REQUIREMENTS FOR A BA IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION STUDIES (CRS)
3-Year Major: (90 credit hours)
General Degree Requirement: (21 credit hours)
Humanities: 12 credit hours in Humanities
Science: 6 credit hours in Science
Writing: 3 credit hours in Academic Writing
Maximum Introductory Courses: 42 credit hours at the 1000 level
Distribution: Minimum 3 credit hours from each of 5 subject areas
Single Major: Minimum 36 credit hours / Maximum 54 credit hours in CRS.
Double Major: Minimum 36 credit hours in CRS and a specified number of credit hours in another major subject.
Combined Major: Minimum 48 credit hours in CRS and another major subject with not fewer than 18 credit hours in each major. Note: CRS courses must be selected in consultation with the CRS Program Coordinator or MSC Academic Advisor.
Required CRS Courses (18 credit hours)
CRS-1200/6 Introduction to Conflict Resolution Studies
CRS-2210/3 Conflict Theory and Analysis*
CRS-2211/1.5 Conciliation Skills Workshop*
CRS-2241(3) Conflict and Culture*
CRS-3220/3 Models for Conflict Transformation
CRS-3221/1.5 Mediation Skills Workshop
A further 3 credit hours from each of the CRS concentrations.
An additional 9 credit hours from CRS or CRS Area courses.
Four-year Major (120 credit hours)
General Degree Requirement: (33 credit hours)
Humanities: 12 credit hours in Humanities
Science: 6 credit hours in Science
Social Science: 12 credit hours in Social Science
Writing: 3 credit hours in Academic Writing
Maximum Introductory Courses: 42 credit hours at the 1000 level
Distribution: Minimum 3 credit hours from each of 5 subject areas
Single Major: Minimum 48 credit hours / Maximum 66 credit hours in CRS and minimum of 24 credit hours of Cognate courses. Of the required CRS Core courses, a minimum of 6 credit hours must be at the 4000 level.
Cognate Requirement: Minimum of 6 (maximum 15) credit hours from designated Research Skills courses.
Minimum of 6 (maximum 12) credit hours from designated Language Skills courses.
Additional minimum of 12 credit hours from other CRS Area Courses.
Double Major: Minimum 48 credit hours in CRS and a specified number of credit hours in another major. Of the required CRS Core courses, a minimum of 6 credit hours must be at the 4000 level.
Combined Major: Minimum 60 credit hours in CRS and another major subject with not fewer than 24 credit hours in each major. Note: CRS courses must be selected in consultation with the CRS Program Coordinator or MSC Academic Advisor.
Required CRS Courses (24 credit hours)
CRS-1200/6 Introduction to Conflict Resolution Studies
CRS-2210/3 Conflict Theory and Analysis*
CRS-2211/1.5 Conciliation Skills Workshop*
CRS-2241(3) Conflict and Culture*
CRS-3220/3 Models for Conflict Transformation*
CRS-3221/1.5 Mediation Skills Workshop*
CRS-3299/3 Practicum in Conflict Resolution Studies*
CRS-4200/3 Senior Seminar in Conflict Resolution Studies*
A further 3 credit hours from each of the CRS concentrations.
An additional 12 credit hours in one CRS concentration.
An additional 3 credit hours in CRS or CRS Area Courses.
Prerequisites:
Students are advised that certain courses in the program have prerequisites. Courses with prerequisites are marked with an asterisk.
Practicum Opportunities:
Practicum placements enable students to develop skills and apply classroom theory to real-life situations. They require significant preparatory work and generally last from three to six months in either a local or an international setting. It is preferred that students taking part in an international practicum do so prior to their final semester of courses. Students must explore options with the Practicum Director well in advance of the term in which they propose to engage in these practicum activities.
Required Core Courses for Practicum:
CRS-1200(6) Introduction to Conflict Resolution Studies
CRS-2210(3) Conflict Theory and Analysis*
CRS-2211(1.5) Coaching Skills Workshop*
CRS-3220(3) Models for Conflict Transformation*
CRS-3221(1.5) Mediation Skills Workshop*
COURSE LISTINGS
CRS Core Courses
These courses have been developed by CRS faculty to address core areas of importance to the theoretical and practical exploration of Conflict Resolution Studies. Introduction to Conflict Resolution Studies, Conflict Theory and Analysis, Models for Conflict Transformation, Conflict and Culture, and the Senior Seminar provide students with an overall framework for an understanding of the complexities of conflict in contemporary life, and span all categories. The Coaching Skills Workshop, Mediation Skills Workshop, and Practicum provide grounding in basic skills necessary for effective conflict resolution. The remaining courses are organized in terms of three specific concentrations.
