Course Title: Deal with conflict

Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term1 2018

Course Code: GEDU6114C

Course Title: Deal with conflict

School: 650T Vocational Business Education

Campus: City Campus

Program: C4386 - Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation

Course Contact: Ms Vicki Mesiti

Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 5425

Course Contact Email: vicki.mesiti@rmit.edu.au


Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff

Ms Vicki Mesiti

+613 9925 5425

vicki.mesiti@rmit.edu.au

Please email to book an appointment.

Nominal Hours: 30

Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.

Pre-requisites and Co-requisites

None

Course Description

This unit describes the skills required to handle difficult interpersonal situations and address the conflicts that may arise in day to day work activities. It includes identifying the cause of conflict, establishing and implementing strategies for dealing with conflict and evaluating the response and outcomes.    This unit applies to those working in generalist and specialist roles within the public sector.   The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to.   Those undertaking this unit would work independently, performing complex tasks in a range of familiar and unfamiliar contexts.   No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.


National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria

National Element Code & Title:

PSPGEN032 Deal with conflict

Element:

1. Identify the cause of conflict

Performance Criteria:

1.1 Analyse the conflict situation, including the cause, and establish the position of each party.   1.2 Take steps to prevent escalation of the conflict.   1.3 Accept and treat all points of view with respect.   1.4 Identify, clarify and confirm factors and issues relevant to the situation.   1.5 Initiate proceedings to settle the conflict with minimal delay.

Element:

2. Establish and implement strategies for dealing with conflict

Performance Criteria:

2.1 Encourage all parties involved in the conflict to take shared responsibility for finding a solution to the situation.   2.2 Select a strategy for resolution, taking into account social and cultural differences and consistency with organisational policies and procedures.   2.3 Provide assertive feedback to the parties and accept constructive feedback from the parties non-defensively.   2.4 Agree on outcomes that meet individual requirements.   2.5 Seek assistance where necessary.

Element:

3. Evaluate response and outcome

Performance Criteria:

3.1 Maintain records and reports.   3.2 Provide accurate and constructive observations of incidents in reviewing and debriefing the situation.   3.3 Evaluate and review effectiveness of response.


Learning Outcomes


  At successful completion of this course you should be able to:   •        Apply a range of communication techniques, both generic and written, relevant to resolving conflict for a range of organisations while managing their legal and compliance requirements. •        Evaluate the effect of a range of legal problems and determine appropriate responses for organisations through relevant conflict management strategies. •        Develop reasoned viewpoints, draw conclusions, and make recommendations after interpreting, analysing, and evaluating legal issues to resolve conflict.


Details of Learning Activities

A range of learning activities are planned for this course including self-paced and collaborative classroom based activities.   The self-paced activities will be delivered thought various technology platforms and include your contribution to wikis and discussion threads, reflective journals, quizzes and interactive sessions.   The collaborative classroom based activities will include group discussion, group problem solving activities and opportunities to practice your skills in a simulated/real workplace environment.   We expect you to participate and contribute in all scheduled learning activities.


Teaching Schedule

This course is clustered (co-delivered and co-assessed) with the following courses;

  • LAW5747C Research Legal Information Using Primary Sources
  • LAW5745C Identify and apply the legal framework
Prior to training commencement a program level induction session will be conducted that comprises the following:  
  • Program overview and requirements
  • MyRMIT/Canvas
  • Overview of assessment requirements
  • Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfers (Assessment of current skills and knowledge)
  • Competency/Grading Criteria
  • Plagiarism 
  • Appeals 
  • Extensions 
  • Feedback 
  • Privacy 
  • Submission requirements 
  • Resubmission policy 
  • Where to get support 
  • Student responsibilities

Course Schedule

Course Schedule: Introduction to the Legal Process 

Semester 1: 2018

Week

Topic

Readings and Activities

Assessment

Week 1

5th Feb

Introduction to course-

Rules and Laws 

Understanding the Nature of Conflict

Reading: Introduction to the Australian Legal System Manual 1 p4 -Canvas Course Resources

Activity: Consolidation- Exploring the legal context from personal experience and discussion

 

Week 2

12th Feb 

Legal Research Skills

Distinguishing Criminal Cases and Civil Disputes

Types of Conflict

Reading: www.austlii.edu.au

Manual 2 P4-14

Activity: Research tasks

Begin character profiles Bogabilla case study

Library Workshop 2nd session- "Legal Research Skills"

 

Week 3

19th Feb 

Sources of Australian Law-Parliament

Reading: The Legislative Process p6 Manual See Canvas Course Rsources

Activity: Visit to Parliament House 1.30 to 3pm Monday 1st session 19th Feb

Introductory exercises "Parliament in context"

