The Art of Conflict Transformation

Transform winner-take-all attitudes into win-win opportunities

Retreat, concede, or fight. Many of us are taught that those are the only options in a conflict. But when approached openly and with curiosity, conflict can motivate us to change and grow, deepening our relationships with others. This two-day Continuing Studies workshop focuses on shifting our either-or ways of thinking into attitudes of curiosity and openness that create win-win solutions.

Here's what you'll learn:

• How your history with conflict impacts your current responses
• The differences between win/lose and win/win responses to conflict
• How to check conflict-escalating assumptions
• Centering, a way to be present in the moment
• Distinguishing between positions and needs
• Enhancing your ability to listen and use inquiry while in conflict
• Finding common ground and achieving win-win solutions

Instructor Kathy Germann has facilitated training on a broad range of human-relations issues since 1982. She has taught on three college campuses, been a manager in two nonprofits, and served as an instructor for UW-Madison Continuing Studies for 20 years. Kathy brings a deep sense of passion and a healthy sense of humor to her work.

Instructor Denise Jess has facilitated trainings on a wide range of human relations issues since the mid-1980s, including teaching in a learner-centered classroom for 11 years. She is committed to creating inclusive environments where all voices are respected.

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Detailed information

Schedule: Check-in begins at 8 am; 8:30 am-4:30 pm (workshop)

Location: The Pyle Center, 702 Langdon St., Madison, WI (map). Parking information will be sent with your enrollment confirmation. The building is accessible to people with disabilities.

Fees: $290 (Includes instruction, materials, refreshment breaks, CEUs, and a nonrefundable administration fee of $20) Lunch is on your own.

Registration deadlines: We ask that you register no later than one week before the program. Registration is limited to 25.

Cancellation policy: If you are unable to attend or arrange for a substitute, you may obtain a refund minus the $20 administrative fee by contacting our registration department at least 3 business days prior to the program. If you cancel 3 business days or less before the program, or do not attend, you are responsible for the entire fee. To cancel or arrange for a substitute, please call 800-725-9692.

Accommodations: Please make your own travel and lodging arrangements. Maps and information on lodging and parking are sent with your registration confirmation. Information about overnight accommodations can also be found on our general information page.

Parking: You receive parking information with your enrollment confirmation. Day-long parking permits are available for enrollees on a first-come, first-served basis. Parking ramps and surface lots are located within a few blocks of the Pyle Center.

Additional parking and transportation information (including parking maps) can be found in the "Plan Your Visit" section of the UW-Madison Visitor Information & Programs website.

Approved Hours/Continuing Education Credits: 1.4 CEU = 14 hours of professional continuing education for the program.

Social Workers: The University of Wisconsin-Madison, Professional Development and Applied Studies, (PDAS), (provider number #1042) is approved as a provider for social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB), (800-225-6880) through the Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. PDAS maintains responsibility for the program.
WI, IA, MI and MN Boards of Social Work recognize ACE programs.
IL Registered Social Worker Continuing Education Sponsor #159.000243.
Counselors: PDAS is recognized by the National Board for Certified Counselors to offer continuing education for National Certified Counselors. PDAS adheres to NBCC continuing education guidelines (Provider #5990).
WI Psychologists, and Marriage and Family Therapists: Qualifies as an accredited university continuing education course relevant to professional practice.
WI Substance Abuse Counselors: Qualifies as a continuing education course consisting of relevant subject matter taught by qualified presenters.
Educators: This program may qualify towards your Professional Development Plans (PDPs).
Other professions: Completion of each program qualifies for continuing education hours. Contact your own board or organization for specific continuing education requirements.

For more information contact: Barry Orton, call 608-262-2394; email: bmorton@wisc.edu

Registration options:

By phone: Call 608-262-7942 or 800-725-9692.

By mail: Print, complete and mail the Continuing Studies registration form.

Online registration: Secure online registration is available for this program.