| Keywords: | Communication; Preventing Conflict |
| Objectives: | Understanding the causes of conflict. Resolving conflict successfully. |
| Target group: | Small groups of migrants, divided by gender. A good level of the target language is essential. |
| Duration: | 145 minutes |
| Methodology step-by-step: | 1. Introduce the topic with the help of a powerpoint presentation. The presentation should include why conflict arises and what the obstacles to communication are. Possible explanations: a) Semantic barriers can lead to misunderstandings; the recipient of the message may not understand properly what the speaker means. b) Conflict can also be caused by individual prejudices, values and attitudes. Define ‘prejudice’ and demonstrate that prejudice can work both ways. Give the example of migrant communities; there is often prejudice against them from their host country, but the migrant communities also have their own prejudices against their host country. 2. Carry out role-plays of conflict situations, which must be situations that the participants can relate to. Prepare these role plays in advance. 3. Discuss the situations and role plays, pointing out where individual perceptions and prejudice played a role in the conflict. 4. Guide the participants to look for solutions themselves; ask them how they would manage the conflict; make them aware of their own conflict management skills – whether they are constructive or destructive. After this discussion, present ways to resolve or prevent conflict. NOTE: If no-one wants to carry out the role play, it is possible to read out the situation and then continue with the discussion. Do not call the role play ‘a game’, as it may deter people from wanting to do it. |
| Resources needed: | Powerpoint presentation |
| Challenges: | The role plays could cause real conflict; be ready to mediate if this occurs. |