KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY
GRADUATE COURSE PROPOSAL OR REVISION,
Cover Sheet (10/02/2002)
Course Number/Program Name
CM 7310
Department Political Science & International Affairs
Degree Title (if applicable) Master of Science in Conflict Management
Proposed Effective Date Spring 2014
Check one or more of the following and complete the appropriate sections:
New Course Proposal
X Course Title Change
Course Number Change
X Course Credit Change
Course Prerequisite Change
X Course Description Change
Sections to be Completed
II, III, IV, V, VII
I, II, III
I, II, III
I, II, III
I, II, III
I, II, III
Notes:
If proposed changes to an existing course are substantial (credit hours, title, and description), a new course with a
new number should be proposed.
A new Course Proposal (Sections II, III, IV, V, VII) is required for each new course proposed as part of a new
program. Current catalog information (Section I) is required for each existing course incorporated into the
program.
Minor changes to a course can use the simplified E-Z Course Change Form.
Submitted by:
Approved
Sherrill W. Hayes
Faculty Member
9/9/2013_
Date
Not Approved
Department Curriculum Committee Date
Approved
Approved
Approved
Approved
Approved
Approved
Not Approved
Department Chair
Date
College Curriculum Committee
Date
College Dean
Date
GPCC Chair
Date
Dean, Graduate College
Date
Not Approved
Not Approved
Not Approved
Not Approved
Not Approved
Vice President for Academic Affairs Date
Approved
Not Approved
President
Date
KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY
GRADUATE COURSE/CONCENTRATION/PROGRAM CHANGE
I.
Current Information (Fill in for changes)
Page Number in Current Catalog
___
Course Prefix and Number CM 7310
___
Course Title: Critical Knowledge and Skills of Conflict Management:
Interpersonal, Intergroup, and Community Conflict,
Workplace/Organizational Conflict
Class Hours
4 ____Laboratory Hours____0___Credit Hours___4_____
Prerequisites
___
Description (or Current Degree Requirements)
Students examine the dynamics of interpersonal and intergroup conflict with emphasis on
the role of identity in conflict. Students will further examine the role of community
dispute resolution in ADR and will apply mediation skills to problems of intervention in
workplace/organizational conflicts.
II.
Proposed Information (Fill in for changes and new courses)
Course Prefix and Number ____CM 7310_______________________________
Course Title __Interpersonal, Intergroup, and Community Conflict___ _________
Class Hours
3 ___Laboratory Hours___0____CreditHours___3_____
Prerequisites None
Description (or Proposed Degree Requirements)
Students examine the dynamics of and interventions in interpersonal and
intergroup conflicts, including the role of identity and community dispute
resolution in contemporary ADR. Students will sharpen the skills and tools they
learned in previous MSCM coursework.
III.
Justification
CM 7310, currently a four-credit content course, covers a broad range of topics
within the MSCM curriculum. The spring sequence for MSCM students includes
a 3-credit Research Methods course, the 4-credit course covering interpersonal,
intergroup, community, and organizational conflict, and 2 credits of Advanced
Skills clinics, which have become 2.5 to 3 weekends and often includes a
workplace/organizational clinic.
As part of a larger curriculum revision, we are requesting that 7310 become a 3credit course focusing only on interpersonal and intergroup/community conflicts.
Having 7310 become a 3-credit course allows for more focus on the important
interpersonal/intergroup content, which focuses on identity-based conflict, a core
component of the Association for Conflict Resolution Model Higher Education
Guidelines. In order not to lose the important workplace/organizational content
we are submitting a separate course proposal to create a standalone 1-credit clinic
course (CM 7315). This will allow the content to remain a required part of the
curriculum, but allow students to focus on demonstrating skill application in
workplace settings rather than assigning another analysis paper.
In addition to the 3 credits in the revised 7310 being more logically connected, a
3-3-1-1-1 sequence in spring semester helps balance faculty teaching loads, offer
more options for students, and possibilities for aligning with curriculum in the
PhD in International Conflict Management.
IV.
