This module will examine the nature and causes of conflict, classify different types of conflict (e.g., Intra state, interstate), and analyse their characteristics. It will examine the curve of conflict and the various stages in conflict, and then look at how conflicts can be brought to an end by examining conflict management, settlement and resolution. It will also examine post-conflict situations and how to bring about a stable peace. It will use case studies to elucidate the concepts and theories.

Selected Posts

During three weeks of the module, you will post a 500-word answer to a set question onto a discussion board. The weeks will be determined by which group you are in. You will receive formative feedback on those posts and a grade. At the end of the module, for a specified deadline, you will submit your two best answers for formal assessment through Turnitin combined into one document. LO1 - LO2

Participation

You will have an opportunity to upload a 300-word response to the posts of other students during the eight weeks when you are not writing a 500-word post. Assuming these responses meet basic academic standards (coherent argumentation, evidence-based reasoning, a bibliography and in-text referencing) they will contribute to the student’s participation grade. LO1

Essay

You will be required to write a 3,000-word essay answering one of a number of set questions. Essays will be submitted and marked through Turnitin LOs 1-5

The main focus will be on self-instruction, within a tightly structured framework and relying largely (but not exclusively) on materials supplied. Week by week you will work through self-instructional course material, (delivered on Blackboard) which provides the framework and focus for reading key texts and papers and undertaking specific set tasks. This work will be undertaken on an individual basis, but at various points you will be expected to interact and share material with other students in your learning group and your tutor via a discussion board.

Module Learning Outcome

1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of typology of conflicts and their causes

University Learning Outcome:
Knowledge and learning; analysis

2. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of stages and characteristics of conflict

University Learning Outcome:
Knowledge and learning; enquiry analysis.

3. Critically apply the conceptual knowledge of conflict analysis to appropriate case studies

University Learning Outcome:
Analysis; reflection.

4. Critically evaluate the strategies for conflict prevention, management, settlement, and resolution

University Learning Outcome:
Analysis; enquiry; problem solving; reflection

A computer for accessing Blackboard, websites and electronic journals.¿
Course texts and module pack which will be delivered via the an electronic reading list for the course.

Ramsbotham, O. Woodhouse, T., and Miall, H. (2016) Contemporary Conflict Resolution, fourth edition, Polity Press.

Levinger, M. (2013) Conflict Analysis: Understanding Causes, Unlocking Solutions (United States Institute of Peace Academy Guides).

None

In this module you will examine the nature and causes of conflict, classify different types of conflict (e.g., Intra state, interstate), and analyse their characteristics. You will examine the curve of conflict and the various stages in conflict, and then look at how conflicts can be brought to an end by examining conflict management, settlement and resolution. You will also examine post-conflict situations and how to bring about a stable peace. You will use case studies to elucidate the concepts and theories addressed throughout the module.