Conflict Resolution

Teacher(s): Julie Shackelford

Lessons: 4/week

Make no mistake: conflict is a part of life. Whether at work, at home, on the street, or on the global stage, conflict is everywhere. All of us have been in conflicts before, and all of us will be in conflicts again. Maybe you’re even in the middle of a conflict right now. That’s okay! Not all conflict is bad, nor is it inherently negative. How conflict is handled makes all the difference.

This folk high school class takes an active approach to learning to help students improve their ability to manage and resolve conflict. Because all conflict – whether between two individuals or two nations – is ultimately a function of the relationship between persons, in this class, particular emphasis will be given to the “interpersonal” nature of conflict. Throughout the course, students will explore key theories, models, and frameworks for understanding and resolving conflict in use today and actively work towards becoming better peacekeepers in their own lives.

The learning methods include analysis of real life situations, simulations, role plays, games, discussions, lectures.

Reflection is encouraged at both the individual and group level to further develop students’ ability to handle conflict situations in their own lives, deepen their understanding of the underlying dynamics of interpersonal conflict management, and strengthen their skills as peacemakers.