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Conflict Transformation

Ellen Ott Marshall

This course introduces you to the concept of conflict transformation and how it differs from conflict resolution, management, and prevention. We’ll see how conflict offers opportunities for constructive change, and we'll explore different tools and methods for engaging conflict constructively.

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This course introduces you to the concept of conflict transformation and how it differs from conflict resolution, management, and prevention. We’ll see how conflict offers opportunities for constructive change, and we'll explore different tools and methods for engaging conflict constructively.

Regardless of your familiarity with the topic, you'll get insightful tips, portable handouts, lively demonstrations, and personalized assignments to bridge and enhance your own knowledge and history within the conflict narrative. In any area of your life, you'll benefit from the practical techniques and transferable information offered throughout this five-week journey.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Conflict As an Opportunity?
This module uncovers a deeper awareness of what conflict is, its underlying opportunities, and the concept of conflict transformation.
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Know Thyself: How Do You Respond to Conflict and Why Do You Respond That Way?
This module looks at a self-assessment instrument, the conflict styles, and how your body and brain respond to conflict.
What in the World Is Going On? Analyzing Conflict
This module explores conflict analysis and three analysis tools.
Doing Well in the Middle
This module will discuss mediation and circle processes and guidelines for facilitating or participating in one of these processes.
No Easy Road: The Ongoing Work on Conflict Transformation
This module covers strategies for dealing with conflict that is ongoing or seemingly erupts unexpectedly.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
The course examines conflict as an opportunity, which is a valuable perspective for those who want to constructively engage with conflict
Develops skills for understanding different styles of conflict and responses to it, which is useful in professional and personal settings
Introduces various effective tools for engaging with conflict constructively, providing practical strategies
Guides learners through the complexities of conflict analysis, enabling them to effectively navigate conflict situations
Offers mediation and circle processes for facilitating or participating in conflict resolution, providing practical tools for different scenarios
Provides strategies for dealing with ongoing or unexpected conflicts, equipping learners to navigate challenging situations

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Reviews summary

Conflict transformed

Learners say this “amazing,” “excellent,” and “insightful” course taught by Ellen Ott Marshall offers a well-structured and engaging look at conflict through multiple lenses. Students gained practical knowledge on conflict transformation and resolution, noting that Marshall’s clear teaching style helped them understand theories and apply strategies to everyday life. With interesting readings, relevant videos, and engaging assignments, this course not only reframes conflicts as opportunities but also equips learners with tools for personal and professional growth.
Many learners note that the course provided practical knowledge and tools they could apply immediately, both personally and professionally.
"I learned a little more about my conflict style and learned some tools that would help me consider ongoing and new conflict through the transformative lens."
"I opted to do this course as I felt it would help me to deal with conflict in the workplace, however, since doing the course and learning about all aspects of conflict transformation I now feel confident to deal with conflict in the workplace and also in my personal life."
Learners say this course transforms the way they view conflict, presenting it as a catalyst for change.
"Very frankly, I got into the course just out of curiosity but ended up being a serious learner."
"I think the course is worth looking into for everyone as we all live in this everyday conflict world."
Students consistently praise Ellen Ott Marshall for her clear teaching style, passion for the subject, and ability to make complex concepts understandable.
"The instructor, Ellen Ott Marshall, is superb, the course itself is professional & personal, the content is great."
"Ellen Ott Marshall is an amazing speaker and teacher. She is captivating and concise."
Learners note that the course offers a variety of assignments that reinforce learning, but some express concerns about peer grading.
"I did not like it when I was given grades by amateurs instead of teachers."
"One student kept failing me ALL the time."
Some learners note that the course requires more time to complete than the estimated two hours per week, especially if students want to fully engage with the material.
"Very frankly, I got into the course just out of curiosity but ended up being a serious learner."
"I think the course is worth looking into for everyone as we all live in this everyday conflict world."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Conflict Transformation with these activities:
Review Conflict Resolution Techniques
Familiarizing yourself with conflict resolution techniques will help you participate more fully and effectively in the discussions and activities in this course.
Browse courses on Conflict Resolution
Show steps
  • Read two books on conflict resolution and note-take on key concepts
  • Participate in a role-playing exercise to practice conflict resolution techniques
Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In
This book provides a practical framework for negotiating agreements that are fair and beneficial to all parties involved.
Show steps
  • Read the book and take notes on the key concepts
  • Participate in a discussion group to discuss the book and its implications for conflict resolution
Online Conflict Resolution Tutorials
Following online conflict resolution tutorials will provide you with the opportunity to learn from experts and practice your skills at your own pace.
Browse courses on Conflict Resolution
Show steps
  • Find a series of online conflict resolution tutorials that are relevant to your interests and needs
  • Watch the tutorials and take notes on the key concepts
  • Complete the practice exercises and activities that are included in the tutorials
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Conflict Resolution Case Studies
Analyzing real-world conflict resolution case studies will help you develop your critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they relate to conflict resolution.
Browse courses on Conflict Analysis
Show steps
  • Read a case study and identify the key conflict points
  • Develop a plan for resolving the conflict
  • Present your plan to the class and discuss its strengths and weaknesses
Peer Support Group for Conflict Resolution
Participating in a peer support group will provide you with the opportunity to connect with other students who are also interested in learning about conflict resolution.
Browse courses on Conflict Resolution
Show steps
  • Find a peer support group that is relevant to your interests and needs
  • Attend the group meetings and participate fully in the discussions and activities
  • Share your own experiences and insights with the group
Conflict Resolution Workshop
Attending a conflict resolution workshop will provide you with the opportunity to learn from experts and practice your skills in a safe and supportive environment.
Browse courses on Conflict Resolution
Show steps
  • Find a conflict resolution workshop that is relevant to your interests and needs
  • Attend the workshop and participate fully in the activities and discussions
  • Reflect on what you learned and how you can apply it to your own life and work
Volunteer as a Mediator or Facilitator
Volunteering as a mediator or facilitator will provide you with the opportunity to put your conflict resolution skills into practice.
Browse courses on Conflict Resolution
Show steps
  • Find a volunteer opportunity that is relevant to your interests and needs
  • Complete the necessary training and certification
  • Volunteer your time to mediate or facilitate conflicts
Conflict Resolution Plan for a Real-World Problem
Creating a conflict resolution plan for a real-world problem will allow you to apply the concepts you learn in this course to a practical situation.
Browse courses on Conflict Resolution
Show steps
  • Identify a real-world problem that involves conflict
  • Research the problem and the different perspectives involved
  • Develop a plan for resolving the conflict
  • Present your plan to a group of stakeholders and get their feedback