Additional Information (for New Courses only)
Instructor: Dr. Heather Pincock
Texts:
Wilmot, William W. and Joyce L. Hocker. 2011. Interpersonal Conflict (8/e). New York:
McGraw-Hill. (“WH” below)
Raines, Susan S. 2012. Conflict Management for Managers: Resolving Workplace,
Client, and Policy Disputes. Wiley
Additional readings as assigned, provided in class
Prerequisites: Admission to MSCM program or permission of instructor
Objectives:
Following this course, students will be able to:
 Understand theories learned in the fall semester in greater depth and apply
them to interpersonal and intergroup conflicts
 Analyze the dynamics and processes that occur within interpersonal and
intergroup conflicts, and apply theoretical frameworks that can assist us in
such analysis
 Apply skills and tools learned in Conflict Theory, The ADR Continuum,
Negotiation, and Mediation Clinics in order to select appropriate intervention
strategies for interpersonal and intergroup conflicts
Instructional Method
 Lecture, readings, role-plays, and videos. Students and faculty members will engage
in analytical discussions throughout the course.
Method of Evaluation
1. Self-Reflection Paper (35%)
2. Identity-based Conflict Analysis Report (55%)
3. Attendance and Participation (10%)
1. Self-Reflection Paper (35%)
In this paper you will analyze and reflect on an interpersonal conflict in which
you were a primary party; you should use a conflict distinct from the one you
used for the Conflict Theory “memo to self” and the Negotiation Theory “SelfReflection Paper #3”. While you will need to provide some description of the
conflict context and process, the bulk of your paper will be dedicated to analysis
and application of relevant course concepts. Please dedicate no more than the first
400 words or your paper to a background overview of the conflict. In the
remaining sections of your paper, you will analyze your conflict using relevant
concepts covered in class and in the assigned readings from Interpersonal Conflict
(explicit reference to the Wilmot and Hocker text is required). In order to
accomplish the appropriate breadth and depth of analysis, it is recommended that
you employ between three and five concepts in your paper. Your paper will
conclude with some recommendations and/or “lessons learned” that will assist
you in handling similar future conflicts. The analysis section of your paper should
be between 1400 and 1800 words. Papers should therefore be between 1800 and
2200 words in total and double spaced.
2. Identity-based Conflict Analysis Report (55%)
In a report of between 2,000 and 2,500 words (show word count), examine an
inter-group conflict in which identity plays an important role. Place yourself in
the role of a trusted advisor to an appropriate official, s/he could be governmental
(e.g., mayor, governor, or president) or non-governmental (e.g., UN general
secretary, Director of an NGO). Organize your report into the following sections:
(1) conflict overview, (2) analytical frameworks, (3) recommended interventions.
In the conflict overview (no more than 400 words), present a brief history of the
conflict to your audience. Within the ‘analytical frameworks’ section, identify
three or four identity-based conflict concepts related to the conflict and explain to
your audience how each has been demonstrated in this conflict—to do so you’ll
have to introduce each concept tightly, then present illustrations of the concept in
action within this conflict. Close the paper with one or more recommended
interventions that the official might initiate to improve the conflict; here, too, be
sure to explain to the official your rationale for each recommendation. As a
research paper, this report should involve the integration of at least six outside
scholarly sources (academic articles, books, etc.) in addition to the use of relevant
assigned course readings. While news media sources may be cited for background
information, they do not count towards this total. Explicit reference to and proper
citation of all sources is required.
3. Attendance and Participation (10%)
Your full and active participation is required both to make this class successful
and to enable your learning of the course material. Full and active participation
means that you 1) arrive on time and attend all classes, 2) complete all readings
assignments prior to class and be able to discuss them in a focused and reflective
manner, and 3) participate actively in all class discussions and exercises. Please
note that your grade may be lowered for unexcused absences, tardiness, disrespect
for others or inadequate participation during in-class exercises and discussion.
V.
Resources and Funding Required (New Courses only)
Resource
Amount
Faculty
Other Personnel
Equipment
Supplies
Travel
New Books
New Journals
Other (Specify)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
TOTAL
0
Funding Required Beyond
Normal Departmental Growth
$0
VI. COURSE MASTER FORM
This form will be completed by the requesting department and will be sent to the Office of the
Registrar once the course has been approved by the Office of the President.
The form is required for all new courses.
DISCIPLINE
COURSE NUMBER
COURSE TITLE FOR LABEL
(Note: Limit 30 spaces)
CLASS-LAB-CREDIT HOURS
Approval, Effective Term
Grades Allowed (Regular or S/U)
If course used to satisfy CPC, what areas?
