For the first time in its history, the Conflict Management Certificate Program (CMCP) is being offered online. Based out of Grebel’s PACS Department, the program offers workshops in a variety of conflict management and mediation practices. Spring workshops have transitioned to an online format to facilitate learning from home in accordance with COVID-19 physical-distancing policies. Susan Baker, who manages the CMCP, explained that the pandemic was the impetus to bring the program’s interactive workshops online. “Engaging in the inaugural Conflict Coaching workshop opened my eyes to the potential of online learning.”
The first online training session took place in early April. “I wasn’t sure the online format would be effective for me, but I was pleasantly surprised,” one of its participants said. “At no time did I feel that this format was ‘less than’ the classroom workshop version. In fact, I found it suited my learning style preferences even better.” Features like virtual breakout sessions rooms aided the interaction. Another participant found the course to be “engaging and enriching” and “will definitely be interested in more online delivery options to balance professional, personal, and geographic restrictions.”
Some of the sessions have already filled up, as people across Canada and the US who would not normally have the opportunity to travel to Grebel are taking advantage of this interactive online learning.
Organizers have been so pleased with the impact of the first workshops and the opportunities this creates for international participation, that the CMCP looks forward to continuing virtual options once physical distancing measures are over. Baker acknowledges the collaboration with Credence and Co., who are instrumental in making this online model of content delivery possible. To view a full list of the workshops offered online this spring, and to register, visit: uwaterloo.ca/conflict-management
