Part A: Course Overview

Course Title: Understanding Conflict and Mediation

Credit Points: 12.00

Terms

Course Code

Campus

Career

School

Learning Mode

Teaching Period(s)

HWSS2216

City Campus

Postgraduate

365H Global, Urban and Social Studies

Face-to-Face

 Sem 1 2017,
Sem 1 2018,
Sem 1 2019,
Sem 1 2020,
Sem 1 2021

Course Coordinator: Rajesh Sharma

Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 9925 2855

Course Coordinator Email: rajesh.sharma@rmit.edu.au

Course Coordinator Location: 37.4.16

Course Coordinator Availability: by appointment


Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities

You should have satisfactorily completed HWSS2214 Alternative Dispute Resolution before you commence this course.

Alternatively, you may be able to demonstrate the required skills and knowledge before you start this course.

Contact your course coordinator if you think you may be eligible for recognition of prior learning.


Course Description

This course considers the issue of conflict resolution and mediation in the courts and the community. You will learn about conflict resolution and mediation by engaging with theory and practical workshops. You will study different models of mediation practice including the problem-solving, storytelling, narrative and transformative models and critique western concepts of conflict resolution. The course will also address ethical dilemmas related to the practice of mediation.


Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development

Program Learning Outcomes
In this course you will develop the following program learning outcomes:

  • Use strategic, critical, creative, and analytical thinking to develop creative solutions to a range of dynamic problems associated with crime management and the justice system
  • Critically analyse, synthesise and reflect on advanced theories, principles, philosophies in the justice sector, both locally and globally, to extend and challenge knowledge and practice
  • Use a range of communication, conflict management and teamwork skills to work productively with a diverse range of people in justice environments
  • Use appropriate ethical ideas and reflective practice skills in addressing situations and problems in justice settings demonstrating cultural, social and environmental sensitivity


Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

  1. Differentiate and appraise different theories of conflict resolution;
  2. Critically analyse and apply legislation and case law relating to the practice of mediation in real life contexts;
  3. Critique various models of mediation and the practice of conflict resolution in Australia, and consider options for reform;
  4. Apply theoretical and practical skills in the practice of different models of mediation;
  5. Illustrate issues relating to gender, class, race, ethnicity, indigeneity, and disability in conflict resolution and mediation practice and assess ethical dilemmas in practice;
  6. Formulate dispute resolution options to solve legal problems


Overview of Learning Activities

This course is generally delivered in a face-to-face mode with a blend of learning activities, which include lectures, seminars, problem solving, guest speakers, presentations, case studies, videos, online activities and student lead discussions.


Overview of Learning Resources

RMIT will provide you with resources and tools for learning in this course through our online systems. There may be a prescribed text for this course.


Overview of Assessment

You will be assessed on how well you meet the course’s learning outcomes and on your development against the program learning outcomes.  

 Assessment Tasks  

Assessment Task 1: Mediator's Statement, 20%, CLO1, CLO3 and CLO4      

Assessment Task 2: Scenario/Mediation Plan/Simulations, 40%, CLO1, CLO3, CLO4       

Assessment Task 3: Essay/Simulations, 40%, CLO1, CLO2, CLO5 and CLO6  

Feedback will be given on all assessment tasks. 

If you have a long term medical condition and/or disability it may be possible to negotiate to vary aspects of the learning or assessment methods. You can contact the program coordinator or Equitable Learning Services if you would like to find out more. 

Your course assessment conforms to RMIT assessment principles, regulations, policies, procedures and instructions.