CRS-1200(6) Introduction to Conflict Resolution Studies
CRS-2210(3) Conflict Theory and Analysis*
CRS-2211(1.5) Coaching Skills Workshop*
CRS-2241(3) Conflict and Culture*
CRS-3220(3) Models for Conflict Transformation*
CRS-3221(1.5) Mediation Skills Workshop*
CRS-3298(6) or CRS-3299(3) Practicum in Conflict Resolution Studies*
CRS-4200(3) Senior Seminar in Conflict Resolution Studies*
CRS Course Concentrations
Conflict Resolution and Restorative Justice
CRS-2221(3) Restorative Justice*
CRS-2232(3) Introduction to Conflict Resolution in Educational Settings*
CRS-2242(3) Methods of Conflict Resolution in Educational Settings*
CRS-2251(3) Conflict in the Family I*
CRS-2252(3) Conflict and Communication*
CRS-2261(3) Conflict in the Family II*
CRS-2271(3) Conflict within Groups*
CRS-2421(3) Legal Systems and Alternative Dispute Resolution*
CRS-2431(3) Negotiation Theory and Practice*
CRS-3231(3) or CRS-4231(3) Ethics in Conflict Resolution*
CRS-3240(3) Workplace Conflict Resolution*
CRS-3252(3) or CRS-4252(3) Advanced Study of Conflict Within Groups*
CRS-4224(3) Inner Peace and Conflict Transformation*
CRS-4252(3) Advanced Mediation Practice*
Peace Studies and Nonviolent Social Movements
CRS/HIST/MENN-2131(3) History of Peace and Nonviolence I
CRS/HIST/MENN-2132(3) History of Peace and Nonviolence II
CRS-2231(3) Nonviolent Social Change*
CRS-2262(3) Conflict, Faith and Community*
CRS/WGS-3242(3) Women and Peacemaking*
CRS-3331(3) Genocide, War and Violent Conflict*
CRS-3332(3) Trauma and Violence*
CRS/IDS-3910(3) Peace Theory and Practice*
CRS-3931(3) Human Rights and Conflict Resolution*
CRS/HRGS-4350(3) Truth, Memory and Reconciliation*
CRS/IDS-4910(3) Conflict and the Construction of the Other*
Conflict, Poverty, and Development
IDS/CRS-4922(3) Program Evaluation in Development and Conflict Resolution
CRS/IDS-2443(3) Conflict and Development Issues in Indigenous Communities*
CRS/HRGS-3410(3) Transitional Justice*
CRS/IDS-3901(3) Humanitarian Aid and Conflict*
CRS/IDS-3920(3) Action Research Methods*
CRS/IDS-4920(3) Program Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation*
CRS Area Courses
Area courses are rooted in traditional disciplines as well as other interdisciplinary programs and address issues that are directly relevant to the CRS Program. These courses are organized below into the three general categories emphasized through the CRS course concentration, although any of these courses may relate to more than one of the CRS concentrations. Categories of research and language skills are included to emphasize the specialized cognate courses recommended for the 4-year program.
Note: Most courses from other departments and programs will have their own prerequisites. Courses requiring prerequisites are marked with an asterisk. It is the student’s responsibility to determine what the prerequisites are.
Note: The Area Courses List is meant to be a list of courses complementary to the special interests of CRS students. Because curriculum offerings keep changing, and because students may have some specific interests not included in the Area Courses list, students may make application to the CRS Coordinator to consider some other courses relevant to their major interests for inclusion as Area Courses.
Conflict Resolution and Restorative Justice
BUS-2103(3) Fundamentals of Organizational Behaviour*
BUS-3110(3) Ethics in Management *
CJ-2203(3) Institutional Corrections*
CJ-3125(3) Crime Victims*
CJ-3203(3) Community Corrections*
CJ-3500(3) Interpersonal Violence and Abuse
IDS/ENV-2521(3) Study of Voluntary Simplicity*
PHIL-2202(3) Ethics in Medicine and the Law
PHIL-2207(3) Philosophy of Law*
PHIL-2252(3) Philosophy of the Social Sciences
POL-2315(3) The Legal Process
POL-4315(3) Strategic Planning in Organizations I*
POL-4320(3) Strategic Planning in Organizations II*
PSYC-2410(3) Social Psychology II*
PSYC-2450(3) Organizational Psychology II*
PSYC-3050(3) Culture and Psychology*
PSYC-3450(3) Organizational Leadership and Decision Making*
PSYC-3470(3) Psychology and the Law*
PSYC-3480(3) Interpersonal Communication*
PSYC-3740(3) Introduction to Family Processes
PSYC-4450(3) Advanced Organizational Psychology*
PSYC-4760(3) Introduction to Counselling Theory*
PSYCH-4770(3) Introduction to Interviewing*
REL-2304(3) Crises of Faith in Contemporary Society
REL-2507(3) Sexuality in the Religious Context
REL-2513(3) Health, Healing and Spirituality in Cross-Cultural Perspective
REL-3601(3) Storied Lives: Contemporary Spiritual Biographies and the Construction of Identity
SOC-2103(6) Sociology of the Family*
SOC-2115(6) Sociology of Socialization and Development*
SOC-2118(6) Sex and Gender Relationships*
SOC-2119(6) Sociology of Law*
SOC-2307(3) Sociology of Youth*
SOC-3123(3) Crime, Victimization and Justice in Aboriginal Communities*
SOC-3128(3) Sociology of Sexuality*
SOC-3201(3) Sociology of Youth Justice*
