This module will provide students with an opportunity to evaluate the various methods available for resolving conflicts and gain a theoretical and practical knowledge of mediation as a means of dispute resolution. This module makes use of role-plays in order to develop a deeper understanding of the dynamics underlying conflicts and the process of dispute resolution. The role-plays will be based on a number of scenarios, including the workplace.
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
The module will be taught through lectures and seminars. Lectures will introduce key theoretical concepts and provide students with the opportunity to apply module content to real-life situations. The module will include opportunities for experiential learning through self-assessments, individual and group presentations, quizzes, case study analysis, role plays, practical exercises, reflection and formative feedback. Learning is further supported by dedicated textbooks, journal articles, handouts and audio-visual learning materials.
Due to the experiential nature of the learning on this degree, and the importance of professional development enabling students to develop practical skills, learn from and interact with others, attendance is compulsory. Any students not attending a minimum of 80% of their timetabled sessions will be at risk of academic failure or termination from the course.
| Definitive UNISTATS Category | Indicative Description | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled learning and teaching | Workshops | 30-45 |
| Guided independent study | 270-255 | |
| Total (number of credits x 10) | 0 | |
The assessment will consist of an individual portfolio. The portfolio will include work from in-class activities, including the role-plays. The portfolio will include a reflective report on the student's engagement with the role-plays and the reading on mediation.
| Learning Outcome | Assessment Strategy |
|---|---|
| 1) evaluate the theoretical foundations of conflict resolution | Formative: in-class activities Summative: coursework |
| 2) compare and contrast formal legal procedures and critically assess the role of mediation in dispute resolution | Formative: in-class activities Summative: coursework |
| 3) evaluate the application of workplace mediation in its legal and social context | Formative: in-class activities Summative: coursework |
| 4) evaluate the elements and dynamics of mediation and critically analyse the role of the mediator | Formative: in-class activities Summative: coursework |
| 5) demonstrate intellectual and transferrable key skills by applying theory to practice in mediation | Formative: in-class activities Summative: coursework |
| 6) apply the academic literature and theoretical issues to the practical skills which have been practiced and developed through the module | Formative: in-class activities Summative: coursework |
| Description of Assessment | Definitive UNISTATS Categories | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Individual portfolio | Coursework | 100 |
| Total (to equal 100%) | 100% | |
It IS a requirement that the major category of assessment is passed in order to achieve an overall pass for the module. Note: This is a pass/fail module. The credits for this module count towards the final degree award of ‘with experience' but will not be used in calculating the final degree classification.
The latest editions of:
Boulle and Nesic, Mediator Skills and Techniques: Triangle of Influence, Bloomsbury
J.E. Beer with E. Stief, The Mediator's Handbook, New Society Publishers
L. Boulle & M. Nesic, Mediation: Principles, Process, Practice, Butterworths
Bush & Folger, The Promise of Mediation, Jossey-Bass
K. Cloke & J. Goldsmith, Resolving Conflicts at Work, Jossey-Bass
L. Coser, The Functions of Social Conflict, The Free Press
F Strasser & P Randolph, Mediation, Continuum