Postgraduate course outline. Conflict Management and Resolution Program

2015 Postgraduate course outline Conflict Management and Resolution Program 1

Julián Facundo Rinaudo AusAID Scholarship (Pictured above left) I have never enjoyed studying this much. I find the subject area fascinating and profoundly useful at the professional and personal level. I also like the practical orientation of the program and the continuous and never ending support of the professors, advisors and the international office staff. In many different ways, all of them have been a motivation and inspiration to pursue my professional and personal interests. The program has helped me greatly in my personal development as well as professionally in the area of conflict resolution. The courses take you into a path of continual self-reflection towards self-knowledge. I appreciated the range of readings, the practical assignments, the liberty to organise your own time and direct your studies into your areas of interest. I also liked the interactive nature of the workshops and online discussions, helping me to become more attentive to my default settings. I had the opportunity to continuously develop a self-awareness of why I do what I do and how it affects others in positive as well as negative ways. 2 Enquiries 1800 246 446 www.jcu.edu.au

Turning conflict into opportunity for people and societies in the Tropics and worldwide. Conflict Analysis Negotiation Mediation Family Dispute Resolution Conflict Coaching Facilitation Workplace Conflict Management Conflict, Reconciliation and Peace Cross-Cultural Conflict Resolution About the program The JCU Conflict Management and Resolution Program is a dynamic and innovative program, offering postgraduate students and professional development participants a world-class learning experience. Our program is academically grounded and practice oriented. Our students develop the knowledge and skills to analyse, manage and resolve conflict in a wide variety of contexts. Graduates are prepared to work in professions that deal directly with conflict as well as in other professions that require conflict management skills. Students in our postgraduate Conflict Management and Resolution courses learn to: Evaluate complex conflict and related theories and standards for professional practice in conflict management and resolution. Critically analyse complex conflicts and conflict management systems. Provide specialised advice to assist individuals, groups and organisations to constructively manage conflict. Effectively communicate with, facilitate and support people in personal, group, organisational and cross-cultural conflict. Independently and critically reflect on and assess their own capabilities and performance, and make use of feedback as appropriate, to support personal and professional development. Exercise independent ethical judgment and initiative in conflict management and resolution practice and research. All our program staff are conflict management and resolution practitioners with extensive practical experience and a passion for the field. They are pracademics in the sense that they have strong academic grounding in conflict management and resolution theory, and they are also practitioners with real world experience in applying that knowledge in the field. Our students come from a wide variety of backgrounds and bring a rich diversity of experience to the program. Most have significant work experience although some come straight from other university degree programs. Our students are graduates from many different disciplines, including business, education, law, humanities, social science and health. Why study this program? Benefit from flexible study options. All courses are taught in intensive block workshops, and most are available for external study. Broaden your existing knowledge and skills. Our program is multidisciplinary and suits students from any background. Expand your career options. Our degrees provide a wide variety of employment opportunities. Become a better manager. Conflict management skills are essential in any position that involves working with people. Put your learning into practice right away. In every course you will develop a sound theoretical understanding of conflict dynamics and also engage in practical, skills-based learning that you can implement immediately in your personal and professional life. Get two degrees at once. Enrol in a joint MBA/Master of Conflict Management and Resolution and get an additional qualification to enhance your employment opportunities. Be professionally accredited. Our courses can lead to accreditation as a mediator under the Australian National Mediator Accreditation System, as a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner under the Australian Attorney- General s accreditation requirements, and as a REAL Conflict Coach through Conflict Coaching International. Gain practical experience through our clinical program, the Student Conflict Support Service, or an internship with a local or international organisation. Entry requirements To enrol in one of our postgraduate programs, students need an undergraduate degree (in any discipline) or other qualifications/experience deemed equivalent by the faculty. Anyone can participate in our subjects as a professional development participant. Advanced standing Students with a degree in a cognate discipline may be entitled to advanced standing of up to 12 credit points. Students with significant relevant work experience may be entitled to advanced standing of up to 24 credit points. 3

