The dispute resolution module makes extensive use made of role-play in order to develop a deeper understanding of the dynamics underlying conflicts and the process of dispute resolution. Comparisons are made with litigation and with other adversarial and quasi-judicial mechanisms so as to place mediation and negotiation in a proper context. Themes are identified and discussed, often in light of role-plays designed to bring these themes into play, and the social and psychological aspects are considered. The module also incorporates theories of conflict and conflict management, as well as the landscape of dispute resolution.
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
The module will be delivered by a series of seminars and workshops involving extensive role-play. The students will process a range of different disputes and participate in the process of their resolution. The combination of mediation and negotiation within one module allows for direct comparisons to be made and demonstrated. This generates some creative teaching opportunities where the same dispute can be addressed in a number of different ways, even switching between negotiation and mediation midway through the role-play.
| Definitive UNISTATS Category | Indicative Description | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled learning and teaching | 22 three hour seminars and workshops | 66 |
| Guided independent study | Reading the material and preparing for the workshop tasks and assessments | 234 |
| Total (number of credits x 10) | 300 | |
The assessment will consist of 100% coursework (a negotiation exercise 30%; a mediation exercise 30% and a written piece 40%). The first two will include in class activities worth a total of 10%. The assessments will require students to demonstrate an understanding of the theory and practice of negotiation and mediation. The assessments allow students to demonstrate their knowledge, understanding and ability to apply their skills, as well as their ability to research the theory behind negotiation and mediation. Feedback on formative assessments will be provided to students during class.
| Learning Outcome | Assessment Strategy |
|---|---|
| 1) Demonstrate an ability to critically evaluate the nature of dispute resolution and the context in which it operates | Seminars and coursework |
| 2) Demonstrate a critical understanding of the dynamics underlying a range of different disputes so as to identify appropriate responses | Seminars and coursework |
| 3) Demonstrate an ability to critically evaluate a range of academic literature, including legal, business, social and psychological | Seminars and coursework |
| 4) Demonstrate an advanced ability to work with different parties so as to move forward the process of dispute resolution | Seminars and coursework |
| 5) Demonstrate an ability to deploy a range of practical interpersonal skills, both cerebral and instinctual | Seminars and coursework |
| Description of Assessment | Definitive UNISTATS Categories | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Practical exam | Practical Exam (Negotiation) | 30 |
| Practical exam | Practical Exam (Mediation) | 30 |
| Coursework | Coursework | 40 |
| Total (to equal 100%) | 100% | |
It IS NOT a requirement that any major assessment category is passed separately in order to achieve an overall pass for the module.
Roberts & Palmer, Dispute Processes Cambridge
L.Boulle, & M.Nesic, Mediation: Principles, Process, Practice, Butterworths
R.Fisher, & W.Ury, , Getting to Yes, Penguin
Strasser and Randolph, Mediation; A Psychological Insight into Dispute Resolution