Managing Workplace Conflict

Unit code: BMO5567 | Study level: Postgraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
City Campus
Prerequisites
N/A
Overview
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Overview

This unit of study examines the approaches, strategies, tactics and techniques essential to taking a positive approach to conflict. The Unit will provide an overview of the major developments and issues concerning alternative dispute resolution (ADR) and incorporates important new developments in the field including in neuroscience, affect and conflict theory. The Unit covers the history and development of ADR in Australia and seeks to describe and contextualise all of the key processes. It is a comprehensive approach to the subject matter which will enable you to understand and apply the key skills necessary for conflict resolution.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Critically review theories about the nature of conflict in the workplace as they relate to specific industries/sectors as applied to local, national or global organisations;
  2. Critique the current debates about mediation and formal processes of Conciliation in Fair Work Australia;
  3. Deconstruct the causes of interpersonal conflict in the workplace and the applicability of different types of mediation processes available to resolve such conflict to illustrate the dynamics of workplace communities and individual’s responsibilities within these;
  4. Decode the issues of neutrality with regard to choice of mediator and of the handling of potential power imbalances between the parties to interpersonal conflict;
  5. Reflectively commentate upon the formal processes at workplace and tribunal level in handling disputes arising from Enterprise Bargaining Agreements and relevant discrimination and Occupational Health and Safety legislation; and
  6. Conceptually map the role of HR departments and unions in formal dispute resolution processes.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Report
|
Grade: 30%
Analysis of a major workplace dispute using Conflict theories.
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 40%
Document and enact Mediation exercise.
Assessment type: Journal
|
Grade: 30%
Reflective Journal - Analyses of different workplace conflicts

Required reading

Conflict Management: A practical Guide,
Condliffe, P., 2019,| Lexis Nexis, Australia.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Master of Management
BMMN | Masters (coursework) degree | Duration: 2 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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