jcu.edu.au/conflictresolution Career opportunities Many of our graduates find that developing advanced conflict management and resolution skills helps their career progression in their current employment, particularly in management roles. Graduates of the Conflict Management and Resolution Program have successfully applied their knowledge and skills in a wide range of professions and industries. These include health, local government, higher education, emergency services, primary and secondary schools, construction, logistics, law, Federal politics, Defence, social work and general management settings; both in Australia and in other countries. Our program is also a valuable qualification for those seeking employment specifically in the field of Conflict Management and Resolution. Graduates can practice as mediators, conciliators, arbitrators and ombuds in private practice or with corporate or government organisations. There are also many opportunities in community development and international peace and security. Organisations such as the World Bank, United Nations, International Committee of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, International Rescue Committee, and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade offer employment opportunities in conflict-related areas. Some students decide to pursue PhD studies in Conflict Management and Resolution, contributing to research and the development of the field. Some Doctoral students take up academic positions in the field, while others use their specialised research in practice settings. Postgraduate Course Structure GRADUATE CERTIFICATE OF CONFLICT MANAGEMENT AND RESOLUTION Conflict Analysis Conflict Resolution Processes Ethics and Reflective Practice in Conflict Management and Resolution Research and Writing in Conflict Management and Resolution GRADUATE CERTIFICATE OF FAMILY DISPUTE RESOLUTION Conflict Analysis Mediation Family Dispute Resolution Advanced Family Dispute Resolution MASTER OF CONFLICT MANAGEMENT AND RESOLUTION Conflict Analysis Conflict Resolution Processes Ethics and Reflective Practice in Conflict Management and Resolution Research and Writing in Conflict Management and Resolution Plus 4-12 additional elective subjects. Core subjects CONFLICT ANALYSIS This subject equips students with the analytical skills necessary to deconstruct complex conflicts. Students undertake critical analysis of a range of conflict situations to assess conflict causes and dynamics and to become familiar with the process of systematically mapping a conflict. Students are introduced to a range of conflict intervention and management strategies. CONFLICT RESOLUTION PROCESSES This subject focuses on the different processes that are available for resolving conflict, including negotiation, conciliation, mediation, arbitration, litigation, facilitation, collaborative and restorative justice processes. Students consider the differences between the various processes and develop the capacity to evaluate which process is most suitable for a particular conflict situation. ETHICS AND REFLECTIVE PRACTICE IN CONFLICT MANAGEMENT AND RESOLUTION This subject considers the ethical issues that may arise in managing and resolving conflict in a wide range of contexts. Students learn about a range of ethical decision making processes. Students also explore the concept of reflection and what it means to be a reflective practitioner in the field of conflict management and resolution. RESEARCH AND WRITING IN CONFLICT MANAGEMENT AND RESOLUTION This subject provides a foundation for students to engage in research and writing in the field of conflict management and resolution. Students develop skills in conducting research and writing for a range of audiences, and learn how to interpret and apply research in the practice of conflict management and resolution. 4 Enquiries 1800 246 446 www.jcu.edu.au

Richard Dening Studying Master of Conflict Management & Resolution I chose JCU because of the range of courses on offer, including conflict coaching, mediation, and crosscultural conflict resolution. After completing his undergraduate degree, Richard Dening worked in a criminal justice program for offenders with a mental illness. Since beginning his Masters, he obtained a position as a Justice Mediation Officer with the Queensland Department of Justice and Attorney-General. He works in the area of restorative justice, coordinating meetings between adults charged with an offence, and their victims. While studying at JCU, I gained a variety of realworld accreditations and had the option to study online, in person or through block mode. Richard wants to continue working in the restorative justice area, as well as exploring transitional justice, non-violence, peace building, and working with groups disadvantaged by the criminal justice system. 5

