Fundamentals of Community Investment and Economic Development

This session introduces learners to an understanding of conflict, including what it is and is not, and the value that conflict can bring in particular situations and settings. It also builds an understanding of when intentional conflict management approaches might be needed and allows for discussion on the cost of conflict to the business and to host communities.

This session refers to the different international guidance and standards available on conflict and provides examples of how companies have embedded conflict sensitivity and best practices within their management systems.

In this session, students are introduced to crucial tools for conflict analysis. They will become acquainted with these key analytical instruments and can apply them to their own conflict case. This hands-on approach equips individuals to effectively address and manage conflicts in their own contexts, whilst also learning from the experience of fellow learners in the room.

This session delves into the critical aspect of comprehending conflict within a traumatized context. Students will be introduced to the concept of applying a trauma lens to enhance their understanding and response to conflict. Through practical exercises, attendees will have the opportunity to apply a trauma lens to their current conflict cases, gaining valuable insights into the dynamics at play. Additionally, the course will explore the intricate link between trauma and vulnerability, shedding light on the profound impact of trauma on conflict and its resolution.

Positions, Interests, and Needs (PINs) is a framework used in conflict resolution and negotiation to understand what it is at stake for the different conflict actors. In this session, students use this framework to analyse their own conflict cases.

This session focuses on understanding what it means to be conflict-sensitive as an organisation, including looking at how trauma plays out at an organisational level.

In this session, students are introduced to the use of a risk-based approach to analysing and responding to conflict. Examples from other companies will be shared to show the value of integrating conflict analysis into an organisation's risk management processes and also to ensure a practical exploration of this topic.

This session introduces a range of conflict management approaches that are available in terms of how one responds to conflict - both as part of an overall long-term conflict strategy and in response to conflict-specific issues. Trauma-sensitive leadership and associated conflict management approaches are also given due attention in this session.

In this session, essential conflict de-escalation techniques are introduced, practised, and applied. Students will have an opportunity to reflect on experiences and insights to deepen their understanding of technique effectiveness and adaptability to different conflicts. Key de-escalation skills that are covered include building rapport, active listening, facilitation, managing feelings, emotional regulation, paraphrasing, constructive talking, and so on.

This session provides an understanding of the theory underpinning effective Conflict Management Plans. Students will gain insights into the principles and strategies that form the foundation of Conflict Management Plan development. This will then be used in a practical exercise. This session also further explores the connections between Conflict Management Plans and the broader Theory of Change framework.

This session focuses on developing a monitoring and evaluation framework of one's Conflict Management Plan, including the development of conflict-appropriate Key Performance Indicators. This learning is done through practical application to the learner's case study.

Throughout the course, students will be encouraged to reflect on their own relationship with conflict, allowing for insights to arise regarding current attitudes and approaches that do or don't serve the conflict situations in which they find themselves. This will be done through evening journalling and morning reflection and sharing.