Ethics in Canadian career development: Reflecting on lessons learned

Authors

  • Roberta Borgen Life Strategies Ltd., President
  • Deirdre Pickerell Canadian Career Development Foundation, Program Director
  • Gillian Johnston National Career Development Ethics Committee, Member
  • Cassie Taylor Life Strategies Ltd., Managing Director

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.20856/jnicec.5603

Keywords:

ethical fitness, ethical practice, career development, career development practice

Abstract

The Canadian Career Development context is presented as a case example of how a professional code of ethics can be developed, disseminated, and regularly renewed, as a  tool to strengthen ethical fitness. Using the four stages of learning model, the progression from unconscious incompetence through to unconscious competence is examined, illustrating the importance of a systematic approach to building awareness of relevant ethical codes, developing competencies in ethical decision-making, and engaging in open discussions about ethical dilemmas. This case example has applications to the UK and beyond as the challenges of non-regulated contexts, lack of awareness and support from employers and funders, and working under multiple ethical codes are also explored.

References

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Published

02-05-2026

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