SOC-3203(3) Theories of Penalty*
SOC-3205(3) Policing, Governance and Security*
Peace Studies and Social Movements
CLAS-2020(6) Athenian Law and Society
CLAS-2701(6) Classical Mythology
CLAS-2702(3) Religion in Greece and Rome
ENGL-3151(6) Critical Theory: An Introduction*
ENGL-3180(6) The Making of Peace and War in Literature*
ENGL-3901(6) Twentieth-Century Gay and Lesbian Literature*
ENGL-4110(6) Critical Theory*
GEOG-2408(3) Environmental Perception and Human Behaviour*
HIST-3112(6) Militarism in the Modern World
HIST-3542(6) Gender, Class and Ethnicity in Canadian History
HIST-4530(6) Advanced Studies in Canadian Social History
MENN/HIST-3108(3) Gender and Mennonites
PHIL-2208(3) War and Peace
POL-2400(6) Canadian Politics
POL-2405(6) Women, Gender and Politics
POL-2410(6) Human Rights and Civil Liberties in Canada
POL-2505(3) Issues in City Politics
POL-2510(6) Community Politics
POL-3110(3) International Organization
POL-3115(3) Gender and Global Politics
POL-3120(3) International Law*
POL-3135(6) Human Security Issues
POL-3320(3) Women and the Law
POL-3400(3) Aboriginal Politics in Canada
POL-3405(3) Aboriginal Politics in Manitoba
POL-3411(3) Aboriginal People and the Law I
POL-3415(3) Aboriginal People and the Law II
POL-3510(3) Interest Groups and New Social Movements
POL-4510(3) Law and the Politics of Social Change*
REL-2402(3) Fundamentalisms in Global Perspective
REL-2404(3) Religion and Culture: Religions in Encounter and Change
REL-2405(3) Religion and Culture: The Multifaith Society
REL-2711(3) Contemporary Islam
REL-2801(3) Introduction to Aboriginal Spirituality
REL-2802(3) Aboriginal and Christian Encounter
RHET-3138(3) Modern Rhetorical Theory*
SOC-2110(6) Social Change*
SOC-3209(6) Mass Communication and Popular Culture*
WGS-4004(3) Feminist Cultural Studies*
WGS-4232(3) Senior Seminar in Women’s and Gender Studies*
Conflict, Poverty and Development
ANTH/IDS-2160(3) Indigenous People and the Industrial State*
ANTH/IDS-3160(3) Cultural Perspectives on Global Processes*
ECON-2303(3) Labour Economics*
ECON-2317(3) Environmental Economics*
HIST-2509(6) History of the Aboriginal Peoples of Canada
HIST-4570(6) Aboriginals and Newcomers in Encounter: Selected Topics
IDS-2110(3) Participatory Local Development
IDS-2131(3) Rural Development*
IDS/MENN-3150(3) Mennonite Community and Development*
MENN/HIST-3116(3) Mennonites and World Issues
PHIL-2233(3) Environmental Ethics
POL-3500(6) Globalization and City Politics
POL-4301(6) Administrative Theory*
SOC-2105(6) Race, Ethnic and Aboriginal Relations*
SOC-3101(3) Globalization and Social Justice: A Sociological Perspective*
SOC-3104(6) Globalization and Societies in the World System*
SOC-4413(6) Seminar in Race and Ethnic Relations*
Research Skills Courses
ANTH-3125/4125(3) Ethnographic Research Methods*
CJ-2101(3) Criminal Justice Research Methods*
POL-3224(3) Research Project Design
PSYC-2101(3) Introduction to Data Analysis*
PSYC-2102(3) Introduction to Research Methods*
PSYC-4410(3) Research Seminar in Social Psychology*
REL-3804/4804(3) Aboriginal Spirituality: Research Methods*
RHET-2135(3) Rhetorical Criticism*
SOC-2125(3) Introduction to Quantitative Research Methods*
SOC-2126(3) Introduction to Research Design and Qualitative Research*
WGS-3200(6) Feminist Research Methods*
Language Skills Courses
ABOR-1101(6) Introductory Cree
ABOR-1201(6) Introductory Ojibwe
FREN-1111(6) Practical Language Skills*
GERM-2201(6) Intermediate German*
GERM-3301(6) Deutsche Sprachpraxis I*
REL-2010(6) Introduction to Modern Standard Arabic*
REL-2020(6) Introduction to Japanese Language*
REL-2030(6) Introduction to Chinese Language
SPAN-2001(6) Intermediate Spanish*
*Requires prerequisite.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
CRS-1200(6) INTRODUCTION TO CONFLICT RESOLUTION STUDIES (Le3) This course is designed to develop an understanding of the roots and the nature of human conflict, of responses to conflict, and of models for constructive ways to deal with human conflict between individuals, groups, and nations. The themes of anger, violence, creative dimensions of conflict, mediation, and resolution will be examined from an interdisciplinary perspective.
Restrictions: Students may not hold credit in both this course and the former MSC-2100(6).
CRS-2131(3) HISTORY OF PEACE AND NONVIOLENCE I (Le3) This course examines the history of pacifism, peace movements, and nonviolence from ancient times to the 1700s. It focuses in particular on Europe, with special emphasis on the period from ancient Greece and Rome, to Early Modern times in Western Europe. The course also addresses history of peace in other parts of the world. Thus, it contrasts Christian traditions of nonviolence with those of Hindu, Buddhist and other eastern traditions. For case studies, the course examines Mennonite communities in 16th and 17th century Switzerland and the Netherlands.
