students. His dedication to the teaching profession is further reflected in his active membership in the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and other professional bodies, including the National Teachers’ Institute (NTI).

Beyond academia, Dr. Chinwendu is a called, anointed, and ordained preacher, serving as the Senior Pastor at United Believers Mission Inc. His spiritual leadership extends to his involvement in the United Umuahia Ministers Prayer Squad, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN). Through these platforms, he has touched countless lives with his messages of faith, hope, and empowerment.

A prolific author, Dr. Chinwendu has written several books and magazines, sharing his insights on counseling, spirituality, and personal growth. His work has reached a global audience through his prominent presence on YouTube and Facebook under the handles Endtimeatlast and Endtimeatlastbroadcast, where he continues to inspire and educate through his teachings and broadcasts.

 

Dr. Obasi Samuel Chinwendu is a multifaceted individual whose contributions to education, counseling, and ministry have left an indelible mark on his community and beyond. His unwavering dedication to his professions and faith exemplifies his commitment to uplifting others and making a lasting impact in the world.

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