This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
The course provides an overview of the broad field of international conflict analysis and resolution. Students have the opportunity to explore the motivations driving different forms of conflict, including interpersonal, group and civil violence. Students will also be exposed to a range of theories and approaches used to understand violent conflict, and a number of different methods of conflict resolution (e.g. negotiation, mediation, peacekeeping operations, and transitional justice.) The approach is interdisciplinary and juxtaposes traditional approaches used to study conflict management with new scientific studies of conflict and cooperation.
Total contact hours: 22
Private study hours: 128
Total study hours: 150
This is a required module for the BA in War and Conflict, and is an optional module for all other programmes in the School of Politics and International Relations.
Individual Essay, 2500 words OR Group Essay, 3000 words (50%)
Exam, 2 hours (50%)
Reassessment methods: 100% coursework
Ramsbotham, O. H. Miall; & T. Woodhouse. (2016). Contemporary Conflict Resolution: The Prevention, Management and Transformation of Deadly Conflicts, Cambridge: Polity. (4th Edition).
Barash, D. and C. Webel. (2017). Peace and Conflict Studies, 4th ed., Thousand Oaks, Sage Publications.
Crocker, C. et al. (2007). Leashing the Dogs of War, Washington, D.C.: USIP Press.
Fisher, R., W.L. Ury, and B. Patton (1991). Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In, 2nd Edition. New York: Penguin Books. (or any other edition).
Bercovitch, J. and R. Jackson (2009). Conflict Resolution in the 21st century: Principles, Methods, and Approaches. Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Understand and critically assess various definitions of conflict
2. Present a basic understanding of various approaches to the analysis of international conflict
3. Appreciate the diverse range of methods used to study international conflict and conflict resolution, in particular the scientific approach.
4. Understand the diverse views on conflict resolution
5. Critically analyse the strengths and weaknesses of different conflict resolution approaches
6. Apply knowledge gained in the module to cases of international conflict
The intended generic learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Engage critically with political phenomena, including the vocabulary, concepts, theories and methods of political debate
2. Examine and evaluate different interpretations of political events and solutions to problems
3. Describe, evaluate and apply different approaches involved in collecting, analysing and presenting political information
4. Develop reasoned arguments, supported by relevant information, and exercise critical thinking
5. Orally communicate ideas effectively and fluently
6. Communicate ideas effectively and fluently in writing
7. Use information and communication technology for bibliographical searches, data acquisition, data analysis and presentation
8. Work independently, demonstrating initiative, self-organisation and time-management
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