Career center

Learners who complete Conflict Transformation will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Conflict Analyst
Conflict analysts study the causes and dynamics of conflict, and develop strategies to prevent or resolve conflicts. The Conflict Transformation course provides a deep understanding of the nature of conflict, as well as practical tools and techniques for analyzing and resolving conflicts. This course is highly relevant for those seeking a career in conflict analysis.
Mediator
Mediators facilitate communication between parties in a dispute, helping them reach agreements without needing to resort to litigation. This course provides strategies for understanding conflict, analyzing conflict, and techniques for resolving disputes. The course will be particularly useful for mediators who want to improve their conflict resolution skills and expand their knowledge of conflict transformation.
Negotiator
Negotiators mediate between parties by facilitating dialogue, thereby helping find a mutually agreeable resolution. To be effective, you will need to listen actively, analyze issues, and possess excellent communication skills. Conflict Transformation teaches the skills needed for these areas. For example, in the course, you will learn about conflict analysis, which is a key skill for negotiators to find common ground and resolve disputes effectively. Furthermore, the course covers mediation and circle processes, which are essential techniques used in negotiation.
Arbitrator
Arbitrators preside over legal hearings and make binding decisions. The Conflict Transformation course provides a solid foundation in conflict resolution techniques and strategies. The course will prove particularly useful for those who wish to enter this field, as it provides insights into the nature of conflict, different approaches to resolving disputes, and the skills needed to be an effective arbitrator.
Diplomat
Diplomats represent their countries in foreign relations and negotiate agreements. This course will be useful for aspiring diplomats, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of conflict transformation and the skills needed to facilitate constructive dialogue, build consensus, and promote peace.
Social Worker
Social workers help people overcome challenges and improve their well-being. This course will provide valuable insights into the nature of conflict, as well as strategies for resolving disputes and promoting peace. This would be especially useful for social workers who work with individuals or communities affected by conflict.
Humanitarian Aid Worker
Humanitarian aid workers provide emergency assistance to people affected by natural disasters, conflicts, or other crises. This course will provide useful insights into the nature of conflict, as well as strategies for resolving disputes and promoting peace. This would be especially useful for aspiring aid workers who may encounter conflicts in their work.
Peacebuilder
Peacebuilders work to prevent or end violent conflict and build sustainable peace. This course will prove invaluable to aspiring peacebuilders, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of conflict transformation and the skills needed to facilitate constructive dialogue, build consensus, and promote reconciliation.
Teacher
Teachers educate students at all levels. This course may be useful for aspiring teachers, as it provides a solid foundation in conflict resolution techniques and strategies.
Politician
Politicians hold elected office and make decisions that affect the public. This course may be useful for aspiring politicians, as it provides a solid foundation in conflict resolution techniques and strategies.
Lawyer
Lawyers advise clients on legal matters and represent them in court. This course may be useful for aspiring lawyers, as it provides a solid foundation in conflict resolution techniques and strategies.
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit managers oversee the operations of nonprofit organizations. This course may be useful for aspiring nonprofit managers, as it provides a solid foundation in conflict resolution techniques and strategies.
Police Officer
Police officers enforce the law and maintain order. This course may be useful for aspiring police officers, as it provides a solid foundation in conflict resolution techniques and strategies.
Journalist
Journalists report on current events and investigate important issues. This course may be useful for aspiring journalists, as it provides a solid foundation in conflict resolution techniques and strategies.
Consultant
Consultants provide advice and expertise to organizations on a variety of issues. This course may be useful for aspiring consultants, as it provides a solid foundation in conflict resolution techniques and strategies.

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Conflict Transformation.
Foundational text on the topic. It bridges theory and practice and provides a framework for understanding the different elements involved in successful conflict transformation, including intervention, negotiation, mediation, peacemaking, and civic dialogue. Parts of this book parallel material taught in the course.
Presents a model of conflict that emphasizes the potential for conflict to be a positive force for change. The authors provide strategies for managing conflict in a way that enhances creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving.
Provides practical advice on how to have difficult conversations in a constructive way. The authors offer a step-by-step process for navigating difficult conversations, including how to prepare for them, how to stay calm and focused, and how to find solutions that work for everyone.
Explores the cultural dimensions of conflict and conflict resolution. The author provides a cross-cultural perspective on conflict and offers insights into how different cultures view and resolve conflict.
Provides a comprehensive overview of mediation theory and practice. The author offers a step-by-step guide to the mediation process, including how to prepare for mediation, how to conduct a mediation session, and how to reach a mediated agreement.
Comprehensive resource on conflict resolution theory and practice. The author provides an overview of the different theories of conflict and offers a range of practical tools and techniques for resolving conflict.
Explores the neurological basis of conflict and conflict resolution. The author provides insights into how the brain responds to conflict, and offers strategies for managing conflict in a healthy way.

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