Module Directory

This is an applied module designed to develop workplace conflict resolution skills in learners. With an emphasis on reflective practice, the module content encourages learners to reflect on their current approach to conflict management and how this can be improved. Through interactive case studies and real-world grievance and disciplinary examples, learners will gain knowledge in how to resolve individual conflicts, which is an essential element of Human Resource practice. Learners will also develop skills in alternative dispute resolution, including mediation skills. Given the applied nature of the module it is targeted at learners who work, have worked previously or who have ambitions to work in Human Resources and/or people management.

The aims of this module are:

• To provide students with an applied knowledge of how conflict arises in the workplace at both the collective and individual level and how it can be resolved effectively for sustainable outcomes.


• To provide students with the opportunity to reflect on their own conflict management style and the role of Human Resource professionals and people managers in de-escalating and resolving conflict.


• To provide students with practical knowledge in how to manage grievances and disciplinarians in the workplace.


• To introduce techniques in alternative dispute resolution, including mediation skills.

By the end of this module, students will be expected to be able to:

1. Critically examine the causes and implications of common collective and individual conflicts in the workplace.


2. Reflect on their own conflict management style and how this can be improved.


3. Demonstrate applied knowledge of managing disciplinary and grievances in the workplace


4. Identify and assess organisational responses to reports of bullying and harassment.


5. Analyse and apply alternative dispute resolution strategies and practices, including mediation skills.

Skills for Your Professional Life (Transferable Skills)

In addition, this module will also contribute to your development of the following employability skills:

• Critical Thinking


• Written and verbal Communication


• Research Skills


• Reflection Skills


• Mediation Skills

Module Cap Criteria

Students should choose this module via eNROL. Students are allocated on a first come first served basis.  Unsuccessful students will be contacted by EBS to choose an alternative module via eNROL.

Syllabus information

• Introduction to the module the underpinning causes and implications of collective and individual conflict in the workplace/and understanding parties and systems in conflict


• Conflict Management styles – reflecting on your current practice


• Individual conflict: grievance, discipline, unfair dismissal, constructive dismissal


• Organisational strategies for addressing bullying and harassment


• Alternative Dispute resolution and developing mediation skills.

This module will be delivered via:

• One 3-hour workshop

The module is delivered over the course of five weeks in face-to-face workshops. Weekly sessions are delivered in workshop format, which combines interactive lecture input of key concepts, group case study analysis, and interactive exercises. The Moodle page includes all learning materials including case studies that will be examined in class, which student will need to read in advance of the workshop. Students will be supported by the module leader to reflect on their performance in class exercises and undertake reflective activities that encourage them to review their applied knowledge of the module topics.