Elective subjects NEGOTIATION This subject introduces students to a range of contemporary negotiation models with a particular focus on interest-based negotiation. Students explore the factors at play in negotiation and learn how to recognise and deal with them. Students analyse major elements and stages of a negotiation process and assess forms of intervention. Students distinguish various negotiation styles and reactions. Roleplays are an integral part of this subject, providing an opportunity for students to engage in experiential learning activities that facilitate the development of practical skills in negotiation. ADVANCED NEGOTIATION This subject focuses on the requirements for successful negotiation in complex situations. Students develop advanced skills, particularly in relation to negotiating in multi-party and multi-issue settings. The subject also focuses on the importance of reflective practice, and students participate in activities to develop their capacity to critically evaluate their own performance as a negotiator. MEDIATION This subject provides students with a strong grounding in facilitative mediation. Students develop the essential negotiation, mediation and communication skills required to practice as a mediator. Throughout the subject, students receive individual coaching on their mediation skills from experienced practitioners. The course meets the education and training requirements of the Australian National Mediator Accreditation System. After completing this course, students are eligible to sit the competency assessment for National Accreditation as a Mediator under the National Mediator Approval Standards. ADVANCED MEDIATION This subject builds on the theory and practice of mediation presented in the basic Mediation subject. It draws on the expertise of experienced mediators from different contexts. Students consider in more depth different models of mediation, advanced skills, ethical issues, and the future of mediation practice. This subject is designed to provide a deeper appreciation of the potential alternative pathways to assisting in the resolution of disputes. It also focuses on the importance of reflective practice. Students participate in activities to develop their capacity as reflective practitioners of mediation. CONFLICT COACHING This subject introduces students to conflict coaching as a tool to support individuals in conflict. Conflict coaching supports a person to enable them to constructively deal with conflict, or to assist the person to develop their conflict management skills generally. Conflict coaching is widely used as part of organisational conflict management systems as a way to support employees to manage their own conflicts without the need for more formal processes. Students learn how to coach using the REAL Conflict Coaching Model. Following successful completion of the subject and some additional assessment, participants can apply for accreditation as a REAL Conflict Coach through Conflict Coaching International. FACILITATION This subject examines the dynamics of facilitating multi-party conflicts and groups of stakeholders, and the process choices for managing them. The subject addresses multi-party disputes from the perspective of participants, mediators and facilitators. Students will learn process design, process management, and skills for facilitating multi-party communication. CONFLICT MANAGEMENT AND ENGAGEMENT This subject acknowledges that many conflicts may not be resolved at all, completely, or quickly. Students consider constructive approaches to managing ongoing conflict. Students learn about the characteristics of ongoing conflict and some of the factors that contribute to a conflict s intractability. They also learn a range of techniques for effectively managing ongoing conflict, including: handling conflict avoidance; using and responding to power wisely; appropriate conflict communication and developing support systems for conflicting parties. TOPICAL ISSUES IN CONFLICT MANAGEMENT AND RESOLUTION This subject focuses on current and topical issues in the field of conflict management and resolution, particularly recent developments in policy and practice. The subject may be taught by visiting guest lecturers with special expertise or experience in the field. In 2015 the subject focuses on conferencing. Group conferencing is a process that helps a group of people transform conflict into cooperation. This subject provides students with an understanding of the group conferencing process and the range of programs in which conferencing is currently used, including in education, justice, workplace relations, and various community programs. The theoretical component of the subject covers the coevolution of conferencing theory and practice over recent decades. The practical component of the subject provides an opportunity to practise the techniques necessary to facilitate an effective group conference, with coaching from an experienced practitioner. The subject content is consistent with the Best Practice Standards in Restorative Justice developed by various organisations, including the Victorian Association for Restorative Justice. WORKPLACE CONFLICT MANAGEMENT All workplaces have to manage conflict, both internal and external. There are high costs in not effectively managing workplace conflict, and organisations are recognising the importance of developing and implementing structures to facilitate conflict management and resolution. In this subject students examine conflict management design for organisations, and learn how to develop and operate formal and informal conflict resolution processes. Students consider employment, human resources and industrial relations issues for managers and executives. This subject will also equip students with practical skills for issue identification, conflict resolution and managing unsatisfactory performance in the workplace. 6 Enquiries 1800 246 446 www.jcu.edu.au

