module specification

This module will provide students with an overview of both the theory and practice of contemporary conflict resolution. It examines an array of conflict resolution mechanisms and strategies, including conflict prevention, negotiation, mediation, arbitration, peacekeeping and peacebuilding. It also explores a variety of concrete cases relating to modern, post-Cold War conflicts. This is a core module for the BA International Relations with Peace and Conflict Studies pathway.

Its aims are to:

• Examine a range of approaches to the cessation of contemporary conflicts and the conditions that may be necessary for peace.

• Explore the differing mechanisms and strategies for securing peace, including negotiation, mediation and arbitration.

• Focus upon both the domestic and international actors involved in these processes.

• Provide students with an understanding of relevant theories and empirical material for comparative analysis.

None.

Available to Study Abroad students.

The syllabus includes:

• Causes and theories of conflict; the nature of contemporary ethnic, religious and nationalist conflicts; the meaning(s) of peace and conflict resolution. (LO 1-3)

• Approaches and strategies of conflict resolution, including conflict prevention, negotiation, mediation and arbitration. (LO 2)

• Examining case studies. (LO 3)

Teaching will comprise weekly lectures and seminars. Lectures will focus on the approaches, theories and analysis of Conflict Resolution. Seminars will involve small group discussions, debates and group work.

Reflective and independent learning is encouraged through the research and writing of an extensive case study report, and also through the interactive lectures and seminar discussions.

The module makes extensive use of blended learning, primarily through its dedicated Weblearn site, including interactive use of the mail and discussion tools, module information, lecture PowerPoint slides, full reading lists, and scanned copies of key texts not otherwise electronically available.

Although it is primarily concerned with the academic study of conflict resolution, this module provides students with a range of opportunities to enhance their employability, especially the enhancement of students’ communication, research and writing skills through the essay and case study components of assessment, and seminar discussions.

Students will be required to attend all classes, to engage in the set activities, to prepare in advance by attempting assigned readings, to complete coursework by deadlines, and to reflect and act on the feedback they receive.

On successful completion of this module, students will have gained:

1. A critical appreciation of the causes and nature of contemporary conflicts.

2. An understanding of some of the principal theories and mechanisms of conflict resolution, including the liberal peace thesis, humanitarian intervention, conflict prevention, negotiation, mediation and arbitration.

3. An ability to explore and understand the value of case studies.

Assessment is based on the following elements:

FORMATIVE
1. A classroom debate based on the topic of the lecture, with feedback given to students at the end of the class. This will take place in week 4.

SUMMATIVE
2. An essay, worth 100% of the final grade. It will be 3000 words in length. This must be submitted by week 13.

https://londonmet.rl.talis.com/search.html?q=Gi6002

Useful Websites

• Stockholm International Peace Research (http://www.sipri.org)

• Peace Research Institute Oslo (http://www.prio.org)

• Uppsala University, Department of Peace and Conflict Research (http://www.per.uu.se)

• Beyond Intractability (http://www.beyondintractability.org)

• Virtual Library: Peace, Conflict Resolution and International Security (http://www2.etown.edu/vl/peace.html)

• International Alert (http://www.international-alert.org)