Revised 8/2008

PLS 250 - Introduction to Conflict Resolution (3 CR.)

Course Description

Teaches basic concepts and methods of conflict resolution, which includes the factors that lead to conflict, and how conflicts can be prevented or brought to an end through peaceful means. Focuses on national and international conflict resolution. Lecture 3 hours per week.

General Course Purpose

This course will introduce students to different perspectives on conflict and a variety of strategies used to resolve conflict, including peaceful means. Conflict and its various means of resolution will be presented in different contexts, emphasizing cross cultural and international conflict. Students will be encouraged to consider how they confront conflict in their personal lives, how they see conflict and its resolution carried out on the local level, and, likewise, at the international level. A variety of methods used to resolve conflict at all levels will be presented. Case studies and role playing will serve as useful pedagogical devices for this course, and the United States Institute of Peace will serve as an important resource for learning.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

Ability to use English language correctly and effectively as reflected in satisfactory scores on appropriate English proficiency examination.

Course Objectives

Upon completing the course, the student will be able to:

  • Analyze the different types of conflict in the world, which includes domestic conflict, intrastate and cultural conflict, and international conflict.
  • Uncover and assess the various factors that lead to all types of conflict.
  • Compare and contrast the wide variety of methods that are used to prevent, minimize, and end conflict, as well as methods utilized in post-conflict situations.
  • Scrutinize the various organizations and institutions, in both the private and public sectors, that attempt to resolve conflict.
  • Utilize methods of resolving conflict in role playing and case study situations.

Major Topics to Be Included

  • Introduction to conflict resolution.
  • Defining conflict.
  • Analyzing conflict.
  • The stages of conflict.
  • Negotiation techniques.
  • Interpersonal conflict.
  • Domestic/homo-cultural conflict.
  • International and inter-cultural conflict.
  • Pre-conflict approaches.
  • Conflict minimization techniques.
  • Post-conflict operations.
  • Conflict resolution organizations.
  • Case studies into selected conflict scenarios.
  • Introduction to peace studies.