An Investigation into Indices of Professional Ethics for Faculty Members Using FAHP

Every organizational unit requires ethical codes, also known as professional ethics, in compliance with its professional structure. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify and rate the indices of professional ethics for faculty members using the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP).

The statistical population of this descriptive-survey study included faculty members, and university students and graduates of Islamic Azad University. The sample size was determined using the theoretical saturation; in addition, both stratified multistage sampling and convenience sampling were used for sampling. The data collection instruments included a researcher-made questionnaire and available documents. Data analysis was done using the open-coding table, central tendency of mode, and FAHP.

The survey identified approximately 80 indices of professional ethics with high impact factor, which must be evaluated in system of performance appraisal for faculty members. However, reviewed documents showed that currently less than 15% of these indices are used in the codes and forms of performance appraisal and development for faculty members of Islamic Azad University.

Results suggested the necessity of drawing up a professional ethics charter, exploiting fundamental indices of professional ethics in system of performance appraisal, and creating a distinct perspective called professional ethics in the codes and forms of performance appraisal and development for faculty members to improve the teaching-learning process.