Cross-listed: History HIST-2131(3) and Mennonite Studies MENN-2131(3).
CRS-2131(3) HISTORY OF PEACE AND NONVIOLENCE II (Le3) This course examines the history of pacifism, peace movements, and nonviolence from the 1700s till the present. It focuses in particular on North America, but will also cover selected events in other parts of the world. The course, thus, contrasts Christian traditions of nonviolence with those of aboriginal, secular and eastern cultures. For case studies, the course examines Mennonite communities in 19th and 20th century Canada and the United States where Mennonites have embraced pacifism as a fundamental principle of social organization.
Cross-listed: History and Mennonite Studies HIST/MENN-2132(3).
CRS-2210(3) CONFLICT THEORY AND ANALYSIS (Le3) This course explores conceptual frameworks for analyzing and resolving social and interpersonal conflict. Course material includes selected personality theorists as well as significant theories of social conflict and change. Students critique various theoretical perspectives, evaluate the usefulness of these theories by applying them to different conflict situations, and develop their abilities to identify conflict resolution strategies appropriate to the conflict analysis.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or permission of instructor.
Co-requisite: CRS-2211(1.5)
Restrictions: Students may not hold credit in both this course and the former MSC-2102(3).
CRS-2211(1.5) COACHING SKILLS WORKSHOP (AV1.5) This workshop offers students the opportunity to learn and practice informal models of third party participation in conflict resolution. Areas to be covered include how to coach and to prepare disputants effectively, and how to facilitate informal mediation. This practicum will be closely integrated and must be taken concurrently with Conflict Theory and Analysis (CRS-2210(3)).
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or permission of instructor.
Co-requisite: CRS-2210(3).
CRS-2221(3) RESTORATIVE JUSTICE (Le3) This course will identify the principles of restorative justice and explore the application of these principles in various contexts. This will include a critical assessment of various forms of victim offender mediation, as well as the application of restorative principles at various levels within the criminal justice system, as they affect victims, offenders, and the community. Alternative models of justice as a whole will also be considered.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or permission of instructor.
CRS-2231(3) NONVIOLENT SOCIAL CHANGE (Le3) This course explores the imperative of social change from a social justice perspective. After studying the meanings of power and its exercise as well as theories of non-violence, students are taken through the modalities of non-violent social action. The practicalities of planning, strategizing, and implementing non-violent struggle are covered through case study methodology. Students cover such topics as the formation of coalitions, getting media attention, framing messages, and mobilizing constituents. The course is designed to help students understand and participate more effectively in initiatives for non-violent social action.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or permission of instructor.
Restrictions: Students may not hold credit in both this course and the former CRS-2231 Violence and Nonviolence.
CRS-2232(3) INTRODUCTION TO CONFLICT RESOLUTION IN EDUCATIONAL SETTINGS (Le3) This course will present an introduction to the theory and methods of conflict resolution, with special emphasis on conflict in educational settings. The course will help students to understand the nature of human conflict, responses to conflict, and models for constructive ways to deal with conflict between and among individuals and groups. Topics will include anger, power, creative dimensions of conflict, and mediation. These will be examined from an interdisciplinary perspective.
Prerequisites: EDUC-1001(3) or EDUC-1801(3).
Restrictions: Students may not hold credit in both this course and CRS-1200(6) or the former MSC-2100(6).
Cross-listed: Education EDUC-2232(3).
CRS-2241(3) CONFLICT AND CULTURE (Le3) The course will explore the relationship between culture and conflict, from an interdisciplinary perspective. This will include an examination of cultural differences in response to conflict, as well as the nature and origins of conflict between and among cultures, with special reference to the relationships between culture and alternatives in conflict resolution. Special attention will be given to inter-ethnic conflict in the modern world.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or permission of instructor.
CRS-2242(3) METHODS OF CONFLICT RESOLUTION IN EDUCATIONAL SETTINGS (Le3) This course will provide practical applications of conflict resolution skills, for teaching conflict resolution and for the implementation of conflict management programs from elementary to secondary levels. Practical skills for conflict resolution in the classroom, in the home, in the peer group, and in staff relations will be developed. Areas of skill learning will include conflict mediation, listening skills, responding to anger and violence, and classroom management. A practicum component will be included to provide the opportunity to link theory to practice.
Prerequisites: CRS-2232(3) or EDUC-1001(3) or EDUC-1801(3) AND CRS-1200(6).
Cross-listed: Education EDUC-2242(3).
CRS-2251(3) CONFLICT IN THE FAMILY I (Le3) This course is designed to help students understand how conflict develops and manifests itself within familial relationships. Students will study the nature of the family through the lens of a systemic perspective by examining family structure, communication patterns, and gender issues in relation to the family life cycle. Students will learn to differentiate between destructive and constructive conflict processes in the family. They will then progress to an understanding of how to transform antagonistic conflict into problem solving.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or permission of instructor.
Restrictions: Students may not hold credit in both this course and the former MSC-2281(3) Selected Topics in CRS: Marriage, the Family and Conflict I.
