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Introduction to Conflict Management

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Stéphanie Demoulin

Conflict management is an essential skill. Any individual who masters it will not only become more efficient in their private and professional life but will also be able to help others with their own difficulties.

Conflict management is an essential competence to master in professional environments. Indeed, conflict is a most prevalent experience at the workplace as about 1/3rd of employees’ report experiencing disputes, incidents of conflict or ongoing difficult relationships over a period of 12 months. Conflict management is also a great asset in private contexts as it improves individual life and wellbeing.

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Conflict management is an essential skill. Any individual who masters it will not only become more efficient in their private and professional life but will also be able to help others with their own difficulties.

Conflict management is an essential competence to master in professional environments. Indeed, conflict is a most prevalent experience at the workplace as about 1/3rd of employees’ report experiencing disputes, incidents of conflict or ongoing difficult relationships over a period of 12 months. Conflict management is also a great asset in private contexts as it improves individual life and wellbeing.

This course will teach you core concepts and tools to better understand conflict, its primary characteristics, its sources, its consequences and will get you acquainted with the various available strategies that will help you manage it efficiently.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Analyze and model situations of divergence and conflict
  • Adopt a critical posture regarding oneself and others’ conflict styles
  • Get acquainted with various conflict management strategies

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops core conflict management strategies, arming learners for more effective professional and personal relationships
Provides a multi-modal approach to learning, engaging learners through videos, readings and discussions
Taught by Stéphanie Demoulin, a recognized expert in conflict management
Builds a foundational understanding of conflict, its causes and consequences, and how to manage it effectively

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Reviews summary

Practical skills for conflict management

According to learners, this course provides a strong foundational understanding of conflict and equips students with practical strategies that are immediately applicable. Many highlight its relevance for both professional development and personal interactions, finding the concepts clear and well-explained. While generally perceived as highly beneficial for beginners, some advanced learners suggested it primarily serves as an introduction rather than an in-depth exploration. Overall, the course is praised for its ability to help students analyze and navigate disputes effectively, making it a valuable learning experience for a broad audience.
Provides a solid introduction, but limited for advanced learners.
"This course is a great introduction for beginners, but I was hoping for more advanced content and deeper dives."
"For someone starting out, it's perfect; however, intermediate learners might find some sections a bit basic."
"The course lays a strong groundwork in conflict management, ideal for those new to the subject matter."
Instructor delivers content clearly and engagingly.
"The instructor made the learning experience enjoyable and kept me engaged throughout the modules."
"I felt truly connected to the course material, thanks to the lecturer's insightful explanations."
"The presentations were well-structured, and the instructor's delivery was both clear and motivating."
Concepts are well-explained and easy to grasp.
"The course content was easy to follow, even for someone completely new to conflict management theories."
"I appreciated the clear and concise way the material was presented, making complex ideas accessible."
"Lectures effectively broke down intricate concepts into understandable segments, enhancing my learning."
Offers valuable tools applicable in daily and professional life.
"I found the techniques incredibly useful and could immediately apply them at work and in my personal life."
"This course truly helped me understand my own conflict style and improve my difficult relationships."
"The strategies taught are not just theoretical; they are practical and directly relevant to everyday scenarios."

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 Introduction to Conflict Management with these activities:
Review Basic Communication Techniques
Reinforces the importance of active listening, empathy, and assertive communication for effective conflict management.
Browse courses on Communication Skills
Show steps
  • Review materials on communication skills, such as books or articles.
  • Practice active listening exercises, such as paraphrasing and summarizing.
  • Identify opportunities to apply improved communication techniques in daily interactions.
Conflict Resolution Role-Playing Exercises
Provides practical experience in applying conflict management strategies through role-playing exercises.
Show steps
  • Identify common conflict scenarios and potential responses.
  • Pair up with a partner and assign roles for each scenario.
  • Act out the scenario, using effective communication and conflict resolution techniques.
  • Debrief and discuss the role-play, identifying areas for improvement.
Peer Support Group for Conflict Management
Facilitates peer-to-peer learning and support, allowing participants to share experiences, strategies, and encouragement.
Show steps
  • Join a support group or create one with colleagues or peers.
  • Attend regular meetings and actively participate in discussions.
  • Share your own experiences and challenges with conflict management.
  • Offer support, advice, and encouragement to other members.
One other activity
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all four activities
Workplace Conflict Case Study Analysis
Develops analytical and problem-solving skills by examining real-world conflict scenarios and proposing solutions.
Show steps
  • Research and select a workplace conflict case study.
  • Analyze the case study, identifying the key issues and stakeholders involved.
  • Develop and evaluate potential conflict resolution strategies.
  • Write a report outlining your analysis and recommendations.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Conflict Management will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Mediator
A Mediator helps disputing parties reach an agreement. Conflict management is a core skill for Mediators. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective Mediator.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mediator
Arbitrator
An Arbitrator resolves disputes between parties. This course can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective Arbitrator. The course will help you understand the principles and strategies of conflict management, which can be essential for success in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Arbitrator
Negotiator
A Negotiator helps parties reach an agreement on a course of action. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective Negotiator. The course will help you understand the principles and strategies of conflict management, which can be essential for success in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Negotiator
Human Resources Manager
A Human Resources Manager oversees the human resources department of an organization and is responsible for a variety of tasks, including conflict resolution. This course can help you build a foundation in conflict management, which can be essential for success in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Manager
Social Worker
A Social Worker assists individuals and families in coping with a variety of life challenges. Social Work often involves helping people manage and resolve conflicts. This course would help you gain a better understanding of conflict management principles and strategies, which could be valuable in your work with clients.
See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker
Psychologist
A Psychologist studies the human mind and behavior. Conflict management is a core skill for Psychologists. This course may help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective Psychologist.
See salaries and explore the career path for Psychologist
Counselor
A Counselor provides guidance and support to individuals and families. Conflict management is a core skill for Counselors. This course may help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective Counselor.
See salaries and explore the career path for Counselor
Police Officer
A Police Officer enforces the law and protects the public. Conflict management is a core skill for Police Officers. This course may help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective Police Officer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Police Officer
Lawyer
A Lawyer represents clients in legal matters. Conflict management is a core skill for Lawyers. This course may help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective Lawyer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Lawyer
Judge
A Judge presides over legal proceedings and makes decisions on cases. Conflict management is a core skill for Judges. This course may help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective Judge.
See salaries and explore the career path for Judge
Teacher
A Teacher educates students in a variety of subjects. Conflict management may be a helpful skill for Teachers. This course may help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective Teacher.
See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher
Emergency Medical Technician
An Emergency Medical Technician provides emergency medical care to patients. Conflict management may be a helpful skill for Emergency Medical Technicians. This course may help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective Emergency Medical Technician.
See salaries and explore the career path for Emergency Medical Technician
Firefighter
A Firefighter extinguishes fires and rescues people from dangerous situations. Conflict management may be a helpful skill for Firefighters. This course may help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective Firefighter.
See salaries and explore the career path for Firefighter
Sociologist
A Sociologist studies society and human behavior. Conflict management may be a helpful skill for Sociologists. This course may help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective Sociologist.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sociologist
Anthropologist
An Anthropologist studies human societies and cultures. Conflict management may be a helpful skill for Anthropologists. This course may help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective Anthropologist.
See salaries and explore the career path for Anthropologist

