Ethical considerations in deciding when to reopen schools. (May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hawk, William J.; Spielberg, Frederick; Ressler, Everett; Aguilar, Pilar
• Is Part Of: International journal of educational development. Volume 83(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-05
• Subjects: Ethical reasoning -- Applied ethics -- Covid-19 -- Schools -- Reopening schools -- Pandemic; Education -- Periodicals; Education -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Education -- Economic aspects -- Periodicals; Education -- Periodicals; Éducation -- Périodiques; Education; Periodicals; 370.11
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijedudev.2021.102398
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0738-0593

Abstract

Highlights: Pandemic-disrupted education requires tough decisions about reopening schools. Reopening schools is fundamentally an ethical issue. Using an ethical reasoning strategy reveals hidden assumptions on school reopening. The "Eight Key Questions" offers a strategy for school reopening decisions. The "Eight Key Questions" offers decision-makers a way to address future issues. Abstract: In the midst of a global pandemic, policy makers in the education sector face a complex dilemma regarding the reopening of schools, closed around the world as an initial public health measure. The authors propose the use of an ethical strategy—the Eight Key Questions—to clarify the issues involved in decision-making. While every context is unique, the adoption of this investigative process and ethical litmus test may help clarify the trade-offs in health, education, protection, social services, economic productivity and the best interests of the child.