CRS-2252(3) CONFLICT AND COMMUNICATION (Le3) This course will provide some theoretical underpinnings of the dynamics of communication in interpersonal and small group conflict. Issues surrounding diversity will be examined in depth, specifically with respect to individual and cultural differences. Direct instruction will be provided in the analysis, development, and implementation of self-management and interpersonal communication skills to enhance healthy relationships and prevent dysfunctional conflict in daily life.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or permission of instructor.
Restrictions: Students may not hold credit in both this course and the former MSC-2281(3) Selected Topics in CRS: Conflict and Communication.
CRS-2261(3) CONFLICT IN THE FAMILY II (Le3) Building upon the systemic family theory and the life cycle processes studied in Marriage, The Family and Conflict I, this course will closely examine specific family conflicts in marital relations, parents with younger children, parents with adolescents, single parents, step and blended families, and same-sex couples. Drawing from class discussion, the academic literature, and personal anecdotes, family relational conflict will be explored for both its deepening potential and its inhibiting power.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or permission of instructor.
Restrictions: Students may not hold credit in both this course and the former MSC-2281(3). Selected Topics in CRS: Marriage, the Family and Conflict II.
CRS-2262(3) CONFLICT, FAITH AND COMMUNITY (Le3) This course explores how conflict and conflict resolution are linked to personal faith and life in community. Students will first have the opportunity to investigate what is meant by “faith” and “community.” Students will then explore how faith and community can shape their understanding of conflict and the practice of conflict resolution. Diverse views of conflict and faith developed by secular as well as various religious communities will be examined.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or permission of instructor.
CRS-2271(3) CONFLICT WITHIN GROUPS (Le3) This course is designed to explore dyadic and group procedures to maintain harmony in relationships in various settings. It will use and build upon the same understanding of interpersonal conflict theories and practice as in the parallel course: Conflict and Communication. A personal style inventory tool which identifies individual and cultural differences will be interpreted and utilized. Teaching/learning formats will include mini-lectures, small and large group work, written and behavioural rehearsal skill development exercises, practice at facilitating use of videotaping, and transcript analysis. Each student will have the opportunity to custom design some learning projects for him/herself.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or permission of instructor.
Restrictions: Students may not hold credit in both this course and the former MSC-2281(3) Selected Topics in CRS: Conflict Within Groups.
CRS-2281(3) SELECTED TOPICS IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION STUDIES (Le3) The course is designed to introduce students to the reality and complexity of conflict situations within a number of settings, for example, small and large communities, organizations, and families. The course has a strong applied component, presenting specific mediation problems through a case study approach.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or permission of instructor.
CRS-2421(3) LEGAL SYSTEMS AND ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION (ADR)(Le3) This course compares and contrasts legal and alternative dispute resolution processes, with special reference to the relative benefits and detriments of each. It will also consider the possibilities for change in each process.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or permission of instructor.
Restrictions: Students may not hold credit in both this course and the former MSC-2281(3) Selected Topics in
CRS: Legal Systems and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).
CRS-2431(3) NEGOTIATION THEORY AND PRACTICE (Le3) This course will examine the theory and practice of negotiation, including topics such as negotiating skills, contextual factors, agreement implementation and follow-up, multilateral negotiation, and third party intervention.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or permission of instructor.
Restrictions: Students may not hold credit in both this course and the former MSC-2281(3) Selected Topics in CRS: Negotiation and Practice.
CRS-2443(3) CONFLICT AND DEVELOPMENT ISSUES IN INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES (Le3) Within the broad frameworks of international development and conflict resolution studies, this course explores the dynamics of indigenous people globally, with special reference to the Canadian context. The course describes key elements of indigenous cultures and world views. It will examine inter- and intra-group conflict and conflict resolution processes involving indigenous communities. Processes of marginalization and underdevelopment will be presented in order to understand the indigenous communities' social, economic, and political situations. Strategies for community development and conflict resolution will be highlighted as means to achieve transformation.
Prerequisites: IDS-1100(6) or CRS-1200(6), or permission of instructor.
Cross-listed: International Development Studies IDS-2443(3).
CRS-3220(3) MODELS FOR CONFLICT TRANSFORMATION (Le3) This course examines historical and contemporary models for nonviolent conflict transformation. Examples of conflicts will be analysed using models such as Adam Curle’s “progression of conflict” model and John Burton’s human needs theory.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or permission of instructor.
Co-requisite: CRS-3221(1.5)
Restrictions: Students may not hold credit in both this course and the former MSC-2103(3) or the former CRS-2220(3).
CRS-3221(1.5) MEDIATION SKILLS WORKSHOP (AV1.5) This workshop focuses on the process and skills of interpersonal mediation. This is accomplished through small group interaction and participation in mediation simulations. Each mediation simulation group is coached by an experienced mediator. Students are exposed to a wide range of interpersonal conflict scenarios. This workshop is closely integrated with, and must be taken concurrently with, Models for Conflict Transformation (CRS-3220(3)).
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or permission of instructor.
Co-requisite: CRS-3220(3).
