Case 3: Peterson’s Dilemma

 

Problem

     Mr. Peterson teaches a social studies class in the local high school. Because of his great rapport with his students, he is known as one of the best teachers in the school. One day after a class discussion of the contemporary problems in America, several class members approached Mr. Peterson in his office to tell him that they planned to boycott the school cafeteria in support of the migrant farmworkers across the country. Previously, the students had picketed the local grocery store and passed out leaflets in their neighborhood. They had also circulated a petition and had written letters to the school authorities in an attempt to stop the school from purchasing non-union lettuce and grapes. Both of these attempts to change school policy had failed.

 

Understanding

In the case of Mr. Peterson,if he informs the administration the students may get mad at him but there are rules and regulations that Mr. Peterson needs to follow especially he is a teacher. Mr. Peterson should make a conversation with the students to guide them on what would it cause if they continue their plan and have a meeting to the students and the school administration, tell the disadvantage and advantages of their plan. Especially Mr. Peterson is knowledgeable about the upcoming boycott and picket line; in his decision, both parties will be affected. If Mr. Peterson will not inform the school administration they may get surprised and not aware of the student’s plan and it may get out of control. The best decision is to talk both sides to be knowledgeable and be aware of what will happen, because it is hard for Mr. Peterson to decide because the students have a part that they need to take action but he is a teacher that need to follow the regulations of the administration.

Based on the Kohlberg’stages of Moral development the group  solution came up is on Under Stage 4 law and order orientation Because Despite of the various implications of the students plan the solution came up with Conforms to avoid censure by school administration, and also  keeping the job of Mr.Patterson and his relationship with his fellow students.