Social Pedagogy and Ethics

This chapter aims to answer three key questions: Do we have a shared view of ethical practice? What are the values that underpin ethical practice? And, What are our ethical responsibilities as pedagogues? In it I discuss the problematic nature of being an ethical pedagogue in a post-modern world where there has been a move away from both absolute and relative morality. I propose that social pedagogy can provide an anchor in this context, as it aims to support marginalised others to develop skills to empower themselves and tackle social injustice. I explain how social pedagogy is a practice and a perspective, requiring pedagogues’ behaviour to be underpinned by their personal values. The social pedagogical term ‘Haltung’ is introduced as a conceptual framework for aligning our practice with our values. And another social pedagogy concept, the Three Ps (the professional, the personal and the private self), is proposed as a tool to develop ethical, authentic relationships with others. In this chapter I suggest that pedagogues should adopt Life World Orientation to support children and families to effect change in line with their hopes for a more fulfilling existence, which requires deep understanding and a non-judgemental stance. Finally, I reflect on ethical leadership and how the social pedagogy model of The Learning Zone can be used as a means of reflection in social pedagogical leadership, avoiding the frequently dissatisfying implementation of person-specification reviews.