Tamil Nadu Higher Education Department Releases Draft Model Code of Conduct for College Teachers

The Tamil Nadu higher education department has unveiled a draft model code of conduct for college teachers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining professionalism on social media and avoiding activities that could harm the institution's reputation. The draft policy, released by the TN State Council for Higher Education (TANSCHE), seeks feedback from teachers through email at tansche_edu@yahoo.co.in by July 26. The model policy will serve as a reference point for colleges and universities to develop their own guidelines for responsible social media use and teacher conduct.

Key Takeaways:

• The draft model code of conduct for college teachers, released by TANSCHE, emphasizes maintaining professionalism on social media and refraining from posts or comments that could harm the institution's reputation.
• Teachers are encouraged to use social media to share educational content, such as videos and posts about lessons and innovative teaching practices, but should avoid self-promotion and content that may offend religious sentiments.
• The policy discourages teachers from active participation in politics, associating with movements or organizations that are subversive of law and order, and promoting hatred or enmity among different communities, religions, or linguistic groups.
• Teachers are expected to establish professional boundaries with students, colleagues, and staff, avoiding exploitation or favoritism, and evaluate student performance impartially in tests and exams.
• The policy also upholds standards in research by avoiding plagiarism and data manipulation, and stresses the importance of treating all students equally and respecting their right to express opinions.

Statistics:

• July 26 is the deadline for teachers to provide feedback on the draft policy through email at tansche_edu@yahoo.co.in.
• The model policy is intended to serve as a reference point for colleges and universities to develop their own specific guidelines for teachers on social media use and conduct.
• Teachers are advised to share educational content on social media "in a manner that respects the dignity of the profession."

Sources:

• "Maintain professionalism on social media, refraining from posts or comments that could harm the institutions reputation," said the code released by the TN State Council for Higher Education (TANSCHE) on social media ethics.
• "For example, teachers can make reels about the lessons and innovative teaching practices. However, these reels should not affect any religious sentiment or be self-promoting," said M P Vijayakumar, vice-chairman of TANSCHE.
• Refrain from active participation in politics that may cause interference in professional duties. Do not associate with movements or organisations that are subversive of law and order or against the interests of higher education," it said.
• "Establish professional boundaries with students, colleagues, and staff, avoiding exploitation or favoritism," the policy said.