FAMILY DISPUTE RESOLUTION In this subject, students develop their mediation knowledge and skills in order to facilitate dispute resolution in a family law context. Students learn how to implement family dispute resolution strategies and how to create an environment that supports the safety of vulnerable parties in dispute resolution. Students also consider ethical issues in family practice. The subject covers the following two compulsory competencies for Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner Accreditation: Facilitate dispute resolution in the family law context (CHCDISP801B) and Create an environment that supports the safety of vulnerable parties in dispute resolution (CHCDISP804B). ADVANCED FAMILY DISPUTE RESOLUTION This subject will equip students to respond to domestic and family violence in family work and to operate in a family law environment. Students develop advanced skills in family dispute resolution and practise managing some of the more challenging situations that may arise in the family context. The subject covers the following two compulsory competencies for FDRP Accreditation: Respond to domestic and family violence in family work (CHCDFV811B) and Operate in a family law environment (CHCFAM505B). CROSS-CULTURAL CONFLICT RESOLUTION This subject examines mediation and negotiation theory and practice in cross-cultural contexts and focuses on the application of mediation in those settings. Mediation is a conflict resolution process created within a Western cultural system. The subject seeks to identify the limits of this Western model in cross-cultural conflict and negotiation. Students examine how these limitations might be addressed in the mediation design phase and the implications for the implementation of a dispute resolution system. The subject has a particular focus on mediation and negotiation involving Indigenous peoples. Case studies will be used to examine mediation design in particular cross-cultural circumstances. CONFLICT, RECONCILIATION AND PEACE This subject introduces students to concepts and theories of conflict and violence, peace and peace building and reconciliation. Students develop the capacity to apply these theoretical concepts to practical problems. Students also consider the major actors and strategies used in Australia and internationally in addressing issues of conflict, reconciliation and peace. Students develop familiarity with current peace building initiatives with a consideration of the United Nations policy framework. Students also analyse the strengths and limitations of different frameworks in addressing issues in contemporary conflict resolution settings. CONFLICT MANAGEMENT AND RESOLUTION RESEARCH PROJECT This subject consists of a supervised research project undertaken in an agreed area of study related to conflict management and resolution and the submission of a research essay. Students work with a supervisor in deciding upon a topic, planning the research and carrying it out. CONFLICT MANAGEMENT AND RESOLUTION PROJECT This subject involves a supervised practical project undertaken in an agreed area related to conflict management and resolution, and the submission of a project report. The project can include Work Integrated Learning placements or internships. 7

Work Integrated Learning The Conflict Management and Resolution Program emphasises learning through practice. In most of our subjects students participate in simulations and role plays, and many subjects involve real world case studies. WORKING WITH REAL CONFLICT PRACTITIONERS In many subjects experienced conflict resolution practitioners attend the workshops and provide students with individual feedback on their performance in simulations. WORKING WITH REAL CONFLICTS Students in our program work with current conflicts and real world case studies. They apply their knowledge and skills to topical local and international issues. WORKING IN REAL ORGANISATIONS Our program has collaborative partnerships with conflict management and resolution organisations, which provide students with practical on the job training opportunities. During internships with local and international organisations students can observe and engage in conflict management and resolution work in the field. STUDENT CONFLICT SUPPORT SERVICE SCSS is a clinical program run in conjunction with the postgraduate Conflict Management and Resolution Program at James Cook University. Selected students from the Masters, under the supervision of experienced practitioners and staff of the program, provide free conflict support services to students. Masters students can get practical experience in facilitation, mediation and conflict coaching with real clients while being mentored by experienced practitioners. FAMILY DISPUTE RESOLUTION PLACEMENT Supervised practice is a significant component of the educational development of all human service professionals, and is now essential for those who wish to become accredited under the Commonwealth Attorney-General s requirements for Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners. Our program has relationships with local FDR providers and can support students to obtain their supervised practice required for accreditation. The JCU lecturers facilitated my mediation accreditation and delivered real world experiences through class role plays based on actual cases. I thoroughly enjoyed the course. Stephen Savage Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner 8 Enquiries 1800 246 446 www.jcu.edu.au

