Courses

Leadership

Friction to Function: Using Conflict for Learning and Growth

Course Code: 2324

Many studies confirm the value of diversity to organizations. However, diversity often means the presence of contrasting points of view, which can lead to conflict. Conflicts are typically feared because we don’t know how to handle them. Yet, the longer we go without addressing rising conflict, the more stuck we become.

This course explores differences and conflict in the workplace using the Lewis Deep Democracy Method. This powerful method is rooted in psychology and is oriented towards an appreciation of differences and diversity. This course teaches you how to harness contrasting points of view and use them as a catalyst for learning and growth. We will use a combination of instruction, reflection, small group dialogue, and both between-class and during-class practice exercises in this course.

Foundational elements of this course include systems thinking, complexity theory, process-oriented psychology, and different dialogic methodologies and practices.

Performance Objectives: Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:

  • Understand clearly how conflict emerges.
  • Create conditions where others are able to say what needs to be said before frustration builds and conflicts emerge.
  • Prevent tensions and smaller conflicts from escalating into larger conflicts that are more difficult to work with or that might require outside support.
  • Skillfully get conflict out in the open once it emerges.
  • Use conflict as a catalyst for learning and growth.
  • Facilitate productive discussions in general.
  • Avoid common pitfalls in group communication.
  • Deal with a polarized issue one-on-one with a colleague or client.
  • Facilitate decision making in a way that is more efficient than a vote or consensus building.

Intended Audience: Leaders, managers, and supervisors.