Negotiation
August 13 – November 12, 2023 | 3 law school credits
Faculty: Sharon Press, Professor of Law, Director, Dispute Resolution Institute
This course will focus on developing skills through simulated negotiations, case studies, exercises and class discussion, with readings that emphasize practical application. The goals of the negotiation course include the following: 1) providing students with hands-on experience and practice in negotiating deals and resolving disputes; 2) sharing with students proven models and frameworks for effective negotiations; 3) exposing students to a variety of negotiation contexts and approaches; 4) acquainting students with the ethical and legal issues surrounding negotiation practice and implementation; and 5) giving students a broader perspective on a lawyer’s role beyond the adversarial method to resolving conflict.
Theories of Conflict
August 13 – October 8, 2023| 2 law school credits
Faculty: Ken Fox, Professor, Hamline University, Senior Fellow, Dispute Resolution Institute
This interdisciplinary course introduces students to important theoretical perspectives on our understanding of conflict and conflict response. Specifically, students explore the biological/physiological, psychodynamic, social/psychological, communication and sociological/political perspectives on conflict by reading and discussing major theoretical works within each perspective. Emphasis is on comparing and distinguishing key dimensions of these theories, such as the nature and sources of conflict, conflict escalation, conflict response, and the nature of the third party role. Classes follow an interactive format. Using case studies, exercises, and group discussion to draw upon personal experiences, including those involving race and social identity, the course explores the usefulness of each perspective to understanding the experience of conflict.