Video-parliamentary process

Continue character profiles-Bogabilla case study

 

Week 4

26th Feb

 

Sources of Australian Law-The Constitution

Reading:  Evolution of Parliament in Australia:Manual p3-5 See Canvas Course Resources

Activity: Consolidation questions

Continue character profiles-Bogabilla case study

-

Week 5

5th March

The Adversary System of Trial

 

Reading: The Adversary System  Manual 2 p2 See Canvas Course Resources

Activity: Visit to Victoria Police Museum 2nd session 7th March Film The Adversary System Consolidation questions

Continue character profiles -Bogabilla case study

 

Week 6

12th March

(Labour Day Holiday) 

The Australian Court Hierarchy-Federal Courts

Reading:Manual 1 p21-24 See Canvas Course Resources

Activity: Consolidation questions

Court visits

Continue character profiles- Bogabilla case study

 

 

Week 7

19th March

The Australian Court System-State Courts

 Reading:Manual 1 p15-21

Activity: Consolidation questions

Court visits

Continue character profiles- Bogabilla case study

 

Week 8

26th March

 

The Australian Court System-State Courts

Reading:Manual 1 p15-21 See Canvas Course Resources

Activity:Assessment preparation

Assessment 1:Memorandum

Due: 1st April 11.59 pm-online submission

Easter Break 29th March-4th April

Week 9

9th April

Court Processes- Criminal and Civil Proceedings

Reading: Manual 2 p18-30 See Canvas Course Resources

Activity: Consolidation questions

 

Week 10

16th April

Precedent

Research-Finding Case Law

Reading: Manual 2 p40-46 -See Canvas Resources

Activity: Case studies and Consolidation questions

 

Week 11

23rd April

Precedent-Statutory Interpretation

Reading: Manual 2 p48-52 -See Canvas Resources

Activity: Case studies and consolidation questions

 

Week 12

30th April 

Alternative Dispute Resolution

Tribunals

Using Mediation to Resolve Conflict

Reading: p34-38 Manual 2 -See Canvas Course Resources

Activity: Case Studies and Consolidation questions

 

Week 13

7th May 

Research and Presentation Skills

Assessment Preparation

 

Week 14

14th May

Presentation

 

Assessment 2: Presentation

Due 14th May in class submission

Week 15 21st May- Week 16 28th May

Resubmission period

 

 

The Teaching Schedule for this course is subject to change.

The nominal hours associated with this are a guide only and represent the total teaching time and student effort required to successfully complete the course.

This may include not only scheduled classes but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities including the self - paced activities in the workbooks.  


Learning Resources

Prescribed Texts

There are no prescribed texts for the course. All learning material is provided within Canvas.


References

Further learning materials provided in Canvas.


Other Resources

Learning Resources

All learning resources are available within Canvas.  Resources include reading materials, videos and activities.  There are Collaborate Ultra (webinar) sessions and online discussion boards.

All resources are available in the Canvas LMS.

Online learning materials can be accessed by going into the RMIT web sites Online Learning Hub.

MyRMIT

The online learning materials listed include:

• Course outline • PowerPoint Presentations  • Course Reading Manuals  • Supporting Reading material  • Industry relevant articles  • Various learning activities • Relevant legal websites 

It is recommended that you have a pen and a notebook to take notes and a device for use in all your classes.


Overview of Assessment

In order to achieve competency in this unit, you must provide:

Performance Evidence   To demonstrate evidence of competency in this unit you must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified you must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion:   • communicating strategies with a diverse workforce and client base including strategies of assertiveness, listening, non verbal communication, language style, problem solving • using problem solving to deal with unexpected issues or attitudes • dealing with difficult situations and people.   Knowledge Evidence   To demonstrate evidence of competency in this unit you must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified your depth of knowledge demonstrated must be appropriate to the job context including:    • public sector legislation including WHS and environment, regulations, organisational policies, procedures and guidelines relating to conflict in the public sector workplace • types of conflict in the workplace and typical causes • conflict theory including signs, stages, levels, factors involved, results • group processes and roles people play • organisational structures and workplace culture • different social and cultural practices • conflict resolution skills and strategies • personal power and positional power • grievance procedures in the public sector.   Assessment Conditions   The assessment strategy must verify assessment requirements and practical application using more than one of the following assessment methods:   • written and/or oral assessment of the learners required knowledge • documented observation of the learners implementation of appropriate requirements, procedures and techniques for the safe, effective, and efficient achievement of required outcomes • consistent achievement of required outcomes • first hand testimonial evidence of the learners working with others to understand and complete the performance evidence assessment requirements.   Feedback   Feedback will be provided throughout the semester in class and/or online discussions. You are encouraged to ask and answer questions during class time and online sessions to obtain feedback on your understanding of the concepts and issues being discussed. You can also email or arrange an appointment with your teacher to gain further feedback on your progress.    You should take note of all feedback received and use this information to improve your learning outcomes and final performance in the course.


