Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) examines the theory and application of procedures for the resolution of disputes as an alternative to a judicial process. In this unit you will examine ADR methods such as negotiation, mediation, conciliation and arbitration and theoretical developments such as Collaborative Law. You will develop basic skills in listening, negotiation and mediation. You will also explore how to design ADR approaches suitable to help resolve client disputes, quickly, at minimal cost and consistent with the principles of access to justice.

Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.

Feedback from Student unit evaluation

Due date for the first (negotiation) assessment was pushed back by one week to week 4 (instead of week 3) to provide students more time to find partners

Due dates should not be moved and students should be constantly reminded starting in week 1 about the time-sensitive nature of the unit assessments and that no extensions will be permitted on account of a failure to find a partner.

Feedback from Student unit evaluation

Very content heavy

Review whether some topics especially relating to non-mainstream dispute resolution schemes can be removed and the topics covered reduced in scope.

Feedback from Student unit evaluations

Interactive tutorials and interesting discussions

Real-life, problem-based scenarious should continue to be used as they engage students and stimulate discussions.

Feedback from Student unit evaluation

Usefulness of negotiation assessment unclear

Create a video and more notes that explain what the negotiation assessment is about, what it seeks to assess, and how useful it is in legal practice. More resources about negotiation skills and strategies should be added on Moodle that draw attention to how students can negotiation more effectively.