Conflict Management

Conflict Management

What are the goals of the module?

Build skills to constructively address conflicts between individuals and within organizations. Understand how competing interests and goals, power imbalances, and other factors influence the nature of conflict and management strategies.  Learn strategies to gain cooperation from team members, reduce stress and preserve integrity, improve working relationships, and enhance creativity.

Who is the audience for the module?

  • Mid-career faculty aspiring to an administrative position
  • Recent Department Chairs, Deans, or Vice Provosts
  • Experienced administrators seeking to refresh or enhance their skills

Why is the topic important?

For any leader responsible for managing people and academic programs, a significant amount of time is spent on dealing with conflict. When conflict is ignored or allowed to escalate, it can be extremely damaging in the workplace. When addressed openly, conflict can be very positive; it can be an effective way to identify and correct problems. Conflicting views give you a chance to learn more about yourself, explore views of others, and develop productive relationships.

The objectives of this module include,

  • Understanding different types of conflict
  • Being effective with difficult people
  • Diffusing difficult situations
  • Conflict resolution

Suggested options for module delivery

  • In-person workshop in small groups with discussion, role playing, and feedback, including opportunities for faculty to discuss current experiences
  • Online session with reading and case examples

Scenarios for discussion
[If applicable]

Resources for developing the module

Most UC locations have existing offices with expertise in conflict management and conflict resolution.  These offices can be available to assistant in module development and delivery. 

Primary Category

Interpersonal Skills