LL300: Advanced Negotiation and Mediation

This course introduces students to a range of issues surrounding the dynamics of disputes and to the advanced models of negotiation and mediation designed to aid in their resolution. The course also considers adjudicative forms of dispute resolution (litigation and arbitration), and discusses how these relate to mediation and negotiation.

The focus of the course, which draws on insights from a range of academic disciplines including law, anthropology, psychology and economics, is on contemporary dispute resolution theories across a range of settings, including community, commercial, and retail/consumer. An important feature of the course is the way in which it examines the interface between theory and practice. The course aims to assist students in using theories of dispute resolution to understand and address contemporary debates as to how various methods should be used to settle claims in different contexts.

The course will cover the dynamics of disputes, the forms of dispute resolution available - litigation, arbitration, negotiated settlement, and mediation - and how to determine the best choice of resolution system for your client.

Practical case studies, across a range of different sectors and legal practice areas, will help students to practice, apply, and consolidate their learning of theory. The course will also help students to evaluate dispute resolution mechanisms from a public policy perspective, and so will appeal to students working across a wide range of areas.

Prerequisites: An introductory law course.

Level: 300 level. Read more information on levels in our FAQs

Fees: Please see Fees and payments

Lectures: 36 hours

Classes: 18 hours

Assessment: One examination and one essay

Typical credit: 3-4 credits (US) 7.5 ECTS points (EU)

Please note: Assessment is optional but may be required for credit by your home institution. Your home institution will be able to advise how you can meet their credit requirements. For more information on exams and credit, read Teaching and assessment

This course will help students gain a better understanding of the theories, developments and practical applications of alternative dispute resolution and so will appeal to students working across a wide range of areas.

• Critically evaluate ongoing developments in academic and policy debates relating to alternative dispute resolution

• Discuss the socio-legal dynamics of disputes and the reasons why people embark on and pursue grievances

• Understand the distinctions between different types of dispute resolution processes

• Appreciate how negotiation and mediation theories offer insights into the analysis and resolution of disputes

• Explain how negotiation and mediation theories can be used in practical situations

• Demonstrate improved personal skills through exposure to the everyday dynamics of dispute resolution

The design of this course is guided by LSE faculty, as well as industry experts, who will share their experience and in-depth knowledge with you throughout the course.