CRS-3231(3) ETHICS IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION (Le3) This course will examine the ethical dimensions of conflict resolution. The first part of the course will focus on four ethical theories: Kantian, Consequentialism, Virtue and Principlism. The second part of the course will draw on specific issues in conflict resolution, especially with reference to the mediation process, such as neutrality, justice and confidentiality. This part of the course will include the analysis of case studies and codes of professional conduct.
Prerequisite: CRS-1200(6).
CRS-3240(3) WORKPLACE CONFLICT RESOLUTION (Le3) This course will examine contemporary workplace issues, causes of workplace conflict and a variety of dispute and conflict resolution responses such as negotiation, conciliation, mediation, grievance procedures, and arbitration as well as tribunals such as labor relations boards and human rights commissions. Examination of approaches to conflict resolution in the workplace will include reference to such issues as violence, bullying, harassment, organizational culture, “constructive dismissal," and other workplace concerns.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or permission of instructor.
CRS-3242(3) WOMEN AND PEACEMAKING (Le3) This course addresses, from an interdisciplinary perspective, both theoretical and practical contributions that women have made to peacemaking in the modern world. It includes analysis of women’s involvement in peace action, research, and education. Attention is given to the challenges that activists face in organizing around their identity as women, such as the challenge of building common ground among women with varied experiences and concerns.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or WGS-1232(6) or permission of instructor.
Cross-listed: Women’s and Gender Studies WGS-3242(3).
CRS-3252(3) ADVANCED STUDY OF CONFLICT WITHIN GROUPS (Le3) This course will explore complex group conflict and appropriate models and strategies of intervention, via analyses of case studies. Students will have the opportunity to examine and develop specific procedures, techniques, and skills at an advanced level to facilitate proactive healthy group processes, and will work through dysfunctional group conflict. Intensive work in small groups and transcript analysis will be utilized.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6), CRS-2252(3) and CRS-2271(3) or permission of instructor.
CRS-3262(3) CRITICAL ISSUES IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION (Le3) Using the perspectives of conflict resolution studies, this course examines issues of current social controversy as instances of social conflict, including the analysis of characteristics of conflict and directions for the field of conflict resolution. Specific issues examined will vary from year to year, but may include such topics as native/aboriginal issues, alternative healing models, and issues of conflict and spirituality.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or permission of instructor.
CRS-3292(6) DIRECTED READINGS IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION STUDIES (D) In this course, readings and assignments in the area of Conflict Resolution Studies will be arranged between an individual student and the instructor.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6), CRS-2210(3), CRS-3220(3) and a minimum of ONE course from the Core Courses section and permission of instructor.
Restrictions: Students may not hold credit in both this course and the former CRS-3101(6). This course is only available to students in their final year of classes and with a declared major in CRS.
CRS-3293(3) DIRECTED READINGS IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION STUDIES (D) This course is designed for senior students with exceptional potential in the field of Conflict Resolution. All reading requirements in the course will be selected and directed by a specialist in this field.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6), CRS-2210(3), CRS-3220(3) and a minimum of ONE course from the Core Courses section and permission of instructor.
Restrictions: Students may not hold credit in both this course and CRS-3292(6).
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6), CRS-2210(3), and CRS-3220(3), permission of Menno Simons College Practicum Director, AND a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75.
Restrictions: Students may not hold credit in both this course and CRS-3299(3). This is a limited enrollment course.
CRS-3294(3) PRACTICUM IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION STUDIES (AV) This program is designed for students to integrate their academic learning in settings of supervised ‘field’ experiences. The practicum involves voluntary work with a relevant agency, exposing students to actual work settings where they can apply their insights about conflict and its resolution. Students integrate theory with practice through seminar participation, and academic assignments.
Note: Students must complete both this course and CRS-3295(3) to fulfill their 6 credit hour Practicum requirement.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6), CRS-2210(3), and CRS-3220(3), permission of Menno Simons College Practicum Director, AND a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75.
Restrictions: Students may not hold credit in both this course and CRS-3298(6). This is a limited enrollment course and is generally only available to students in overseas placements, or in designated local practicum placements.
CRS-3295(3) PRACTICUM IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION STUDIES (AV) This program is designed for students to integrate their academic learning in settings of supervised ‘field’ experiences. The practicum involves voluntary work with a relevant agency, exposing students to actual work settings where they can apply their insights about conflict and its resolution. Students integrate theory with practice through seminar participation, and academic assignments.
Note: Students must complete both this course and CRS-3294(3) to fulfill their 6 credit hour Practicum requirement.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6), CRS-2210(3), and CRS-3220(3), permission of Menno Simons College Practicum Director, AND a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75.
Restrictions: Students may not hold credit in both this course and CRS-3298(6). This is a limited enrollment course and is generally only available to students in overseas placements, or designated local practicum placements.
CRS-3296(1.5) PRACTICUM IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION STUDIES (AV) This program is designed for students to integrate their academic learning in settings of supervised ‘field’ experiences. The practicum involves voluntary work with a relevant agency, exposing students to actual work settings where they can apply their insights about conflict and its resolution. Students integrate theory with practice through seminar participation, and academic assignments.
Note: Students must complete both this course and CRS-3297(1.5) to fulfill their 3 credit hour Practicum requirement.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6), CRS-2210(3), and CRS-3220(3), permission of Menno Simons College Practicum Director, AND a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75.
