Conflict Resolution Course

Description

Course Objectives:

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

1. Understand the theoretical frameworks of conflict resolution.
2. Identify different types of conflicts and their root causes.
3. Apply conflict resolution techniques in real-world scenarios.
4. Develop skills for negotiation, mediation, and effective communication.
5. 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

• Topics: Overview of conflict theories (e.g., structural, psychological, cultural).
• Activities: Group discussion on personal conflict experiences.
• Assessment: Reflection paper on a personal conflict experience and theoretical perspective.

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: Complete 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: Written analysis of a negotiation case study.

Module 6: Mediation and Facilitation

• Topics: Role of a mediator, mediation process, and facilitative vs. evaluative mediation.
• Readings:
  • Moore, C. W. (2014). The Mediation Process: Practical Strategies for Resolving Conflict.
• Activities: Simulated mediation sessions.
• Assessment: Group mediation project.

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 presentation on cultural considerations in conflict resolution.

Module 8: Conflict Resolution in Organizations

• Topics: Organizational conflict, conflict management systems, and team dynamics.
• Readings:
  • Kilmann, R. H., & Thomas, K. W. (1977). "Developing a Forced-Choice Measure of Conflict-Handling Behavior: The Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument."
• Activities: Analyze a case of organizational conflict.
• Assessment: Written report on an organizational conflict case.

Module 9: 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:

1. Reflection Papers: Assess students’ ability to connect theory 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.