Course Overview:

This course equips participants with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to effectively manage and resolve conflicts that arise within multi-disciplinary teams. With organizations increasingly relying on cross-functional collaboration, understanding the dynamics of diverse expertise, communication styles, and team roles is critical. Through theoretical foundations, case studies, and practical exercises, learners will explore how to diagnose, mediate, and resolve conflict constructively, turning potential friction into opportunities for innovation and growth.
Ideal for project managers, team leads, cross-functional team members, and HR professionals, this course emphasizes real-world application across industries such as healthcare, tech, education, and corporate environments.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

1. Identify common sources and types of conflict in multi-disciplinary teams.
2. Analyze the impact of disciplinary diversity on team dynamics.
3. Apply key conflict resolution frameworks and negotiation strategies.
4. Improve communication and collaboration across varied professional roles.
5. Facilitate inclusive and psychologically safe team environments.
6. Mediate disputes and facilitate collaborative problem-solving.
7. Transform conflicts into opportunities for team learning and performance improvement.

15-Module Course Outline:
Module 1: Introduction to Conflict in Multi-Disciplinary Teams
* Definitions and types of conflict
* Unique challenges of cross-disciplinary collaboration
* Course structure and expectations
Module 2: Understanding Team Dynamics and Roles
* Role theory and power structures
* Functional diversity and team interdependence
* The Tuckman model (Forming–Storming–Norming–Performing–Adjourning)
Module 3: Sources of Conflict in Cross-Functional Settings
* Communication breakdowns
* Misaligned goals and expectations
* Differences in expertise, terminology, and priorities
Module 4: Communication Styles and Misunderstandings
* High-context vs low-context communication
* Listening skills and assertiveness
* Cultural and disciplinary language barriers
Module 5: Emotional Intelligence in Conflict Resolution
* Self-awareness and empathy
* Managing emotional triggers
* Building trust and psychological safety
Module 6: Conflict Resolution Frameworks and Models
* Interest-Based Relational (IBR) approach
* Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument (TKI)
* Principled negotiation (Harvard model)
Module 7: Conflict Assessment and Diagnosis
* Mapping stakeholders and their interests
* Root cause analysis (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone diagram)
* Escalation paths and thresholds
Module 8: The Role of Leadership in Resolving Conflict
* Leadership styles and conflict outcomes
* Creating shared vision and alignment
* Coaching and mentoring in conflict situations
Module 9: Mediation and Facilitation Techniques
* The role of a neutral third party
* Structuring mediation conversations
* Creating win-win solutions
Module 10: Collaborative Problem Solving
* Consensus-building techniques
* Brainstorming and ideation tools
* Integrating multidisciplinary inputs into decisions
Module 11: Tools for Virtual and Hybrid Teams
* Conflict challenges in remote settings
* Digital communication tools and etiquette
* Facilitating difficult conversations online
Module 12: Managing Power Dynamics and Hierarchies
* Recognizing formal and informal power
* Addressing dominance and marginalization
* Encouraging equitable participation
Module 13: Case Studies in Multi-Disciplinary Conflict
* Real-world conflict scenarios from healthcare, tech, and engineering
* Group analysis and facilitated discussions
* Lessons learned and best practices
Module 14: Designing Conflict-Resilient Teams
* Preventative strategies
* Ground rules and team charters
* Continuous feedback loops
Module 15: Final Project & Reflective Practice
* Personal action plan for conflict competence
* Reflective journaling and peer feedback