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Cooperative Problem Solving
This module, developed by Search for
Common Ground, consists of 15 separate units plus core
materials intended for use with all units. This workshop is designed for
use with groups who want to understand and practice the cooperative problem-solving model for managing conflict. The process focuses on encouraging mutual agreement and developing positive relationships.
Overview: These materials are intended for use with all units.
The Cooperative Problem Solving Guide is intended as the main handout for
all units; the copyright statement included with the core materials applies
to all units (separate versions are provided with individual units for
trainers running only one or two units).
Download all "Core materials" as a
zip file
Download individual core components:
Unit overview: This unit serves as an introduction to the full
module.
Duration: 35 minutes
Download the complete "Introduction to the
workshop" unit as a zip file
Download individual components:
Unit overview: An introduction to the concept of and issues
involved in Cooperative Problem Solving.
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Download the complete "Introduction to
Cooperative Problem Solving" unit as a zip file
Download individual components:
Unit overview: The way we raise an issue has a significant effect on the entire problem-solving process. By raising an issue in a constructive way, we set the stage early for resolving the conflict productively. The purpose of this
unit is to give participants an opportunity to practice and explore this type of problem solving.
Duration: 30 minutes
Download the complete "Raising an issue"
unit as a zip file
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Unit overview: The message of this unit is that it is only by listening to understand that we create the possibility of then being understood.
Duration: 1 hour
Download the complete "Listening"
unit as a zip file
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Unit overview: The message of this unit that by understanding the difference between positions and interests, you greatly increase your ability to find common ground.
Duration: 1.5 hours
Download the complete "Discovering
interests" unit as a zip file
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Unit overview: This unit deals with one of the "non-linear" dimensions of cooperative problem solving - perceptions. If we understand that each of us experiences the world differently, then we can use our different perceptions as sources of creativity and understanding, rather than as sources of dissent.
Duration: 50 minutes
Download the complete "Working with
perceptions" unit as a zip file
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Unit overview: The message of this unit is that emotions are normal in a conflict situation, and they can contribute to problem solving if you learn how to manage them.
Duration: 35 minutes
Download the complete "Respecting emotions"
unit as a zip file
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Unit overview: The message of this unit is that once we have discovered the interests of the parties to a conflict, it is often useful to generate options before developing an agreement.
Duration: 35 minutes
Download the complete "Generating options"
unit as a zip file
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Unit overview: The message of this unit is that there are certain
techniques available that can make it easier to develop agreements. One of
them is using standards.
Duration: 15 minutes
Download the complete "Using standards"
unit as a zip file
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Unit overview: It may appear that CPS is simply about carrying out a set of "steps," but that is not the case. It is primarily about developing a relationship of cooperation. This requires an attitude of respect for yourself and for the other person that is independent of your competence - or your success - in carrying out the steps in CPS.
Duration: 40 minutes
Download the complete "Being a peacemaker"
unit as a zip file
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Unit overview: This unit explores the "Best Alternative to
a Negotiated Agreement" or BATNA.
Duration: 20 minutes
Download the complete "BATNA" unit as
a zip file
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Unit overview: Cooperative Problem Solving is sometimes the best way to deal with a problem. However, sometimes other strategies are desirable. It is possible to assess a situation and choose an appropriate approach.
Duration: 1 hour
Download the complete "Choice" unit
as a zip file
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Unit overview: This "Back Home Action Planning" unit offers an opportunity for individuals to plan how they will apply their new CPS skills in their back-home environment.
Duration: 40 minutes
Download the complete "BHAP" unit as
a zip file
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Unit overview: This provides an opportunity for the workshop leaders to learn how well the workshop was received, and
to identify areas for improvement.
Duration: 15 minutes
Download the complete "Workshop evaluation"
unit as a zip file
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Unit overview: This unit closes the workshop with certificates
of attendance.
Duration: 15 minutes
Download the complete "Workshop close"
unit as a zip file
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The whole Cooperative Problem Solving module may be downloaded as a single
zip file.
Copyright information
All MMTK materials are released under a Creative
Commons license which allows their free use and distribution for
non-commercial use. However, the exact provisions of the license vary from
module to module - while most modules permit modification of the materials,
a few do not. The copyright statement included with each module sets out
the specific provisions which apply to that module.
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