This course will present an overview of gender-based communication and conflict resolution strategies.  Students will learn how communication styles influence the development of conflict and affect relationships with others.  The focus in class will be on gender-based understanding through the work of Deborah Tannen and John Gray.

Through discussion, lecture and small group activities, students will learn to apply knowledge of gender-based issues to resolution strategies, relationship-building and new ways of understanding the other gender.

After passing this course, students should be able to:

• Identify common gender-based sources of communication difficulties and conflict;
• Discuss the fundamental premises of the work of Deborah Tannen and John Gray;
• Understand the impacts of communication and conflict on relationships with significant others, peers and friends;
• Identify positive communication styles that are suited for communication between men and women;
• Use a conflict resolution strategy to improve important relationships.

This course will involve lecture, class discussion, interactive skill building and reading. Students are expected to participate in discussion. Student attendance on both days is mandatory. Students are also expected to complete a six to eight page paper that integrates classroom information with required readings. The paper is expected to conform to APA style requirements and cite all four of the required readings. Options for the paper will be discussed in class. Completed papers will be due in the SAPP office by 3:00 p.m. SAPP is located at 180 Esslinger Building.

Students, who participate in class and produce an acceptable final paper will pass. The paper needs to be APA style, double spaced, 12-point font, with your name and name of class, 6-8 pages. They will include citations from all four required readings and they will focus on a topic or topics approved by the instructor.

50 pts = Participation
50 pts = Paper

(Extra credit points available; instructor will specify in class)

90 points or higher = A
80 - 89 points = B
70 - 79 points = C
60 - 69 points = D
59 points or lower = F
67 pts or better to receive a pass

Saturday, August 1

• Discussion of general sources of gender conflict
• Gender perspectives of Deborah Tannen and John Gray and the "different cultures" thesis
• Discussion of resolution strategies using new information

Sunday, August 2

• Continued presentation of Deborah Tannen and John Gray work
• Approaching conflict as a cooperative enterprise
• Conflict resolution and communication enhancement strategies

General Expectations:

Attendance for the full two days is expected of every student. Participation will enhance attendance, as will thoughtful questions and careful consideration of class materials. Having fun with the information will not be considered out of order.

Mandatory attendance for all class sessions.

Use of Personal Technology & Literature:

• Laptops may ONLY be used in class for the purpose of note taking. Web surfing, games, instant messaging, email, and working on homework for other classes tends to be distracting to others and is prohibited during class time. If you find you must do otherwise, please excuse yourself for the remainder of the class time. However, you will not earn participation points for that day.
• Non-course materials - Magazines, books, newspapers and other literature, including homework from other classes, may be a distraction for others in class and is therefore prohibited. Please save these activities for time other than in class.
• Music/Video player use during class is strictly prohibited. This is a definite distraction for others.
• Cell phones are to be silenced and not used during class time. This includes sending or receiving calls or use of text messaging. If you find you need to use your cell phone, please excuse yourself for the remainder of the class time. However, you will not earn participation points for that day.