Suggests a system for classifying problems to help educators identify their problems and understand their complexity. Presents the Problem-Identification Matrix, which helps clarify the cause-and-effect relationship that exists in any problematic situation. (WD)

A modified Delphi Technique can be used to reach consensus in decision making and conflict resolution. Such an approach was used in the Paramus (New Jersey) Public Schools to resolve a conflict between principals and a committee of parents, students, and specialists concerning a program for gifted and talented students. (Author/MLF)

Provides excerpts from taped interviews with three women who have emerged as leaders in the desegregated schools movement in Louisville, Kentucky and surrounding Jefferson County. (Author/AM)

Studied what modes were preferred by inmates to resolve conflict in a correctional setting and measured whether 66 inmates' participation in a 12-hour cognitive treatment program would improve their ability to handle conflict. Findings indicate that cognitive training programs hold promise in the minimum security correctional environment. (RJM)

Investigates the association among dysfunctional relationship beliefs, problem-solving responses, and satisfaction in close relationships. Finds that persons who believe that disagreement is destructive and that partners cannot change are likely to leave or neglect a troubled relationship, to avoid voicing their concerns, and to report lower…

Argues that all students be taught how to negotiate and mediate and learn the role of the mediator. Three steps in managing conflicts are examined: establishing a cooperative context; creating intellectual conflicts; and establishing a peer-mediation program. The theory and research underlying these steps are reviewed. (GLR)

Demonstrates the practical applications of a problem-solving curriculum called Personal Power. Discusses how to begin such a curriculum and describes the content of the program which teaches youth in conflict to weigh the costs and benefits of alternative solutions to problems. Offers a sample lesson in problem solving. (RJM)

Discusses the use of electronic mail within the general resolution and management of administrative problems and emphasizes the need for careful attention to problem definition and clarity of language. Presents a research-based five-step model for the effective use of electronic mail based on experiences at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.…

In 2006, more than 6 million individuals were victimized by violent crimes. Although violence is below levels of the early 1990s, it remains high. The extent of violence and its impact highlight a critical need to develop and implement effective programs to reduce violence and victimization. Communities have initiated a wide range of such…

This paper briefly introduces alternative dispute resolution (ADR) processes and their fundamental principles. The paper provides a review of the literature on ADR and discusses its applicability in educational settings. The concept of conflict is explained, along with analysis of the limitations of traditional conflict resolution processes. The…

The criterion of topicality must be met by all advocates of academic debate policy in order to achieve effective and organized argument. The plan upon which each individual debate round is built must first satisfy the requirements imposed by the resolution. The policy proposal should answer the question of whether the affirmative plan, as a whole,…

Decisionmaking involves the conception of the situation, a perception of the attitudes of others toward the problem, an understanding of the various alternatives available and their predictable consequences, and an ability to predict the acceptance of any given decision. The author contends that to regard implementation of the decision as part of…

This progress report contains a summary of an evaluation of the Cycle I field trial of the Social Conflict and Negotiative Problem Solving instructional system, which was developed by the Improving Teaching Competencies Program of the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory. The evaluation was done to document the field trial workshop, collect…