Course Syllabus

SPEA M547 Negotiation and Dispute Resolution for Public Affairs – Fall 2026, Section 6192 (3 credits) 

Class meeting times: TuTh, 3:55 to 5:10 p.m. 

Class meeting location: SPEA PV A273 

Instructor: Daniel B. Griffith, JD (please email instructor via Canvas) 

 

INTRODUCTION: 

Content: This is a survey of dispute resolution in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Also called alternative or appropriate dispute resolution (ADR), this includes negotiation, mediation, and arbitration as processes for resolving conflict. We will study systems that use these processes (dispute system design or DSD) in courts, labor relations, employment, consumer transactions, community justice, family conflict, environmental and public policy contexts. We will also address voice processes in collaborative governance, including public engagement and global conflict management. 

Teaching Philosophy: This course is taught at three levels: 

• It develops interactive people skills through simulations to practice negotiation and mediation.  

• It introduces the interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary field of negotiation and dispute resolution, which encompasses literature from social psychology, law, political science, economics, international affairs, and other disciplines.  

• It applies this literature and institutional analysis to dispute system design, so that you can use your skills within a specific context.  

In addition to class lectures and discussion, we will practice basic negotiation and mediation skills through in-class exercises, simulations, video, and occasional Zoom synchronous and asynchronous interactions. For the first half of the course, we concentrate on building basic negotiation skills (principled/interest-based negotiation and competitive/hard bargaining). We then apply these skills in simulations as the mediator, a neutral third party who helps disputants negotiate. The remainder of the course will examine theory, practice, and research on ADR in different systems, including empirical evidence on how systems such as arbitration perform. To maintain a constructive environment for simulations in class, I do not grade on how students negotiate or mediate. 

Instruction format: This course is taught in person, though a very limited number of class periods may be taught via synchronous and asynchronous learning formats using Zoom and Canvas. All students are expected to attend class Tuesdays and Thursdays. 

• We will Mix People in Simulations from Week to Week. In order to make sure that all students experience many people’s negotiating styles, we will mix up groups in simulations from week to week. 

• In-class lectures will typically be short and/or recorded and available via Canvas for review before class to reserve time for discussion and simulations: It is essential that you thoroughly study the readings and review any recorded lectures before class. Without this preparation, you will not learn as much from practicing negotiation, mediation, or arbitration skills in simulations. 

• Office Hours and Individual Appointments: I am not on campus other than to teach on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We may be able to meet briefly before class. Otherwise, we can arrange to meet via phone call or Zoom at a time that works for your and my schedule. I will be scheduling short 15-minute meetings with each of you during the third and fourth weeks of the semester to discuss your final course project (please review the syllabus).  

 

COURSE OBJECTIVES AND STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES: 

• To become an ethical negotiator on behalf of yourself and others using integrative or interest-based bargaining; 

• To analyze and prepare for negotiating, apply negotiation analysis to hypothetical cases, and practice it in class simulations so that you can apply it in real life; 

• To recognize distributive and bad faith bargaining tactics and respond effectively; 

• To be capable of intervening in conflict among others and as a mediator assist them in negotiating a resolution or reaching consensus on next steps; 

• To become a more informed participant in adjudicative processes such as fact-finding and arbitration; 

• To analyze a dispute system design, its steps, structures, processes, strategic advantages and disadvantages, costs and benefits, and be able to propose improvements that will enhance fairness and justice; 

• To evaluate how conflict management systems perform, and 

• To apply conflict resolution and management concepts in your personal and professional lives. 

 

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: 

There is one required text to purchase, one optional text, and required readings at no cost on Canvas: 

• Required Text: Roger Fisher, William L. Ury, and Bruce Patton, Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In  (3d Ed.) New York:  Penguin Books (2011). This paperback text is abbreviated GTY in the syllabus. It is available inexpensively and used from Amazon. 