Reading list

We've selected 11 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 Introduction to Conflict Management.
Cover image
Getting to Yes
Save
Provides a practical framework for negotiation and conflict resolution. It is particularly useful for understanding the different interests and perspectives of parties involved in a conflict.
Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without...
Paperback
$$
Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without...
Paperback
$$
Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without...
Paperback
$$
(Deutsch) Das Harvard-Konzept: Die unschlagbare Methode für...
Kindle Edition
$$
Getting to Yes Negotiating an agreement without...
Paperback
$$
(Español) Sí, de acuerdo [Getting to Yes]: Cómo negociar sin...
Audible Audiobook
$$
Cover image
Difficult Conversations
Save
Offers practical advice on how to handle difficult conversations, including how to prepare for them, how to stay calm and focused, and how to find common ground.
Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When...
Save
Provides a step-by-step guide to having crucial conversations, including how to identify and address the underlying issues, how to stay focused and respectful, and how to reach a mutually agreeable solution.
Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When...
Paperback
$$
Crucial Conversations (Third Edition): Tools for...
Audible Audiobook
$$
Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
The Nonviolent Communication Book of Quotes
Save
Introduces the principles of Nonviolent Communication, a communication style that emphasizes empathy, understanding, and respect. It is particularly useful for learning how to communicate in a way that reduces conflict and builds relationships.
The Nonviolent Communication Book of Quotes
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Way of the Warrior
Save
This classic work on military strategy provides insights into the nature of conflict and how to resolve it. It is particularly useful for understanding the importance of planning, preparation, and deception in conflict management.
The Path of the Warrior Ornate Box Set: The Art of...
Hardcover
$$
The Way of the Warrior: Deluxe Silkbound Editions...
Hardcover
$$
The Way of the Warrior: The Way of the Samurai, The...
Hardcover
$$
Cover image
I DECENNALI
Save
This classic work on political theory provides insights into the nature of power and how to acquire and maintain it. It is particularly useful for understanding the darker side of conflict and how to deal with it.
I DECENNALI
Paperback
Check
I DECENNALI
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Constructive Conflicts
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of conflict resolution theory and practice. It is particularly useful for students who want to learn more about the different approaches to conflict resolution and how to apply them in different settings.
Constructive Conflicts
Paperback
Check
Constructive Conflicts
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The No-Fault Classroom
Save
Provides a basic overview of conflict management. It is particularly useful for beginners who want to learn about the different types of conflict and how to resolve them.
The No-Fault Classroom
Paperback
Check
The No-Fault Classroom
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Routledge Companion to Northeast India
Save
This journal publishes original research on conflict management. It is particularly useful for scholars and researchers who want to keep up with the latest research in the field.
The Routledge Companion to Northeast India
Paperback
$$$
The Routledge Companion to Northeast India
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Routledge Handbook of Conflict Response and...
Save
This journal publishes articles on conflict resolution practice. It is particularly useful for practitioners who want to learn about new approaches and techniques for resolving conflicts.
Routledge Handbook of Conflict Response and...
Paperback
$$
Routledge Handbook of Conflict Response and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Seeking Stability Amidst Disorder: The Foreign...
Save
This journal publishes original research on peace and conflict studies. It is particularly useful for scholars and researchers who want to learn about the latest research on the causes and resolution of conflict.
Seeking Stability Amidst Disorder: The Foreign...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Course image
Rating
5.0 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star
Effort
4 to 6 hours per week for 8 weeks
Level
Intermediate
Via
edX
Institution
Université catholique de Louvain
Instructor
Stéphanie Demoulin
Language
English
Transcript
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops core conflict management strategies, arming learners for more effective professional and personal relationships
Provides a multi-modal approach to learning, engaging learners through videos, readings and discussions
Taught by Stéphanie Demoulin, a recognized expert in conflict management
Builds a foundational understanding of conflict, its causes and consequences, and how to manage it effectively
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