Course Content

Students take courses in three units

Unit 1: Understanding the Nature of Conflict: Aspects and Dynamics of Conflict

This unit focuses on how conflict arises and the stages in the development of conflicts. It examines the role of power, cultural aspects of conflict, and the causes and consequences of prejudice. It analyses conflict and reconciliation as they are experienced in community, ethnic, corporate, commercial, political, gender, and intra and inter-church contexts.

Unit 2: Theories and Processes of Conflict and Dispute Resolution

This unit focuses on principles and processes of conflict resolution, remedy, and redress, as well as developments in restorative justice. It reviews arbitration, adjudication and alternative dispute resolution processes.

Unit 3: Skills

This is an integrated theory and skills unit in which students consider how to effectively manage and resolve disputes. They practice the skills necessary to be effective in mediation, facilitation, and negotiation.

Assessment

The assessment consists of two essays of approximately 4,000 - 4,500 words each, a 4,000 - 4,500 written assignment, and on a practical skills-based assessment to be completed by 1 August. One essay will focus on the underlying theory and philosophy of conflict, the other essay will focus on the theories and processes of conflict resolution. The written assessment will focus on aspects and dynamics of conflict.

The practical assessment will focus on the different processes and skills for moving beyond conflict, and will be on an area of specialization (which may be related to a particular work context). To complete the Diploma satisfactorily a pass mark of 40% must be achieved in each of the four assessments.