This course will provide an overview of communication theory as it relates to issues of culture and conflict and conflict management. This course will examine the principal theoretical communication concepts involved in conflict and conflict management and the impact of these concepts on the quality of decisions arrived at and the feelings people develop toward each other as a result of conflict. The course will also examine the nature and meaning of conflict, conflict management techniques, and the assessment of conflict situations from a cross-cultural perspective. It will explore various models for training third parties to function effectively in handling disputes where cultural differences are a significant factor. The concepts will be applied through various methods to determine the applicability of conflict management to mediation. The course will be taught in an interactive format utilising lectures, observation, class discussions, role plays and experiential exercises. Particular attention will be paid to issues relating to culture, gender and race relations. At the conclusion of this course, students should be able to: • Identify appropriate and effective communication skills to manage conflict • Demonstrate appropriate and effective communication skillsin managing conflict • evaluate the effectiveness of various conflict behaviours (productive or destructive) and justify evaluations; • illustrate by way of examples in group presentations, behaviours that results in productive/destructive conflict interactions; • identify any special communication skills necessary to counteract destructive conflict interaction; and • identify the role and demands of any gender and cultural influences on conflict management and conflict resolution.
Credits: 3
Level: Postgraduate
Course Assessment: 100% Coursework
Lecture Time: TBA
For more information on enrolling in this course please contact: MPA-UWI-Training@gov.tt