Assessment Tasks

In order to be deemed competent in this course you will need to satisfactorily complete all of the following assessments:

  Assessment Task 1 - Legal Memorandum & Research Table (written report) Due Date:  End of Week 8  The aim of this assessment is for you to investigate the Australian legal system using primary and secondary sources and apply relevant principles of law.   You will need to produce:  
  • a research table listing relevant information source and a brief explanation about how each source is accessed
  • an explanatory legal memorandum which clearly addresses the issues raised and references all important legal materials (maximum 1-2 pages).
Feedback for this assessment will be provided in week 10.   Assessment Task 2 - Presentation (Multimedia & Oral Presentation) Due Date: Week 14 Session 1   The aim of this assessment is for you to investigate the Australian legal system and analyse conflict situations to establish and implement strategies for dealing with conflict.   Your presentation must address the following points:  
  • Define the terms statute law and precedent giving examples of each in relation to the case study
  • A detailed explanation of criminal law using two examples
  • A detailed explanation of civil law using two examples
  • Explain how the Australian federal parliament makes law in Australia
  • Discuss examples of possible conflict situations such as those faced by Bernie in the Bogabiila case study and ways of resolving such conflict
Feedback for this assessment will be provided in week 16.   NOTE:  Details about specific tasks and assessment criteria will be included in each of the Assessment tasks documents listed in Canvas (Learning Management System) under Assignments heading.


Assessment Matrix

No

Name of Assessment Task

Method of Assessment

Elements

Performance Criteria

Foundation Skills

Performance Evidence

Knowledge Evidence

Assessment Conditions

1.

Memorandum

Written Report

E1 PC 1.1-1.5

E2 PC 2.4 2.5

E3 PC 3.1-3.3

 

1-3

1-3

1-9

NA

2.

Presentation

 

Oral Presentation

E1 PC 1.1 -1.5

E2 PC 2.1-2.3

 

1-3

1-3

1-9

NA

Other Information

Submission Requirements

You should:

  • Ensure that you submit assessments on or before the due date.

  • Always retain a copy of your assessment tasks. (hard copy and soft copy)

  • When you submit work for assessment at RMIT University you need to use a cover sheet that includes a declaration and statement of authorship. You must complete, sign and submit a cover sheet with all work you submit for assessment, whether individual or group work. On the cover sheet you declare that the work you are presenting for assessment is your own work. An assignment cover sheet for submission of each assessment task is available on Canvas.

  • Each page of your assessment should include footer with your name, student number, the title of the assessment, unit code and title and page numbers. For example, Jane Smith, 324567, Task 2, OHS2345C Ensure safe workplace, Page 1 of 10.

Late Submission Procedures

You are required to submit assessment items and/or ensure performance based assessment is completed by the due dates.   If you are prevented from submitting an assessment item on time, by circumstances outside your control, you may apply in advance to your teacher for an extension to the due date of up to seven calendar days.    More Information: https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/assessment/extensions-of-time-for-submission-of-assessable-work   Form to use: http://mams.rmit.edu.au/seca86tti4g4z.pdf   Where an extension of greater than seven days is needed, you must apply for special consideration. Applications for special consideration must be submitted no later than two working days after the assessment task deadline or scheduled examination.   More Information: https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/assessment/special-consideration   Form to use:  http://mams.rmit.edu.au/m9yljqvw15di.pdf 

Re-submissions (VET Programs)

If you are found to be unsuccessful in a particular Course Assessment Task (or you do not submit/attend) you will be allowed one resubmission.  Your teacher will provide feedback regarding what you need to do to improve and will set a new deadline for the resubmission.   If you are still not meeting the assessment requirements you must apply to your Program Manager in writing outlining the steps you will take to demonstrate competence in your course. Your submission will be considered by the Program Team and you will be advised of the outcome as soon as possible.    Adjustments to Assessment   In certain circumstances students may be eligible for an assessment adjustment. For more information about the circumstances under which the assessment arrangements might be granted please access the following website:   More Information: https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/assessment/adjustments-to-assessment   Marking Guide (Competency)   You must demonstrate that you have all the required skills/knowledge/elements in the unit of competency you are studying.   You will receive feedback on each assessment task that will inform you about your progress and how well you are performing.   Final Grades Table   CA - Competency Achieved  NYC - Not Yet Competent DNS - Did Not Submit for assessment    Further information regarding the application of the grading criteria will be provided by your teacher.

Course Overview: Access Course Overview