• Optional Additional Text: Some readings are drawn from Lisa Blomgren Amsler, Janet K. Martinez, and Stephanie E. Smith, Dispute System Design: Preventing, Managing, and Resolving Conflict (Stanford University Press 2020). This book is abbreviated DSD in the syllabus. I will provide electronic files in Canvas of the uncorrected page proofs for any chapters that are assigned as required readings. While not required, if you wish to purchase the published textbook, you can do so through Stanford University Press at https://www.sup.org/books/law/dispute-system-design  

• Canvas Modules:  

• Modules: Each week represents a Module. Each Module will link to required readings, video of lectures, powerpoint files, discussion topics, and other materials. Note: Content and format will vary with each module. Recorded lectures and Powerpoints may not be provided for all modules. 

• Canvas PDF Files of Required Readings: Except for GTY, all required readings are hyperlinked in the pages for the related modules. They also collected in the Files folder in Canvas. 

• Powerpoints: To the extent I use PowerPoint slides for lectures and/or class, I will post and link them to the related Module.  

• Final Paper Research Resources: There are also materials to help you get started with your final research project. In Canvas Files, explore the Research Resources folder. It contains subfolders on various topics, within which you will find book chapters, scholarly journal articles, statutes, and government publications. These will not be linked in Modules. Please use them to think about a paper topic, but do not rely solely on these materials to conduct your research and write your paper. 

• Assignments: I will post detailed instructions in Assignments for the two reading response papers, reflection journal, outline for final paper, presentation, and final paper. 

• Simulations and Exercises: I will distribute general information for simulations. However, most simulations require that you also receive a role with confidential information. Usually, you will receive that information shortly before class or, in some cases, a few days in advance of class. I will distribute roles by email and/or in class. 

 

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES AND ASSIGNMENTS: 

WRITTEN ASSIGNMENTS: Effective, concise, accurate, and forceful prose is an essential negotiation skill. Writing quality can affect your grade. All assignments represent exercises in formal and professional prose. On reading response papers and your final paper, I will grade partly on your writing. Please follow these rules on all written assignments: 

• Double-space text in 11-point font; 

• Indent paragraphs; 

• Paginate; 

• Observe page limits; 

• Avoid passive voice, nominalizations, run on sentences, and contractions; 

• Check for grammar, spelling, subject-verb agreement, punctuation, and other issues using tools in Word (it can highlight passive voice); 

• Favor shorter, succinct paragraphs, each paragraph covering a specific topic or thought rather than longer, drawn-out, jumbled paragraphs covering multiple points. (Also, avoid block paragraph formatting). 

• Do not include a title page; instead put your name and assignment title at the top of the first page of text. 

Note: Using AI (such as ChatGPT) to assist in completing assignments in this class is prohibited. See below regarding this and other policies involving academic integrity. 

LATENESS: For each day that an assignment is late without an approved extension, your grade may be reduced by a letter grade (e.g., from B+ to B if one day late). 

 

PARTICIPATION (80 points; 22.2%): In negotiation and dispute resolution, it is easy to read about something; it is harder to do it. This course combines theory with practice. 

• Reading Assignments: The full syllabus provides a table reflecting dates and reading assignments for each date. Readings help you prepare to participate in the simulation and discussion. 

• Simulations and Role Plays: For role plays in class on negotiation and mediation, you will receive both general information and/or confidential information about your role. In many cases, these will be distributed during the class period prior to the class in which the role-play will occur and/or distributed beforehand electronically via Canvas email. Simulations may involve 2, 3, 4, 7, or more people in groups. It is essential that you communicate with the instructor regarding any known and planned absences as your absence will effect the assignment of roles. IMPORTANT: Do not share your confidential information with anyone else in class until we complete the exercise and I direct you to debrief it.  

