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Conflict Transformation

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Ellen Ott Marshall

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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Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

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

Practical conflict transformation insights

According to learners, this course provides a fresh perspective on conflict, framing it not as something to avoid, but as an opportunity for growth and change. Students found the material practical and applicable to both personal and professional situations, offering concrete tools for analysis and engagement. Many highlighted the instructor's expertise and engaging delivery as key strengths. The self-assessment module was particularly praised for providing valuable insight into personal conflict styles. While largely positive, some reviewers felt certain topics could benefit from more in-depth exploration, suggesting it serves as an excellent introduction but may require further study for advanced practice.

Knowledgeable instructor with engaging delivery.

"The instructor is fantastic! Very knowledgeable and presents the material in a clear and engaging way."

"I really enjoyed the instructor's style and expertise; they made complex topics easy to understand."

"The demonstrations and examples provided by the instructor were excellent and brought the concepts to life."

Helps understand personal conflict style.

"The self-assessment module was a real eye-opener, helping me understand my own reactions to conflict."

"Understanding my personal conflict style has been incredibly helpful in navigating interactions more effectively."

"I learned so much about myself and why I respond to conflict in the ways that I do."

Provides useful strategies for analysis and engagement.

"The tools for analyzing conflict are incredibly useful and immediately applicable to real-life situations."

"I gained concrete strategies for engaging in difficult conversations and mediation processes."

"This course gave me practical techniques I can use right away, both at work and at home."

Shifts understanding of conflict as an opportunity.

"This course completely changed how I view conflict. It's not just something negative, but an opportunity."

"I've learned to see conflict through a completely different lens – as a chance for constructive change."

"I never considered conflict an opportunity before taking this, it's a genuinely transformative concept."

Serves as a great introduction, but lacks depth.

"This course is a wonderful introduction, but I wish some topics went into more detail for practitioners."

"It gives a solid foundation, but for more complex conflicts, I feel I would need further study."

"While comprehensive for an intro, some areas felt a bit rushed and could be expanded upon."

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

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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

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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

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This book provides a practical framework for negotiating agreements that are fair and beneficial to all parties involved.

View Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without... on Amazon

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Conflict Analyst

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mediator

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Negotiator

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for 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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Diplomat

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Peacebuilder

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Humanitarian Aid Worker

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Police Officer

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Consultant

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Lawyer

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nonprofit Manager

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Politician

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.

Getting Disputes Resolved

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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.

Getting Disputes Resolved: Designing Systems to Cut...

Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument

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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.

Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument

Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument

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Difficult Conversations

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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.

Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What...

Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What...

Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What...

Difficult Conversations/10th Edition/Chinese edition

Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What...

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Save

Classic negotiation guide that provides a framework for principled negotiation. The authors offer a step-by-step process for negotiating agreements that are fair and sustainable.

Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without...

Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without...

Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without...

(Deutsch) Das Harvard-Konzept: Die unschlagbare Methode für...

Getting to Yes Negotiating an agreement without...

(Español) Sí, de acuerdo [Getting to Yes]: Cómo negociar sin...

Audible Audiobook

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CORPORATE CONFLICT MANAGEMENT

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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.

Corporate Conflict Management: Concepts and Skills

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The Mediation Process

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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.

The Mediation Process: Practical Strategies for...

The Mediation Process: Practical Strategies for...

The Mediation Process: Practical Strategies for...

The Mediation Process: Practical Strategies for...

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Managing Conflict in Organizations

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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.

Managing Conflict in Organizations

Managing Conflict in Organizations

Managing Conflict in Organizations: Fourth Edition...

Managing Conflict in Organizations

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Rewire Your Anxious Brain

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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.

Rewire Your Anxious Brain

Rewire Your Anxious Brain

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Effort

5 weeks of study, 2 hours/week

Level

Introductory

Via

Coursera

Institution

Emory University

Instructor

Ellen Ott Marshall

Language

English

Transcripts

Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা tiếng Việt پښتو آذربایجان دیلی

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

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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