Learning Support Programs courses which are
required as prerequisites
Conflict Management
CM 7310
Interpersonal Intergroup Comm
3-0-3
Spring 2014
S/U
APPROVED:
________________________________________________
Vice President for Academic Affairs or Designee __
VII Attach Syllabus
CM 7310 Interpersonal and Intergroup Conflict
3 credits
Professor: Dr. Heather Pincock
Class hours: Friday 3:00pm-8:00pm/ Saturday 8:30am-4:30pm
Office Hours:
Email:
Phone:
Prerequisite: Admission to MSCM Program or permission of instructor
Course Description:
Students examine the dynamics of interpersonal and intergroup conflict with emphasis
on the role of identity in conflict. Students will further examine the role of community
dispute resolution in ADR and will apply mediation skills to problems of intervention in
workplace/organizational conflicts.
Course Objectives:
Following this course, students will be able to:
 Understand theories learned in the fall semester in greater depth and apply them to
interpersonal and intergroup conflicts

Analyze the dynamics and processes that occur within interpersonal and intergroup
conflicts, and apply theoretical frameworks that can assist us in such analysis

Apply skills and tools learned in Conflict Theory, The ADR Continuum, Negotiation,
and Mediation Clinics in order to select appropriate intervention strategies for
interpersonal and intergroup conflicts
Course Readings:
 Wilmot, William W. and Joyce L. Hocker. 2011. Interpersonal Conflict (8/e). New
York: McGraw-Hill. (“WH” below)

Raines, Susan S. 2012. Conflict Management for Managers: Resolving
Workplace, Client, and Policy Disputes. Wiley

Additional readings as assigned, provided in class
Course Requirements
Self-Reflection Paper (35%)
Due: Sunday, March 10th by 11:59pm. Email to hpincock@kennesaw.edu
In this paper you will analyze and reflect on an interpersonal conflict in which you were
a primary party; you should use a conflict distinct from the one you used for the Conflict
Theory “memo to self” and the Negotiation Theory “Self-Reflection Paper #3” (consult
the professor if you have any questions about choosing an appropriate experience for
this assignment). While you will need to provide some description of the conflict context
and process, the bulk of your paper will be dedicated to analysis and application of
relevant course concepts. Please dedicate no more than the first 400 words or your
paper to a background overview of the conflict. In the remaining sections of your paper,
you will analyze your conflict using relevant concepts covered in class and in the
assigned readings from Interpersonal Conflict (explicit reference to the Wilmot and
Hocker text is required). In order to accomplish the appropriate breadth and depth of
analysis, it is recommended that you employ between three and five concepts in your
paper. Your paper will conclude with some recommendations and/or “lessons learned”
that will assist you in handling similar future conflicts. The analysis section of your paper
should be between 1400 and 1800 words. Papers should therefore be between 1800
and 2200 words in total and double spaced.
*Please title your document as follows: “Last Name-Interpersonal”
Identity-based Conflict Analysis Report (55%)
Due: Thursday April 18thby 11:59pm. Submit to Turnitin.
In a report of between 2,000 and 2,500 words (show word count), examine an intergroup conflict in which identity plays an important role. Place yourself in the role of a
trusted advisor to an appropriate official, s/he could be governmental (e.g., mayor,
governor, or president) or non-governmental (e.g., UN general secretary, Director of an
NGO). Organize your report into the following sections: (1) conflict overview, (2)
analytical frameworks, (3) recommended interventions. In the conflict overview (no more
than 400 words), present a brief history of the conflict to your audience. Within the
‘analytical frameworks’ section, identify three or four identity-based conflict concepts
related to the conflict and explain to your audience how each has been demonstrated in
this conflict—to do so you’ll have to introduce each concept tightly, then present
illustrations of the concept in action within this conflict. Close the paper with one or more
recommended interventions that the official might initiate to improve the conflict; here,
too, be sure to explain to the official your rationale for each recommendation. As a
research paper, this report should involve the integration of at least six outside scholarly
sources (academic articles, books, etc.) in addition to the use of relevant assigned
course readings. While news media sources may be cited for background information,
they do not count towards this total. Explicit reference to and proper citation of all
sources is required.
