Conflict Dispute Resolution

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

Conflict is an intractable feature of life, whether occurring between family members, friends, coworkers, political organizations, nations, and even within oneself. No matter what discipline or career you pursue, you often find yourself in situations where your responsibility exceeds your authority. That is, your decisions often affect others who feel that they should have a say in the matter. You must then be prepared to negotiate with others to get your job done, advance your career, and even maintain meaningful personal relationships with your family and friends. The purpose of this course is to prepare you for these negotiations. First, we explore the nature of conflict while you reflect on your own personal tendencies during conflict. Second, we examine models explaining why conflicts persist and often escalate. Third, we consider strategies, with a focus on principled negotiation, for resolving conflict. Throughout, you practice developing your powers of communication, persuasion, and conflict management in various in-class activities. Take these seriously and you will learn a great deal about yourself and improve your conflict resolution skills. I hope you finish the course a more reflective and effective negotiator, prepared to handle the conflicts you will inevitably face.