Skip to main content
PCR715Social Sciences3 Unitsintermediate

Introduction To Conflict Resolution Processes I

This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts and practices of conflict resolution. It explores various processes including mediation, negotiation, bargaining, and Alternative Dispute Resolution. The course aims to equip students with a strong foundation in understanding conflict dynamics and applying effective resolution strategies. Students will learn to appreciate the importance of communication and cooperation in achieving peaceful outcomes in diverse settings.

Take a practice test or generate AI study notes to help you excel in this course.

15h
Study Time
13
Weeks
1h
Per Week
none
Math Level
Course Keywords
Conflict ResolutionMediationNegotiationBargainingADR

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
📚
Math Level
No Math
📖
Learning Type
Theoretical Focus

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Conflict Definition

2

Conflict Resolution Processes

3

Mediation Skills

4

Negotiation Strategies

5

Alternative Dispute Resolution

6

International Law

Total Topics6 topics

Ready to Start

No specific requirements needed

This course is designed to be accessible to all students. You can start immediately without any prior knowledge or specific preparation.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

tutor-marked assessments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

final examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Mediator

Apply your skills in this growing field

Arbitrator

Apply your skills in this growing field

Diplomat

Apply your skills in this growing field

Human Resources Manager

Apply your skills in this growing field

Negotiator

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

GovernmentLawInternational RelationsHuman ResourcesSocial Work

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1:

4h

Unit 1: The Meaning of Conflict Resolution

2 study hours
  • Define conflict and its underlying causes
  • Differentiate between dispute settlement and conflict resolution
  • Analyze institutional structures contributing to conflict

Unit 2: Processes of Conflict Resolution

2 study hours
  • Compare cooperative and competitive approaches
  • Discuss mutual gains and competitive negotiation tactics
  • Explore African traditional processes of conflict resolution
Week
2

Module 1:

4h

Unit 3: Conflict Transformation

2 study hours
  • Define conflict transformation
  • Distinguish between conflict transformation, resolution, and management
  • Analyze the dialectic nature of conflict

Unit 4: Major Strategies for Conflict Resolution

2 study hours
  • Explain conciliation and mediation
  • Understand arbitration and litigation
  • Identify major strategies for conflict resolution
Week
3

Module 2:

2h

Unit 1: What is Mediation?

2 study hours
  • Define mediation and its importance
  • Explain the mediation process
  • Identify potential mediators: individuals, states, institutions
Week
4

Module 2:

2h

Unit 2: Skills of Mediation

2 study hours
  • Explain skills of mediation
  • Identify sources of trust
  • Discuss how mediators build trust with parties
Week
5

Module 2:

2h

Unit 3: Strategies of Mediation

2 study hours
  • Identify three main mediation strategies
  • Explain communication facilitation strategies
  • Explain procedural and directive strategies
Week
6

Module 2:

2h

Unit 4: Conditions for Successful Mediation

2 study hours
  • Explain importance of timing in mediation
  • Describe enabling factors for mediation
  • Identify instances where mediation is difficult
Week
7

Module 3:

2h

Unit 1: What is Negotiation?

2 study hours
  • Define negotiation and its processes
  • Explain objectives of negotiation
  • Distinguish positional bargaining from principled negotiations
Week
8

Module 3:

2h

Unit 2: Integrative or Interest-based Bargaining (Principled Negotiation)

2 study hours
  • Define integrative bargaining
  • Identify collective interests
  • Explain creating new options
Week
9

Module 3:

2h

Unit 3: The Frames of Negotiation

2 study hours
  • Explain framing a problem
  • Explain planning for negotiation
  • Understand the frames of negotiations
Week
10

Module 3:

2h

Unit 4: Alternative Dispute Resolution

2 study hours
  • Define Alternative Dispute Resolution
  • List basic ADR processes
  • Outline advantages and disadvantages of ADR
Week
11

Module 4:

2h

Unit 1: Communication in Conflict Resolution

2 study hours
  • Explain importance of communication
  • Describe implications of language
  • Explain non-verbal expressions
  • Discuss conveying the right message
Week
12

Module 4:

4h

Unit 2: Basic Standards in International Law and Humanitarian Principles

2 study hours
  • Define international law
  • Discuss types of international law
  • Explain basic standards and humanitarian principles

Unit 3: Early Warning and Preventive Measures

2 study hours
  • Explain elements of early warning
  • Describe early warning process
  • Discuss multilateral preventive actions
Week
13

Module 4:

2h

Unit 4: Skills and Methods of Conflict Resolution

2 study hours
  • Discuss conflict at individual level
  • Explain current thinking on conflict resolution styles
  • Explain role of mediation and negotiation

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

Read the complete course material as provided by NOUN.

Access PDF Material

Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Review definitions of key terms in Units 1-4

2

Create concept maps linking mediation skills (Module 2)

3

Practice negotiation scenarios from Module 3

4

Study international law principles from Unit 2 Module 4

5

Summarize conflict resolution strategies from Unit 4 Module 1

Related Courses

Other courses in Social Sciences that complement your learning