Conflict Resolution

Course Title: Conflict Resolution: Theory and Practice

Course Overview:

This course explores the theories, strategies, and practical applications of conflict resolution in various contexts, including interpersonal relationships, workplace dynamics, and community disputes. Students will learn to identify the sources of conflict, analyze conflict situations, and develop effective resolution strategies.

Course Objectives: (Instructor) choose selected content and work Module

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Identify different types of conflicts and their root causes.
2. Apply conflict resolution techniques in real-world scenarios.
3. Develop skills for negotiation, mediation, and effective communication.
4. Evaluate the effectiveness of different conflict resolution strategies.

Course Outline:

Module 1: Introduction to Conflict Resolution

• Topics: Definition of conflict, types of conflict (intrapersonal, interpersonal, group), and the importance of conflict resolution.
• Readings:
  • Fisher, R., Ury, W. L., & Patton, B. (2011). Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In.

Module 2: Theories of Conflict

• Activities: Group discussion on personal conflict experiences.
• Assessment: Reflection paper on a personal conflict experience and outcome.

Module 3: Communication Skills for Conflict Resolution

• Topics: Active listening, assertiveness, and nonverbal communication.
• Readings:
  • Rosenberg, M. (2003). Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life.
• Activities: Role-playing scenarios to practice communication skills.

Module 4: Conflict Styles and Strategies

• Topics: Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument, collaborative vs. competitive approaches.
• Assessment: Research the Thomas-Kilmann assessment and reflect on personal conflict style.

Module 5: Negotiation Techniques

• Topics: Principles of negotiation, BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement).
• Activities: Mock negotiation exercises.
• Assessment: Discuss and write a 2 paragraph negotiation strategy

Module 6: Mediation and Facilitation

• Topics: Role of a mediator, mediation process, and facilitative vs. evaluative mediation.
• Readings:
  • Search Moore, C. W. (2014). Mediation Process: Strategies for Resolving Conflict.
• Activities: Simulated mediation sessions.
• Assessment: Group mediation project. List and discuss 3 strategies for resolving confict

Module 7: Cultural and Ethical Considerations in Conflict Resolution

• Topics: Impact of culture on conflict and resolution strategies; ethical dilemmas in conflict resolution.
• Activities: Case study analysis of cross-cultural conflicts.
• Assessment: Group or record presentation on different cultural considerations in conflict resolution.

Module 8: Conflict Resolution in Communities

• Topics: Community mediation, grassroots conflict resolution initiatives, and restorative justice.
• Activities: Guest speaker from a community mediation organization.
• Assessment: Research project on a community conflict resolution initiative.

Week 10: Personal Development and Future Applications

• Topics: Personal reflection on conflict resolution skills, creating a personal action plan.
• Activities: Peer feedback on conflict resolution strategies.
• Assessment: Final portfolio including reflections, assessments, and personal action plans.

Assessment Methods: Instructor choose final Assessments

1. Reflection Papers: Assess students’ ability to connect histors with personal experiences.
2. Group Projects: Evaluate collaboration and application of conflict resolution techniques in a group setting.
3. Case Studies: Analyze real-world conflicts, applying theoretical knowledge and problem-solving skills.
4. Mock Negotiations and Mediations: Assess practical application of negotiation and mediation skills.
5. Final Portfolio: Comprehensive evaluation of the student’s learning journey throughout the course.

Suggested Readings:

• Fisher, R., Ury, W. L., & Patton, B. (2011). Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In.
• Rosenberg, M. (2003). Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life.
• Moore, C. W. (2014). The Mediation Process: Practical Strategies for Resolving Conflict.

Conclusion:

This curriculum provides a comprehensive framework for teaching conflict resolution, blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills. The assessments encourage active participation and real-world application, preparing students to handle conflicts effectively in various contexts.

Feel free to adjust any components to fit specific needs or contexts!