Chapter 7 – Developer
141
Activity
List here what you think are the fears of the different parties involved in this
conflict.Typically fears include:
- failure and loss of face
- doing the wrong thing
- financial insecurity, being rejected, disliked
- loss of control
- being judged or criticised
- uninteresting work
- being ordered around or
- having to start all over again.
Identifying solutions
By exploring the needs and fears of all the parties in this conflict, some possible
outcomes may emerge which help everyone.
In this case could the student resubmit an assignment or do extra work? Can the
sessional staff be given some coaching to improve his/her teaching style? Can the course
coordinator be supported to re-design the unit and assessment so students are more likely
to attend classes?Using maps effectively
You can map conflicts with others or on your own. If you are not able, or don’t want to
bring all the parties together, using the map will help you to collect and record
information and manage the conflict. Sometimes you may need to guess how it is for the
other parties, but the process broadens your perspective. It will probably highlight some
areas you want to know more about, which will give you some good questions to ask
others about their needs before you head into solutions.
You do not need to have a conflict for mapping – you can also use it to prevent
conflict. You can initiate a mapping session in your work or any other group activities
you are involved in. It is quite simple to say: 'Let's get a clear picture of the situation
before we go further. Let's hear everyone's needs and concerns on this issue.’