Conflict Resolution [PTP.2011.27E]

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Type:

Course

Date:

21 Nov - 16 Dec 2011

Duration of event:

4 weeks

Location:

web-based

Programme area:

Peacekeeping

Fee:

Full Fee USD 500

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Website:

www.unitar.org/ptp

Event focal point email:

ptp@unitar.org

Other events details:

How to register
No registration/application possible

Background

Conflicts may take place over various issues ranging from cultural values, wealth distribution, access to natural resources, freedom of worship, oppression or a general sense of insecurity. When a conflict breaks out in a community or state, solutions to the hostilities may be found at the political level. For example, mediation, negotiation and dialogue are political processes that can often address grievances and help the resolution of tensions. Also, political participation through democratic processes may be a method to avoid conflict in the first place or at least to ensure the fair treatment of the causes of the conflict.

Event Objectives

The course outlines traditional and alternative techniques on conflict and conflict resolution. Inventories of existing conflict theories, typologies and practices are conducted. Attention is focused on traditional methods of conflict resolution (international law, diplomacy, top-negotiations, military force etc.) but alternative conflict resolution aspects are discussed (i.e. non-conventional conflict resolution strategies and civil societal strategies).

Learning Objectives

At the end of the course participants will be able to:

Distinguish the various schools of thought related to conflict and conflict causes;
Develop a good understanding of the various conflict resolution techniques;
Classify the various schools of thought within conflict resolution theories;
Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of various traditional, as well as alternative, methods applied within the field of conflict resolution;
Develop greater awareness of major issues related to peace operations together with the limits and impact of current practices.

Content and Structure

The course is composed of five modules, defined as:

Module 1: Introduction to Conflict Resolution
Module 2: Perspectives and Methods in Conflict Resolution
Module 3: Key Issues in Conflict Resolution
Module 4: Conflict Resolution and Peace Operations
Module 5: Impact and Limits of Conflict Resolution

Methodology

The course adopts instructional design methods that valorise experiential and collaborative learning to develop just-in-time skills of adult learners. It caters for personal learning styles that favour non-linear learning paths through multiple-instructional settings. The course is delivered in asynchronous mode and places particular emphasis on self-paced learning with participants being primarily responsible for their own learning throughout the duration of the course. Social activities support the learning process to facilitate networking and encourage knowledge sharing.

The course is moderated by international experts and includes:

Interactive components, presenting essential concepts and principles;
Optional reading material, intended to further clarify concepts and principles;
External links to additional resources (reports, papers, articles, documents and websites related to the lessons), hosted on a cybrary/database;
Glossary of terms/acronyms, provided as a learning tool throughout the course;
Case studies and scenarios to support the learning process;
Community discussion boards, to post questions and comments visible to the moderators and the other participants.

Targeted Audience

The course addresses civilians, military and police personnel eager to serve in peace operations. Participants are most likely potential candidates for (or already hold) operational positions in peace operations. They have a university degree in any subject or the equivalent of three years working experience in relevant fields. They have a good working knowledge of English, both written and oral, and familiarity with computers. No preliminary knowledge of the topic is required.

Additional Information

Participants with a passing grade of 80% on the assessment activities included throughout the course will be eligible for the certificate of completion. Participants who complete the assessment activities with a total score below 80% will receive a certificate of participation.