I was struck in this module by the TED Talk given by Campbell ad Clarke (2015) in which the presenters discuss the desirability of using conflict to promote creativity and innovation by looking at situations from other perspectives. I think this is a skill that can work in an educational setting, given the right people involved. Both parties would need to come to the discussion prepared to hear the perspectives of the other before any progress could be made. This is a skill that can be modelled, taught and expected by leaders both of teachers and students. Most people do not go into situations of conflict just to be oppositional (though, it must be acknowledged that some people are bull-headed). I take the view that perhaps the other party in the conflict knows or feels something I don’t know about. If I take the time to investigate why they think or feel the way they do, I can understand their perspective more clearly. Perhaps they may have a point. And perhaps not. I will admit, though, that I am more likely to spend time and effort on these issues if the person I am in conflict with is someone who’s opinion I usually respect. This I have the luxury to indulge because I am not currently their leader. If I were to become their leader, I would need to change this. Taking the self-assessment, results show that I am relatively good at compromise and collaboration, but also score above half-way for avoidance, competing and accommodating. I believe this is probably true and reflects my tendency to approach conflicts differently with different people. I would like to improve my skills in turning conflict into an opportunity to grow by exploring other perspectives. I think this could be a very powerful tool in the right hands.

Campbell, C.M & Clarke, S. [TEDx Talks ]. (2015).  Conflict – Use it, don’t defuse it [Video]. YouTube.  https://youtu.be/o97fVGTjE4w