This program has helped me to develop skills and insights into conflict that have enhanced my personal and professional interactions. Rikki Mawad (Pictured right) Photo by Thomas Moore Political Adviser, Office of Rebecca White MP, Member for Lyons; Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business; Parliamentary Secretary for Cost of Living SANDRA GLAISTER Senior Consultant, Care Source The Conflict Management and Resolution Program has enhanced my recruitment skills and has assisted me in managing relationships and workplace conflicts. I would recommend this program to everyone regardless of your work area. PAULA LA ROSA Deputy Director, Centacare Townsville The Conflict Management and Resolution subjects have been invaluable to my professional growth as a senior manager of a welfare agency and have empowered me as a leader. The outcome for the agency is staff being more competent and confident to address their conflicts early and managers being used for support, rather than being required to manage conflict that they are not directly involved in. I am more confident and competent to manage my own situations and to guide and support others. CHARMIAN MCKEAN Manager, Army Museum of North Queensland Current Masters student As a manager, dealing every day with the unpredictability of people, studying Conflict Management and Resolution dramatically increased my awareness of conflict and how it affects people. Through completing this program I am now more aware of the impact of conflict in the workplace and I have developed the relevant skills to deal with it. It has changed my approach and whole focus in problematic situations and in general everyday negotiations, whether at work, at home, with my family, or with the general public. QURRATA AYUNI Researcher, Constitutional Court of Republic of Indonesia This program helped me to find other ways to deal with conflict, rather than the high cost of using the court system. It also especially changed my mindset of seeing conflict as trouble to seeing conflict also as an opportunity. Besides theory, this program provided me with practical skills that are useful in both my organisational and personal life. The emphasis on cross-cultural perspectives ensured that I could apply my learning in the program to Indonesia s multicultural context. SOTHUNVISOTH NUP AusAID Scholarship I am from Cambodia where I completed my Undergraduate and Master Degrees in Law and a postgraduate Diploma of Magistrate Professions. I came to JCU to study Conflict Management and Resolution. When I return to Cambodia I will work for the Khmer Rouge Tribunal implementing my new reconciliation and peacebuilding skills. The course has provided me with a solid foundation of practical skills and theory for resolving disputes, which can be applied in many different human contexts. 9

Applying to JCU Entry requirements AUSTRALIAN STUDENTS Direct entry for any Master degree program requires at least the completion of an Australian equivalent undergraduate bachelor degree in any discipline. Completion of a Graduate Certificate will also be acceptable. While it is also preferable to have several years of work and management experience, it is not a compulsory entry requirement for any Master. Entry into any Graduate Certificate degree program requires either an Australian equivalent undergraduate bachelor degree or practical experience recognised by the Dean, Colege of Business, Law and Governance as equivalent. Entry into any of the joint degrees must satisfy the entry requirements of all faculties, but generally requires an Australian equivalent undergraduate bachelor in any discipline. For more information contact the Associate Professor Samantha Hardy (see Contact Information). INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS In addition to academic admission requirements, applicants need to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. For further information, consult JCU s International Student Prospectus, available from the International Student Centre, (see Contact Information) or visit: www.jcu.edu.au/international. Application process AUSTRALIAN STUDENTS Information can be obtained from the Conflict Management and Resolution Program website: www.jcu.edu.au/conflictresolution or by contacting Associate Professor Samantha Hardy (see Contact Information). INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS International students can apply online (visit website: www.jcu.edu.au/international) or by contacting the International Student Centre (see Contact Information). 10 Enquiries 1800 246 446 www.jcu.edu.au

The program has taught me a range of skills which have assisted me to significantly advance my career as an advisor and project manager. Priyanka Saha Senior Solicitor, National Children s and Youth Law Centre Masters graduate 2013 Contact us Associate Professor Samantha Hardy Director, Conflict Management and Resolution Program James Cook University Townsville Qld 4811 T. 07 4781 6775 F. 07 4781 4080 E. cmr@jcu.edu.au INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS James Cook International Townsville QLD 4811 Australia T. + 61 7 4781 5601 F. + 61 7 4781 5988 E. InternationalStudentCentre@jcu.edu.au www.jcu.edu.au/conflictresolution The information in this brochure is intended as a general guide and was correct at the time of printing. Prospective students should contact the University to confirm admission requirements and availability of courses. JCU reserves the right to alter any course or admission requirements without prior notice. James Cook University CRICOS Provider Number : 00117J 11

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