• Reflection Journal: To grade participation, in addition to your performance in class, we will use reflective practice as described by Schon in your Week 1 Module readings. Please keep a personal journal (11-point font double-spaced, paginated, with in-text citation to class readings) reflecting on your experience and performance in each class simulation or exercise. The journal also includes reflection on a few discussion questions related to course content. 

• The Reflection Journal is DUE SATURDAY, NOV. 21, 11:59 p.m. 

• An average reflection entry should be from half a page up to one page and cover each simulation or exercise we do in class that week, or discussion question. Some weeks we may only have one simulation/exercise, other weeks we may have 2-3. You should have one reflection entry for each in-class simulation or exercise and each online discussion question. 

• You must include citations to course readings for each reflection entry. Cite using the last name of the author and page number of relevant material in that reading. 

• Reflective practice depends on your immediate thoughts, reactions, or feelings about an experience. Ideally, you will complete each reflection entry as soon as possible after the respective class exercise. In each entry, reflect on how the assigned reading informs your practice. What were your strengths and weaknesses? If you had the simulation to do over again, how would you negotiate or mediate? Would you do anything differently? 

• We will also have many simulations and exercises, so reflecting immediately will help you compartmentalize the different experiences. In other words, do not wait until your journal is due to complete reflections for multiple exercises. It will be harder for you and less helpful in your skill-building and meaningful personal reflection. 

• Please note that your overall grade for the journal could be further impacted by omitted reflections. Deductions will apply after your third omitted reflection. A list of designated role-plays, simulations, and discussion questions for which reflections are expected is provided separately. Please also note requirements regarding attendance and absences in the next section. To track participation against journal entries, attendance will be recorded for all sessions in which a simulation is facilitated. 

• Note: Turnitin will be used when reviewing and grading this assignment. 

 

ATTENDANCE (0%; 0 points): Weekly formal attendance will not be taken. However, regular class attendance and partipation are expected. Please note further participation requirements which could impact your overall grade, including:  

• Participation and Journal requirements, as noted above.  

• Exception to attendance policy: Class Presentations on December 8 and 10. Your attendance is expected on both Tuesday, December 8 and Thursday, December 10. This includes both the day in which you are scheduled to do your presentation and the date you attend to support your classmates with their presentations. Absence from either day may result in an additional points deduction. 

• Notwithstanding these attendance requirement, the courtesy of communicating any known and planned absences is strongly encouraged. With respect to unanticipated absences, such as illnesses, communicating these prior to the beginning of class is appreciated, if possible. 

 

NEGOTIATION CASE ANALYSIS: BEECH HILL ROLE-PLAY (7%; 25 points). The Beech Hill negotiation role-play will occur on Tuesday/Thursday, September 15 & 17. Afterward, you will collaborate with your negotiating partner to analyze at least one issue. You will then prepare a short paper analyzing this issue, including the process for negotiating it and the outcome achieved. You will be graded on your individual analysis and paper. 

DUE DATE: POST TO CANVAS BY SUNDAY, SEPT. 27, 11:59 p.m. 

 

TWO READING RESPONSE (RR) PAPERS (16.65% each; 60 points each; 33.3% total, 120 total points): You will write two reading response papers on scholarly articles related to your final paper topic.  

• WRITING COUNTS: This assignment requires you to summarize research articles or chapters. The object is for you to learn how to translate complex public policy information into prose the average reader can understand. The average reading level in the U.S. is Eighth Grade. You must avoid passive voice, nominalizations (excess abstract nouns), contractions, noun strings, and run on or compound sentences. Write crisp, concise subject-verb-object sentences in active voice. Favor shorter, succinct paragraphs, with each paragraph covering a specific topic or thought, rather than longer, drawn-out, jumbled paragraphs covering multiple points. (Please also avoid block paragraph formatting). 

• CONTENT: These are 2-3 page, double-spaced, 11-point font summaries of key points in a scholarly article related to your paper topic in which you discuss how the material applies to your final paper thesis. The first reading response paper (RR1) should pertain to a article on the policy context for your final paper topic. The second reading response paper (RR2) should pertain to ADR specifically as it relates to the final paper topic. 

