3b. Discuss the ethical issues suggested by the following scenarios Joan is presented with the dilemma of interpreting data differently to push a program she believed in or showcasing the data as-is and possibly losing funding for the program. The data determines the effectiveness of a national pre-school learning program. As a national program, this means that the actions of Joan can affect a large portion of society's younger minds and their education. What issues discussed in class are related to the situations and what ethical theories can be applied and how?: This ties into the class topic of professionals where one's roles and responsibilities can differentiate a professional from others. Joan Garrison is a professional hired due to attributes to collect and showcase data. When it comes to professionals they usually have a code of conduct. This is why Joan says that she doesn't want to misrepresent the findings. Which she should not misrepresent her findings. As a professional, your actions can affect society which is why there should be good business ethics among professionals. She would be held morally responsible for misrepresenting data when there could be other programs that are more effective and could improve the program

Step 1: Identify the ethical issues

The ethical issues in this scenario revolve around honesty, integrity, and responsibility. Joan is faced with the dilemma of whether to manipulate data to secure funding for a program she believes in, or to present the data as it is, which could potentially lead to the loss of funding.

Step 2: Relate to class topics

This scenario relates to the class topic of professionalism and ethics. As a professional, Joan has a responsibility to uphold ethical standards, which include honesty and integrity. Misrepresenting data would be a breach of these standards.

Step 3: Apply ethical theories

Deontological theory can be applied here. According to this theory, the morality of an action should be based on whether that action itself is right or wrong under a series of rules, rather than based on the consequences of the action. In this case, even though Joan believes in the program, misrepresenting the data would be considered wrong under deontological theory.

Consequentialist theory, which judges actions based on their outcomes, could also be applied. If Joan believes that the positive impact of the program outweighs the negative consequences of misrepresenting the data, she might justify her actions under this theory. However, this would be ethically questionable.

Step 4: Discuss professional responsibility

As a professional, Joan has a responsibility to present accurate and honest data. Misrepresenting the data could lead to negative consequences, such as funding being allocated to a less effective program, and could damage her professional reputation. It could also have a broader societal impact, as it could affect the quality of education for young children. Therefore, it would be ethically appropriate for Joan to present the data as it is, even if it might result in loss of funding for the program.