This module introduces students to the theory and practice of negotiation and conflict handling in an employment relations context. Using case studies of industrial relations disputes, it provides opportunities for students to develop their skills in analysing and handling workplace conflict. The role and operation of key 3rd party dispute resolution institutions are reviewed as well as different approaches to conflict management. Students are encouraged to recognise opportunities for and work toward ethical and responsible conflict resolution.

Negotiation theory: the nature of negotiation; the dual concerns model; strategy and tactics of distributive bargaining; strategy and tactics of integrative bargaining; negotiation planning and strategy; negotiation breakdown causes and cures; the communication and persuasion processes in negotiation; power in negotiation. The negotiation process: the use of negotiation and presentation skills; the phases of negotiation and the use of appropriate techniques at each stage; active listening and effective communication and persuasion; effective trading techniques and other tactics of conflict resolution; concluding the agreement; providing for breakdown. The practice of negotiation: team preparation for dispute resolution simulation.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Discuss the process of negotiation as a method of conflict resolution. Work collaboratively to analyse a workplace conflict situation. Apply the theory of conflict management to a practical workplace case/scenario. Describe the role of 3rd parties in a workplace conflict resolution situation. Integrate the perspectives of different stakeholders in a conflict situation.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Cultivate an ethical, collaborative, and reflective disposition toward negotiation, embracing active listening, mutual respect, and constructive communication as core principles of professional engagement.

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Students will be taught through the combined use of lectures, labs, video analysis, and a range of case studies for both individual and team analysis. Students will also engage in individual and team-based simulations. The module uses a research led, evidence-based approach to learning and problem-based case studies adapted from current real-life disputes and legal cases form the basis for learning and assessment. Students must identify and research their own real-life case and analyse using key module concepts and theories. Thus, students will have the opportunity become curious (problem-solver, critical, knowledgeable, inquisitive, imaginative), having to use their knowledge to critically assess information, and to become articulate (strong inter and intra-personal skills, empathetic, collaborative) and courageous (tenacious, resilient, robust, transformative, enterprising, innovative), working together to find innovative and ethical solutions. Students must work collaboratively and proactively engage in self-directed learning as part of their case analysis and presentation and articulate proposals for solution. Students will thus develop the UL graduate attributes of agile (open-minded, independent, adaptive, flexible, responsive in actions) and responsible (personally, socially, professionally, sustainably and ethically responsible).