*Please title your document as follows: “Last Name-Intergroup”
Attendance and Participation (10%)
Your full and active participation is required both to make this class successful and to
enable your learning of the course material. Full and active participation means that you
1) arrive on time and attend all classes, 2) complete all readings assignments prior to
class and be able to discuss them in a focused and reflective manner, and 3) participate
actively in all class discussions and exercises. Please note that your grade may be
lowered for unexcused absences, tardiness, disrespect for others or inadequate
participation during in-class exercises and discussion.
Course Schedule:
Friday & Saturday, February 8th & 9th: Interpersonal Conflict
Read:
WH Chs. 1-4
Friday and Saturday, February 22nd-23rd: Interpersonal Conflict
Read:
WH Chs. 5-10
Sunday, March 10th
Due: Self-Reflection Paper
Friday and Saturday, April 5th-6th: Intergroup & Community Conflict
Read: Articles and/or book chapters to be assigned and made available.
Thursday April 18th
Due: Identity-based Conflict Analysis Report
Overall Expectations:
One of the essential skills of the conflict resolution professional is the ability to create a
safe space. This class, and indeed all of the classes in the MSCM curriculum, is
intended to be an opportunity to explore freely and to take risks in a safe environment.
Students are expected to participate in creating a dynamic learning environment for all
members of the class.
What does an A, B, or C “look like?”
Students whose participation, papers, and exam answers exceed adequate levels will
receive an A.
Students whose participation, papers, and exam answers are adequate will receive a B.
Students whose participation, papers, and exam answers are not adequate will receive
a C or lower.
Late Work:
Homework and research papers must be turned in on time. Late work may receive a
reduced grade. If you are not able to turn an assignment in on time, please let us know
in advance.
Written Work:
Written communication, as well as oral communication, is the hallmark of the effective
conflict manager. For this reason, writing is an important component of the MSCM
program. Written work will be evaluated primarily on the basis of content. However,
originality, organization, writing style, and research (if applicable) are important
components of written assignments.
Course Attendance:
Since class meetings are limited, it is imperative that students attend all class meetings.
Individual exceptions to this rule will be limited to cases of emergency or serious
illness. If a student fails to provide acceptable documentation that an absence is due to
emergency or serious illness, the grade for the course in question may be lowered one
letter grade.
Academic Integrity Statement:
Every KSU student is responsible for upholding the provisions of the Student Code of
Conduct, as published in the Undergraduate and Graduate Catalogs. Section II of the
Student Code of Conduct addresses the University's policy on academic honesty,
including provisions regarding plagiarism and cheating, unauthorized access to
University materials, misrepresentation/falsification of University records or academic
work, malicious removal, retention, or destruction of library materials,
malicious/intentional misuse of computer facilities and/or services, and misuse of
student identification cards. Incidents of alleged academic misconduct will be handled
through the established procedures of the University Judiciary Program, which includes
either an "informal" resolution by a faculty member, resulting in a grade adjustment, or a
formal hearing procedure, which may subject a student to the Code of Conduct's
minimum one semester suspension requirement.
Please Note: Turning in the work of others as your own, turning in papers downloaded
from the Internet as your own, using more than three substantive words in order from an
uncited source, and/or using ideas or concepts borrowed from others without adequate
citation will be considered plagiarism. We reserve the right to review any student papers
and assignments through plagiarism-review services or software.
disAbled Student Support Services:
DSSS is a part of the Student Development Center (SDC). Kennesaw State University
does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to, or treatment or
employment in, its programs or activities. KSU promotes equity in academic access
through the implementation of reasonable accommodations (for more information, visit
http://www.kennesaw.edu/stu_dev/dsss/ or Student Center, Suite 267). Students who
require reasonable accommodations because of a physical, mental, or learning
disability should notify the instructor of this course as soon as possible and preferably
before the end of the first two weeks of class to arrange for reasonable
accommodations. Should you require assistance or have further questions about the
ADA, please contact Carol Pope, the ADA Compliance Officer for Students, at 770-4236443.
Student Conduct and Academic Integrity:
Academic integrity is essential to the pursuit of knowledge. Cheating and plagiarism are
not acceptable! Using another person’s ideas, words, research, or sentence patterns —
whether from written or Internet sources — without proper citation or acknowledgement
is plagiarism. Penalties for plagiarism range from an “F” in the course to suspension.
Refer to the KSU Student Code of Conduct at
http://www.kennesaw.edu/scai/code_of_conduct.shtml for further detail.