NCJ Number
160361
Date Published
1993
Length
485 pages
Annotation
This curriculum is presented in 12 units that are designed to teach students K-6 the concepts and skills that will enable them to resolve conflict creatively rather than through violence.
Abstract
The first seven units impart the concepts and skills of creative conflict resolution. Three units focus on appreciating diversity, bias awareness, and countering bias. The final two units address peacemakers and peacemaking, as well as the creation of a positive future. The lessons are presented in a "workshop" format. A workshop is a certain amount of time (usually 15 minutes to an hour) set aside specifically for teaching conflict resolution. The role of the teacher in a workshop is not so much to impart knowledge as to be a trainer or facilitator, providing experiences that enable students to make their own discoveries and improve their own skills. The format of a lesson consists of "gathering," "check agenda," "body of workshop," "evaluation," and "closing." The "gathering" brings the group together to open the lesson and is usually an activity that involves everyone and affirms both individuals and the group. The "agenda check" lets students know what to expect from the day's activities and provides them an opportunity to comment on and possibly modify the agenda. The "body of the workshop" consists of activities designed to help students learn a particular concept or skill. The "evaluation" gives students an opportunity to state how they felt about the workshop, so that subsequent lessons can be adjusted to their needs. The appendix contains a glossary of teaching strategies, guidelines for discussing controversial issues, and permissions. A subject index