CASE STUDY #4

Ethical Decision Making Seminar: Steps in Ethical Decision Making

Format from The Dimensions of Ethical Decision Making by Kellie Mills-Stewart and Anna
Witter-Merithew
Step One What is the issue?

Mike has taken a job that he may not be entirely qualified to do and it is
impacting the quality of the D/deaf clients’ work and could result in them not
getting hired.

Step Two What is the ethical tenet that governs the question?

Tenet 2.2 - Assess consumer needs and the interpreting situation before and
during the assignment and make adjustments as needed.
Tenet 2.4

Step Three How does the ethical tenet apply to the issue?

2.2 The interpreter can see that the D/deaf clients are struggling because of
his lack of competence. He can see their need for someone more familiar with
the material.
2.4 If Mike cannot interpret the situation clearly, he should probably call for
backup support from his team.

Step Four Consider the issue from all sides.

T​ he D/deaf clients don’t seem to mind the interpreter, and Mike doesn’t want
to give up the job. The instructor may be frustrated that the clients aren’t
understanding the concepts and the company hiring may not be impressed
with their skills.

Step Five Determine the possible resolution strategies.

 ​Mike could keep the job and do some extra research outside of it and brush up
on the terminology in use. He could also consider calling in a team mate such
as a CDI who may be able to better portray the information, or another
interpreter that knows more about the material.

Step Six Choose the final course of action.

​Mike should do more research on the material and become more familiar with
it. If he wants to keep this job for a long time, he will need to begin to grasp it
himself, and with enough practice and learning her will, especially if he is trying
his best.

Discussion Questions:

2/3. Individual vs. Community - Mike wants the job, even though it is affecting those who he is
interpreting for.
Short-term vs. Long-term - In the short-term, Mike is doing an okay job and it is satisfying his
need for work, but long-term the D/deaf clients will not have learned as well as they could have.

6. I’d say it is a Win-Win because Mike would be able to keep the job and the D/deaf clients
would have a more qualified interpreter who would be able to interpret the material. Also, if he
keeps the job he will have more experience with it and learn more, and so future D/deaf clients
will have a better interpreter as well.