GV946-7-SP-CO:
Conflict Resolution and Peace

The details
2024/25
Government
Colchester Campus
Spring
Postgraduate: Level 7
Current
Monday 13 January 2025
Friday 21 March 2025
15
22 April 2024

 

Requisites for this module
(none)
(none)
(none)
(none)

 

(none)

Key module for

MA L25212 Conflict Resolution,
MA L252EB Conflict Resolution,
MA L252EK Conflict Resolution,
MSC L25212 Conflict Resolution,
MSC L252EB Conflict Resolution,
MSC L252EK Conflict Resolution

Module description

The module exposes students to different political theories and approaches within the field of conflict resolution. It provides an overview and a basic framework for studying the evolving field of conflict resolution. The focus is on conflict resolution in inter- and intra-state issues. Students have the opportunity to explore conflict resolution methods such as mediation, negotiation, arbitration, collaborative problem solving, peacekeeping operations, and other applications. The module especially focuses on the practical as well as on the theoretical aspects of negotiation and mediation.


The students also have the opportunity to explore the applicability of various tools and techniques in problem-solving real cases of international conflict and to make use of negotiation and mediation techniques in role playing exercises and other types of simulations.

Module aims

The aims of this module are:



  • To teach students to think and write critically about conflict analysis and resolution using theories and methods of political science.

  • To develop the ability to think and make reasoned arguments using positive theories and supported by the best available empirical evidence.


These aims and objectives are achieved through a variety of teaching and learning strategies such as lectures, in-depth seminar sessions, simulations, reflective essays and independently produced assignments.

Module learning outcomes

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



  1. Evaluate the different methods of conflict resolution using case studies.

  2. Experience the practice of negotiation and mediation through a series of practical exercises conducted throughout the module.

  3. Relate the theory and the practice of the problems involved in the attempted resolution and/or management of international conflicts and intrastate conflicts.


The module enables students to acquire the following generic and transferable skills:



  1. Presenting verbal arguments to classroom peers.

  2. Production of short well-researched essays and reports

  3. Working to deadlines

  4. Conducting oneself in a scholarly and professional manner

Module information

No additional information available.

Learning and teaching methods

This is a 10-week module with teaching taking place in nine weeks for 2 hours using either the format of lecture/seminar or a workshop for all students.

One week will be an on-line simulation exercise which will take 3 hours. Teaching will be in weeks 16 - 25.

Bibliography

The above list is indicative of the essential reading for the course.
The library makes provision for all reading list items, with digital provision where possible, and these resources are shared between students.
Further reading can be obtained from this module's reading list.

Assessment items, weightings and deadlines

Coursework / exam Description Deadline Coursework weighting
Coursework   Quiz 1    5% 
Coursework   Quiz 2    5% 
Coursework   Quiz 3    5% 
Coursework   Quiz 4    5% 
Coursework   Assignment  18/03/2025  30% 
Coursework   Essay  22/04/2025  50% 

Exam format definitions

  • Remote, open book: Your exam will take place remotely via an online learning platform. You may refer to any physical or electronic materials during the exam.
  • In-person, open book: Your exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may refer to any physical materials such as paper study notes or a textbook during the exam. Electronic devices may not be used in the exam.
  • In-person, open book (restricted): The exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may refer only to specific physical materials such as a named textbook during the exam. Permitted materials will be specified by your department. Electronic devices may not be used in the exam.
  • In-person, closed book: The exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may not refer to any physical materials or electronic devices during the exam. There may be times when a paper dictionary, for example, may be permitted in an otherwise closed book exam. Any exceptions will be specified by your department.

Your department will provide further guidance before your exams.

Overall assessment

Coursework Exam
100% 0%

Reassessment

Coursework Exam
100% 0%
Module supervisor and teaching staff
Prof Han Dorussen, email: hdorus@essex.ac.uk.
Han Dorussen
Please contact govpgquery@essex.ac.uk

 

Availability
Yes
No
No

External examiner

Dr Kyriaki Nanou
Durham University
Associate Professor in European politics
Resources
Available via Moodle
No lecture recording information available for this module.

 

Further information
Government

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