DUE DATES: 

• RR1: POST TO CANVAS BY SUNDAY., OCT. 25, 11:59 p.m.: Scholarly article on the policy context for your final paper topic 

• RR2: POST TO CANVAS BY FRI., NOV. 13, 11:59 p.m.: Scholarly article about ADR specifically as it relates to your final paper topic 

 

FINAL PAPER (27.7%; 100 points): Write a final paper that is 12-15 pages (not including references), double-spaced in 11-point font on a topic or project approved by me in advance. The topic must relate to the subject matter of the course: negotiation, mediation, arbitration, dispute system design, collaborative public management or networks, collaborative governance, public engagement, or other course material. For this paper, you may do original social science qualitative or quantitative research, carry out a project for an organization, or do a traditional research paper. Each final paper must include a scholarly literature review with at least fifteen references to the relevant interdiscipinary literature in law, psychology, sociology, anthropology, political science, economics, and/or public affairs. I have put scholarly material that may be useful for your paper in the Research Resources folder in Canvas. 

• OFFICE HOURS TO DISCUSS PAPER TOPICS: I plan to hold a brief 15-minute meeting with each student to discuss your paper topic to ensure you are on track regarding the assignment and so that we can fit it to your career goals. I will facilitate a process for signing up for these meetings. Most meetings will occur virtually. 

• SCHEDULE MEETINGS, WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 6 (Class: Tuesday, Sept. 8 and Thursday, Sept. 10) 

• HOLD MEETINGS TO DISCUSS FINAL PAPER TOPICS: BETWEEN MON., 9/14 AND MON. 9/21) 

• PAPER TOPIC DUE FRI., OCT. 2, 11:59 p.m. (2.8%; 10 points): Please submit a paragraph description of your paper topic via Canvas. 

• ANNOTATED OUTLINE DUE FRI., DEC. 4, 11:59 p.m. (7%; 25 points): Detailed instructions for the final paper and required annotated outline are provided on Canvas. Please use Chicago Manual of Style or APA format for both. Do not use a references section or bibliography for the outline. Include complete reference information for each citation in the body of the outline The outline is single-spaced and may not to exceed 3 pages. Submit electronic copy on Canvas. 

• FINAL PAPER DUE MONDAY, DEC. 14, 5:00 p.m. (27.7%; 100 points) For the final paper, please use in-text citations in the body of the paper and provide an alphabetical References section containing complete citations at the end. Do not use footnotes or endnotes. The final paper is 12-15 pages double-spaced and 11 point font, not including the references section. 

 

NO FINAL EXAMINATION: There is no final examination in this course. 

 

COURSE GRADES:  

Your grade will consist of the following: 

 Participation, including Reflection Journal: 22.2% (80 points) 

 Attendance (role-plays only): 0% (0 points) 

 Negotiation Case Analysis: Beech Hill 7% (25 points) 

 Reading Response Papers: 33.3% (2 papers, 2 pages each double-spaced, 11 pt. font, 16.65% each) (60 pts. each; 120 pts. total) 

 Individual Final Paper: 37.5%  

• Topic (explanatory paragraph) (10 pts.; 2.8%) 

• Annotated Outline (3 pages single-spaced) (25 pts.; 7%)  

• Brief Presentation 

• Final Paper (10-12 pages, double-spaced, 11 pt. font (100 pts.; 27.7%) 

• TOTAL FOR FINAL PAPER (135 pts.) (37.5%) 

 FINAL GRADE AVERAGE (360 points) 100% 

                         Grade Scale 

97<100%        A+     63<67%            D  

93<97%           A       60<63%            D- 

90<93%           A-      00<60%            F 

87<90%           B+ 

83<87%           B 

80<83%           B- 

77<80%           C+ 

73<77%           C 

70<73%           C- 

67<70%           D+