Conflict Management: Winning Isn't Everything

We’ve all heard a coach say, “There is no I in team.” Collaborative communication involves teamwork. The Transaction model sees communication as something we do with one another (Cahn & Abigail, 2007). Of course, we can begin to blame our negative reaction to a problem on our emotions. But the fact of the matter is we have a responsibility to control ourselves. When a triggering event occurs, also known as the “beginning of the problem,” we must remember to stop. Stop is the first step in the S-TLC system (Cahn & Abigail, 2007). By giving yourself time to pause and analyze the situation you are more likely to gain control of your mental state.

The next step in the S-TLC technique is to think. How many times have we said or done something we’ve regretted without thinking?  Analyzing the situation is imperative in order to de-escalate the conflict and decide if the conflict is real or unreal. 

If you decide a real conflict exists, action is needed. Real conflicts range from minor issues to those serious enough to damage a relationship (Cahn & Abigail, 2007).  To effectively solve problems you must work together with the opposing party rather than competing. Letting the other person know how you feel by owning feelings and shying away from physical and verbally abusive behavior is key. Using “I” statements prevents the opposing party from turning defensive. “You” language points blame and avoids responsibility (Cahn & Abigail, 2007).

There are two sides to every story. No matter how passionate you are about your stance, there is always another view to consider. Voicing your side of the story and listening to the other person takes place in the differentiation phase. Both parties should voice concerns, wants, needs and potential solutions to the problem. Validating each others’ complaints is important.  When only one viewpoint is legitimate, conflict arises from an argument (Cahn & Abigail, 2007, pg 30). Of course, arguments impede the process of conflict resolution.

The win-lose system is so prevalent in our society. We unconsciously adapt this mindset in communication by favoring the idea of compromise. Compromise accommodates the needs of one party while leaving the other party somewhat dissatisfied. The preferred conflict strategy is collaboration where both parties find mutually satisfying solutions to issues (Cahn & Abigail, 2007). Collaboration requires both parties to act in a mature manner, pushing power struggles aside and doing the necessary steps to achieve a peaceful end.

Communication is about more than just saying what’s on our mind (Cahn & Abigail, 2007, pg 55). It is how we relate to anyone other than ourselves. Relationships are a big determinant to our personal and professional success. Learning how to effectively resolve problems is an important life tool. But first we must adapt an attitude that no one has to lose in conflict. Both parties can come out winners by working together, avoiding judgment, empathizing with each other and keeping an open mind (Cahn & Abigail, 2007, pg 53).

Writing a Proposal

Statement of Problem

According to U.S. census information, Hispanics are the fastest growing population in the United States.  The Hispanic origin population is expected to contribute 45 percent of the nation’s population growth from 2010 to 2030 (2010).  Ashford University has to better prepare students to operate in a bi-lingual society.  A growing Hispanic population is forcing most businesses to require employees to be proficient in English and Spanish.  Ashford graduates have the potential to be overlooked for jobs and promotions because they cannot speak, read, or write Spanish, even though they have a college degree.

Currently, Ashford only offers some Spanish classes as electives.  This leaves students with only a minimum amount of Spanish education, most likely forcing them to search elsewhere for upper-level Spanish classes.  Ashford must meet the growing and changing demands of society by providing students with an opportunity to become dual language learners.

Objective

This proposal outlines a feasible plan to begin implementation of an online Spanish degree program at Ashford University.  It will list the advantages for the student as well as university.

Proposed Plan

A curriculum plan is needed that involves reading and hands on approaches to learning Spanish. Most Universities require 1 year of beginning Spanish and 1 year of intermediate Spanish as a prerequisite for upper level courses.  After that students are able to take 300 and 400 level classes.  Administrators must find textbooks that come equipped with audio c.d.’s.  These c.d.’s will help students say words, phrases and sentences correctly and should go along with lesson plans.  These can either be purchased from an outside vendor or faculty members can come up with their own.  Upper and lower level classes will follow the same approach, educational literature and audio.  Other required courses should be Spanish writing and grammar. Spanish Electives are also needed concerning Spanish history, culture and literature.  Studying abroad in a Spanish country could also be offered for college credit.  Students would have to pay out of pocket for trip expenses.

Incorporating Rosetta Stone Classroom software is also an excellent learning tool for the online Spanish program.  Rosetta Stone is responsible for countless success stories of everyday people becoming bi-lingual.  Rosetta Stone’s interactive software helps students build proficiency in listening comprehension, speaking, writing and reading (1999-2010).  Classroom software comes with c.d.’s, lessons and activities for students in higher education.  To order software or to find out pricing information you would have to contact a representative online or by phone at rosettastone.com.

Conclusion

Competition is heating up among colleges and universities as they strive to provide the best online programs.  Currently, top online schools such as Phoenix and Kaplan University do not offer Spanish degrees.  By implementing this program Ashford University has the potential to become more attractive to future and prospective students.