COMM 4050 Communication and Conflict
This course is designed to facilitate practical, theoretical, and critical analyses of the role of communication in interpersonal conflict and negotiation. The student will examine forms of conflict and negotiation, including occurrences in interpersonal, group, organizational, and cultural contexts. the course provides the student with practical knowledge for understanding the benefits of conflict, recognizing its evolution, and applying strategies for dealing with different people in a variety of contexts. The course blends theory, research, and practical skills to help the student identify, assess, and manage communication in conflict. Prerequisite: Completion of
COMM 1030,
COMM 2130 or
MGT 2130. (3 lect.)
Major Topics
- The Nature of Conflict
- Conflict Theories, Styles, and Framework
- Mediation and Negotiation
- Negotiating for Mutual Gains
- Emotional Intelligence
- Interpersonal and Organizational Communication in Conflict
- Third-Party Intervention
Outcomes
In order to successfully complete this course, the student will:
1. Integrate theories and research related to negotiation and conflict management.
2. Analyze the role of communication in conflict and conflict management processes.
3. Examine the components of conflict that lead to constructive or destructive communication patterns.
4. Distinguish effective conflict management strategies for a given situation.
5. Research processes of negotiation, mediation, facilitation, and consensus building.
6. Design an outline of strategic communication tools in conflict management.
7. Demonstrate communication that supports principled negotiation and mediation.
8. Evaluate the effectiveness of strategies, methods, and responses that are appropriate to a given conflict situation.