You are a teacher in the Science department of a reputed college. Your HoD (Head of Department) has been a good mentor to you and has guided your career progress. You get to know from one of your students that the HoD gives private tuitions at his residence, which is disliked by many others in the department. There are also rumours that he might be giving extra marks to the students taking his tuitions. When enquired, his reply is that he is not alone and a few other teachers are giving private tuitions as well. He assures you that it is beneficial for the students as some of them need extra attention. He advises you not to make a fuss about it and indirectly reminds you about the assessment rating, which is due this week. You are aware that a good rating will definitely get you the due promotion. The HoD is due to retire in 4 months. (a) What are the dilemmas that you face in this situation? (b) Highlight the course of action that you would adopt and give reasons for the same.

Dilemmas

1. Own promotion v/s stopping the practice of private tuitions
2. Private tuitions may indeed be beneficial to the needful students
3. My fellow teachers (colleagues) would get into trouble and lose their jobs
4. Injustice towards the students attending school only
5. My affection towards HoD (my mentor) v/s doing the right thing and stopping his wrongdoings

My action would be based on the values of -

1. Integrity
2. Dedication to duty
3. Spirit of service
4. Compassion towards students

Plan of Action

• The first task is to ascertain that private tuitions are allowed by the college policy, or not. If they are, the sole issue becomes awarding extra-marks. If they are not (most probable), then it amounts to violating the rules.

Therefore the plan can be divided in two cases -

Case 1 - Private Tuitions is not allowed

1. As a teacher who is committed to the college, I will inform the HoD and teachers about the college policy, and ask them to stop this practice. This will give them an opportunity to do the right thing.

2. If they do not listen, then I will inform the higher management. Before that, I will collect necessary proof.

3. I will further request the management to arrange for special classes for the tuition-going students in the college itself. I will volunteer to take these classes in my free time. I am sure other teachers will do the same. The college, if wants, can pay extra to such the teachers. This will be open to all students, and thus help them cope up.

4. I am positive that the higher management will ensure my rating is now out of the HoD's hands. In-fact I can even receive extra-credit for doing the right thing.

Case 2 - Private Tuition is allowed

1. First, I will collect solid evidence that marks are being awarded partially. This can be done by analysing the answer copies.
2. Again, I will first give the opportunity to the teachers to stop this. Otherwise I will approach the authorities with proof.
3. I will request the authorities to forgive the students, if they were aware of this act of teachers.