Restrictions: Students may not hold credit in both this course and CRS-3299(3). This is a limited enrollment course.
CRS-3297(1.5) PRACTICUM IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION STUDIES (AV) This program is designed for students to integrate their academic learning in settings of supervised ‘field’ experiences. The practicum involves voluntary work with a relevant agency, exposing students to actual work settings where they can apply their insights about conflict and its resolution. Students integrate theory with practice through seminar participation, and academic assignments.
Note: Students must complete both this course and CRS-3296(1.5) to fulfill their 3 credit hour Practicum requirement.
CRS-3298(6) PRACTICUM IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION STUDIES (AV) This program is designed for students to integrate their academic learning in settings of supervised ‘field’ experiences. The practicum involves voluntary work with a relevant agency, exposing students to actual work settings where they can apply their insights about conflict and its resolution. Students integrate theory with practice through seminar participation, and academic assignments.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6), CRS-2210(3), and CRS-3220(3), permission of Menno Simons College Practicum Director, AND a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75.
Restrictions: This is a limited enrollment course and is generally only available to students in overseas placements, or in designated local practicum placements.
CRS-3299(3) PRACTICUM IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION STUDIES (AV) This program is designed for students to integrate their academic learning in settings of supervised ‘field’ experiences. The practicum involves voluntary work with a relevant agency, exposing students to actual work settings where they can apply their insights about conflict and its resolution. Students integrate theory with practice through seminar participation, and academic assignments.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6), CRS-2210(3), and CRS-3220(3), permission of Menno Simons College Practicum Director, AND a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75.
Restrictions: This is a limited enrolment course.
CRS-3331(3) GENOCIDE, WAR AND CONFLICT (Le3) Genocide, war, and violent conflict are among the most pressing problems investigated by conflict analysts. This course helps students interpret and understand unfolding situations of large-scale violence in the world. To aid that process we examine a variety of theoretical approaches, case studies, and core debates in the area from an interdisciplinary perspective. Contemporary efforts to ameliorate selected cases of violent conflict, war, and genocide are also examined.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6), or permission of instructor.
CRS-3332(3) TRAUMA AND VIOLENCE (Le3) This course explores serious, violent conflict, with attention to the multifaceted causes, dynamics, and traumatic consequences of violence. It considers these issues at all relevant levels, including intrapersonal, interpersonal, familial, community, and national. Students are exposed to the existing knowledge base in research and crisis theory, and also observe and study practical skills for crisis first aid and community longer-term intervention.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6), or permission of instructor.
CRS-3410(3) TRANSITIONAL JUSTICE (Le3) This course examines transitional justice, the processes by which societies deal with the legacy of widespread human rights abuses after a period of oppression or violent conflict in order to achieve the transition to a just and stable society. The course investigates a variety of transitional justice mechanisms, such as reparations, truth commissions, reconciliation activities, and criminal tribunals.
Prerequisites: POL-2101(6), or permission of instructor.
Cross-listed: Human Rights and Global Studies HRGS-3410(3).
CRS-3901(3) HUMANITARIAN AID AND CONFLICT: DO NO HARM (Le, S3) The problems of providing humanitarian aid in complex emergencies, that is, where need is created in part by armed conflict, are the focus of this course. In such settings, both material aid and intervention have multiple impacts. This course addresses the nature of contemporary armed conflicts and the role they play in generating complex emergencies, the forms of humanitarian aid provided in complex emergencies, and debates about the effectiveness and appropriateness of different kinds of aid. Through analysis of aid’s impact on the conflict and its effectiveness at meeting human needs, we explore models of humanitarian aid provision that minimize negative impacts.
Prerequisites: CRS-3220(3) or IDS-2171(3) or permission of instructor.
Cross-listed: International Development Studies IDS-3901(3).
CRS-3910(3) PEACE THEORY AND PRACTICE (Le, S3) This course investigates theories of peace. Theories of war and the practice of warfare have been studied a great deal; theories of peace and the practice of peace have been studied less. The course begins with attempts to define peace–a task as difficult as that of defining war and conflict–by drawing on key studies by peace research scholars like Galtung, Reardon, and Elshtain. The course is conducted in a modified seminar format (half the course in large group format, the remainder utilizing small group problem-based learning).
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6), IDS-1100(6) or permission of instructor.
Cross-listed: International Development Studies IDS-3901(3).
CRS-3920(3) ACTION RESEARCH METHODS (Le1, S2) This course investigates the contemporary research and field work methods commonly used by researchers and practitioners in the field of international development studies. The course will emphasize activities that are necessary to prepare the student to conduct research in the field. Issues in data collection and in the context of filed work will be discussed. The following are some of the topics and techniques that will be dealt within the course: planning for research, random sampling and surveys, participatory rural appraisal, interviewing techniques, life history analysis, conducting focus groups, integrating qualitative and quantitative method, and post-field work activities.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6), IDS-1100(6) or permission of instructor.
Cross-listed: International Development Studies IDS-3920(3).
