Whistleblowers: Ethics in Business

Each group will come to a unanimous decision about the Big Question. This is going to involve individual reading, individual decision-making, group decision making and group debate.

1. Divide up into groups of 2-3 people (no larger!).

Each person on your team will research one aspect of the puzzle. After each member researches his / her part, the group will come together and explain (teach) their part to the rest of the group. This will help you all get a better understanding of the topic to make your decisions - as individuals and as a group.

Research Topic 1: Where did the term whistle blower originate? What stereotypes are associated with the name? (positve/negative) How does whistle blowing play a role in business ethics in the workplace?

Research Topic 2: What ramifications are often faced by those who choose to "blow the whistle"?  (Provide specific examples) What ethical dilemmas must individuals consider when choosing to "blow the whistle"?

Research Topic 3:  Research atleast 3 instances of whistle blowing (within the last 10 years) and give a detailed description of the situation.

2. Meet as a group and decide who is going to research what part of the problem (who will do which readings).

�Brainstorm and predict what you think the potential problems will be and what you have to consider in making a group decision.
�Put your concepts and resources on paper. This will help you to see the issues and their connection.
�Each member MUST have a separate brainstorm/research sheet or notes. This will be turned in at the end of the project.
Please note: This meeting and research will take place in class. You will be given two working periods. The rest of the project will be done outside of class on your own time. This includes arranging meeting times to learn what your group members have read, to make decisions, to discuss the problems and to write the paper.

3. Search and explore the resource materials for support information. As you read the material and hear what other members have read, continue to update your predictions and perspectives.

4. Meet as a group and share what you have read.

5. Formulate choices and determine potential outcomes.

6. Debate the topic and the various points to consider

7. As a group,  make a unanimous decision.

FORMAT OF FORMAL ESSAY:

Write a group essay explaining in detail the various points you had to consider in reaching your decision regarding the problem given to you. Your essay must also include a written portion for each individual's research topics and you must also:
�Explain your choice and why your group feels this is the best course of action.
�Explain also why other actions would not be good. Be able to defend your position using the reasearch obtained by group members!

Your formal essay must be approximatley 1000-1500 words. This document must be typed, include a cover page and properly formatted works cited page!

DON'T FORGET TO INCLUDE EACH GROUP MEMBER'S BRAIN STORM/RESEARCH NOTES WITH YOUR FORMAL ESSAY!