Conflict Resolution

1.5 Credits · Level: Graduate

This course will cover approaches for managing differences between individuals and groups as seen through the lens of negotiation. Students will investigate models of negotiation decision-making. The goal of the course is to provide students with both a conceptual and practical grasp of negotiating concepts which are applicable in their professional and personal lives. Principal focus will be on interest-based negotiation with consideration given to the psychological underpinnings of difficult conversations. This approach is now taught in business schools, law schools, and school of public policy and widely taught as a better business practice to profit and non-profit groups. It has also been the basis for resolving violent conflicts. Students will explore, through role exercises, two and multi-party negotiations. The focus will be both on the importance of substance and procedural considerations in complex negotiation. The conceptual framework is applicable in real estate negotiations as well as in other public policy and personal settings. Please Note: This course is based upon experiential learning. Thus a substantial amount of personal learning is accomplished through participation in and critique of class negotiation exercises. The value of the exercise is often dependent on the participation of your fellow students. Therefore, students should make every effort to attend all classes.