Introductory Training Weekend on Problem Solving Workshops

Training Opportunity in Facilitating Problem-Solving Workshops, October 23^rd & 24^th, 2010.

The Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution (George Mason University) in partnership with the International Peace and Conflict Resolution Program (American University) is pleased to offer an introductory skill training weekend on the facilitative method of the problem-solving workshop, pioneered by John Burton, Herbert Kelman and other scholar-practitioners in the field of conflict resolution. This training session is offered to graduate students, alumni and others associated with ICAR and IPCR who have interest in developing or extending their practice skills in the design, facilitation and evaluation of problem-solving workshops (PSWs). This event is intended to be a prerequisite to a series of advanced training workshops.

PSWs are the prototype method of interactive conflict resolution, which can also include dialogue, conflict resolution training, and reconciliation between members of conflicting groups. PSWs are specifically designed to engage unofficial representatives or members of such groups in jointly analyzing their conflict with the assistance of third party facilitators and in creating mutually acceptable options for de-escalation, peacebuilding and resolution.

The design of the training weekend will include:

• The general theory of practice of PSWs
• The selection and invitation of participants
• The process of running a PSW from invitations to re-entry
• Skill practice with feedback in the facilitator role
• Common issues that arise in PSWs and how to deal with them
• Common agenda items for PSWs
• Common forms of facilitator intervention

The weekend workshop is free of charge to invited participants and will be held at Point of View, the ICAR retreat and conference facility approximately thirty minutes south of downtown DC. The workshop is non-residential and the sessions will be held from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturday, October 23^rd and Sunday, October 24^th. Refreshments and lunches will be provided and a pay-on-your-own dinner will be arranged for Saturday evening. Transportation will have to be provided by private vehicles, but car pooling will be facilitated. A pre-workshop reading packet will be provided and all other materials and supplies will be available at the training.

If you are interested in taking part in this workshop, please complete the attached application form and email it to Rebecca Davis, IPCR Program Coordinator, at [email protected] by Friday, September 24th.  

Please note that not all applications may be accepted, but that a similar introductory training weekend is planned for the Spring of 2011. Please indicate your interest in advanced trainings, focusing on challenges in PSW facilitation on the application form. If you have any questions, please call or email any one of the trainers for this program of workshops: Chris Mitchell at ICAR, Susan Allen Nan at ICAR, Ron Fisher at IPCR, Mohammed Abu-Nimer at IPCR, or Jannie Botes at the University of Baltimore.

Best Wishes,