CRS-4200(3) SENIOR SEMINAR IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION STUDIES (S3) This course is intended to provide a broad overview of the field of Conflict Resolution Studies, emphasizing major theoretical themes (interests, debates, contentions, etc.), in the context of a collaborative seminar format. The course will attempt to demonstrate the unity in the field at all social levels, and the importance of general theories and practical approaches for addressing different types of social conflicts. Students will examine the construction and application of conflict resolution theory at interpersonal/organizational and community/global levels of analysis. They will investigate theoretical linkages between these levels of analysis and explore their implications for practical application contexts.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6), CRS-2210(3), and CRS-3220(3) or permission of instructor.
CRS-4224(3) INNER PEACE AND CONFLICT TRANSFORMATION (Le3) The course explores the nature of inner conflict, based on knowledge and skills developed through the study of interpersonal, inter-group, and other levels of conflict. Inner conflict is viewed not as a problem or failure but as a normal and natural aspect of human experience. Inner peace is defined as a state of balance or equilibrium between the present and the emergent self. Inner conflict transformation is seen to be an ongoing process of growth and change.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6) or permission of instructor.
CRS-4252(3) ADVANCED STUDIES IN MEDIATION PRACTICE (Le3) The course provides an in-depth examination of contemporary developments and issues in the theory and practice of mediation as a method for conflict resolution. These will be examined in several different contexts where mediation is practiced, including such areas as victim-offender conflict, family and divorce, labour-management relations, environmental issues, conflict in schools, and international relations. In each case the examination will emphasize the social-structural circumstances that influence the nature of mediation practice. The course will draw extensively on research findings and case-study materials relating to the contemporary practice of mediation.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6), CRS-2210(3), and CRS-3220(3) or and permission of instructor.
Restrictions: Students may not hold credit in both this course and the former MSC-2281(3) Selected Topics in CRS: Case Studies in Mediation or the former CRS-3241(3).
CRS-4350 (3) TRUTH, MEMORY AND RECONCILIATION (Le3) The suffering from atrocities during war-time is often seen as producing lingering individual and collective trauma, contributing to either personal dysfunction or successive cycles of violence where oppressed groups become the perpetrators in future regimes or conflicts. This course probes the roles of memory in transitional societies, with particular emphasis on using memory to strengthen mechanisms for justice and human rights. Reconciliation projects, ranging from community-based initiatives to formal legislated undertakings such as truth and reconciliation commissions are examined in depth. Prerequisite: HRGS-3410 or permission of the instructor.
CRS-4910(3) CONFLICT AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE OTHER (S3) This seminar addresses a central question raised in post-colonial theory about the way humans construct and maintain an understanding of the Other. We ask the question, “Have scholars found the idea of the Other useful as a synthesizing concept?” This problem-based, interdisciplinary seminar considers particular sites of struggle in cultural, social, and individual contexts. Finally, we ask about the implications of this inquiry for our cultural, social, and individual circumstances.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6), CRS-2210(3), CRS-3220(3) or IDS-1100(6), IDS-2110(3) (or the former IDS-3110(3)), IDS-3111(3) or permission of instructor.
Cross-listed: International Development Studies IDS-4910(3).
CRS-4920(3) PROGRAM PLANNING, MONITORING, AND EVALUATION (Le2, S1) Planning, monitoring, and evaluation are essential phases in the process of intervention in both International Development and Conflict Resolution Studies. This fourth-year course introduces students to the theory and applications of fundamentals of program design and implementation. Participants will examine elements of the project cycle including planning approaches, indicators analysis, performance reporting and review, and impact assessment. The possible roles of mediators, donors, clients, and field workers will be considered. The course will explore the formal mechanisms of development agencies and the way in which they can change the shape of the program. The course will provide the skills necessary for conceptualizing and implementing international or domestic projects. It will also provide an opportunity for the comparison of initiatives in International Development or Conflict Resolution.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6), IDS-1100(6) or permission of instructor.
Cross-listed: International Development Studies IDS 4920(3).
CRS-3931(3) CONFLICT RESOLUTION AND HUMAN RIGHTS (Le3) Human rights advocates and conflict resolution practitioners both aim to build peaceable societies based on just peace. They work on the same issues but despite considerable overlap in their work they often talk past each other. In the academy, they often do not talk at all. Rights advocates typically push the justice agenda while conflict resolution practitioners strive for transformation. This course systematically evaluates the tensions and parallels between the two fields and looks at the ways in which human rights and conflict resolution scholars and practitioners can interact in their approaches to the enhancement of human well being.
Prerequisites: CRS-1200(6), or permission of instructor.
IDS/CRS-4922(3) Program Evaluation in Development and Conflict Resolution
In this course, students study systematic assessment of interventions designed to promote development and conflict resolution. The course covers formative evaluations required for program decision-making and summation evaluations applicable for analyzing outcomes and impacts to determine relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability and potential for replication of programs normally implemented by non-governmental organizations. Current debates in approaches to evaluation are also reviewed. Students acquire skills in selecting relevant quantitative and qualitative indicators, various approaches to obtain measures for the indicators selected, approaches to analyzing collected data, and effective presentation of evaluation conclusions and recommendations. Cost-benefit analysis is covered in ECON-3316.
Prerequisite: IDS-1100(6) or CRS-1200(6) or permission of Instructor.
