Overview
An advanced introduction to the study of some of the main theoretical frameworks, concepts and lines of debate employed in peace studies for the analysis of violent conflict at the interpersonal, group, national and international levels.
In the first part of the paper we will explore key concepts to understand the causes of conflict and will be asking questions such as: How do social identities or religion foment conflict?
The second part of the paper will focus on conflict resolution and how the understanding of these concepts can inform reconciliation and peace building activities.
Students will develop knowledge and skills on:
(1) The main theories, research and approaches for peace and conflict studies
(2) Indigenous approaches to reconciliation and the implications of colonisation for conflict analysis and transformation
(3) Gaining an understanding for the broad application of Conflict Resolution principles in our daily lives, personal and professional
(4) Key elements of research methods
The paper will describe a full cycle: beginning with the outbreaks of conflicts and finishing with their resolution and peace-building through reconciliation processes. It will involve reading materials, discussions, documentaries, simulations and case studies drawing heavily on the colonial history of Aotearoa/NZ.
About this paper
| Paper title | Conflict Analysis and Conflict Resolution Theory |
|---|---|
| Subject | Peace and Conflict Studies |
| EFTS | 0.25 |
| Points | 30 points |
| Teaching period | Not offered in 2024 (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) | $2,223.25 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Restriction
- PEAC 402
- Limited to
- MPCS
- Eligibility
Suitable for graduates of all disciplines interested in issues of war, violence and the peaceful resolution of conflict, as well as professionals and interested members of the public.
- Contact
- peaceandconflict@otago.ac.nz
- More information link
- View more information on the National Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies' website
- Teaching staff
- Dr Mariska Kappmeier
- Paper Structure
Students will develop knowledge and skills regarding the main theories, research and approaches for peace and conflict studies.
Laying the foundation
- Introduction to Conflict Analysis & Resolution
- Social Identity
Conflict Analysis
- Ideology & Social Dominance Theory
- Ethos of Conflict
- Theory of Change and Peace Building Evaluation
Conflict Resolution - Why and How
- Conflict Reconciliation from Te Ao Māori
- Conflict Reconciliation
- Ka mua, ka muri - Representation and Remembering
- Decolonising local history: Hikoi – Otepoti
- Hikoi Debriefing
- Gender and Gendered Peace Process
- Dialogue
- Taking Stock and Wrapping Up
- Teaching Arrangements
- Weekly 3-hour seminars combining seminar-style discussions, exercises, interactive activities and problem-based learning.
- Textbooks
The paper makes extensive use of the following texts:
Ramsbotham, O., Woodhourse, T., and Miall, H., 2011. Contemporary Conflict Resolution, Cambridge: Polity Press.
Cresswell, J, 2014. Research Design, Thousand Oaks: Sage.
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Global perspective, Interdisciplinary perspective, Lifelong learning, Communication, Critical thinking, Cultural understanding, Ethics, Information literacy, Research, Self-motivation.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
Students who successfully complete the paper will have advanced and integrated understanding of a complex body of knowledge in one or more disciplines or areas of practice:
- The ability to apply knowledge and skills to demonstrate autonomy, expert judgment adaptability and responsibility
- Critical reflection on colonial bias in practice and experience of decolonising approaches
- The ability to integrate knowledge and handle complexity, formulate judgments with incomplete or limited information, but that reflect includes reflection on social and ethical responsibilities linked to the application for their knowledge and judgement
- Advanced theoretical and technical knowledge in one or more disciplines and areas of practice
- The ability to analyse critically, reflect on and synthesize complex information, problems, concepts and theories
- The ability to apply knowledge, skills and understanding in planning and executing a significant project of research