explore · Problem Solving · 60–90 min · 3-15 people · medium energy

Ethical Dilemma Discussion

An Ethical Dilemma Discussion helps evaluation teams anticipate and address potential ethical challenges. It involves presenting hypothetical scenarios and collaboratively exploring ethical considerations and appropriate responses.

When to use Ethical Dilemma Discussion

Use this method to proactively address ethical concerns and ensure the evaluation is conducted in a responsible and ethical manner.

What it solves

Uncertainty about how to handle ethical dilemmas that may arise during the evaluation.

How to run Ethical Dilemma Discussion, step by step

  1. Present a series of ethical dilemmas relevant to the evaluation context (15 min)
  2. Divide participants into small groups to discuss each dilemma and propose solutions (30 min)
  3. Reconvene the large group and share the proposed solutions (30 min)
  4. Develop a set of guidelines for addressing ethical dilemmas based on the discussion (15 min)

Materials needed

  • Prepared ethical dilemma scenarios
  • Whiteboard or flip chart
  • Markers
  • Ethical guidelines for evaluation

Facilitator tips

  • Create a safe and confidential environment for discussing sensitive issues.
  • Encourage participants to consider multiple perspectives.

Common pitfalls

  • Participants being unwilling to engage in difficult conversations.
  • Failing to develop clear and actionable guidelines.

Variations

  • Invite an ethics expert to facilitate the discussion.
  • Use real-life examples of ethical dilemmas from past evaluations.

Running it online or hybrid

Use breakout rooms for small group discussions and a shared document for recording key points.

What it produces

A set of guidelines for addressing ethical dilemmas in the evaluation.

Origin

Adapted from BetterEvaluation.org — source

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