Fall 2026 - REM 643 G100
Public Engagement, Environmental Conflict and Dispute Resolution (5)
Class Number: 2939
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
Sep 9 – Dec 7, 2026: Mon, 2:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
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Instructor:
Tom Gunton
gunton@sfu.ca
1 778 782-3696
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
Theory and techniques of public engagement, negotiation, and conflict resolution in planning and public policy.
COURSE DETAILS:
Negotiation and mediation have become an essential part of resource and environmental management. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the theory and techniques of planning, public engagement, negotiation and mediation processes. The course begins with a review of negotiation theory within the context of differing world views about the role of individuals and groups in decision-making in democratic societies. This is followed by a review of techniques for the design and operation of public engagement and stakeholder decision-making processes. Case studies and negotiation simulation sessions are used to illustrate key concepts. The course is based in part on the theories and approaches taught at the Harvard Negotiation Program, including Harvard Negotiation Program simulation exercises for environmental dispute resolution. After completion of the course, students will have the skills required to design, manage, facilitate, and participate in public engagement and stakeholder negotiation and decision-making processes, including major public policy initiatives by different levels of government as well as international negotiation processes, such as the Framework Convention on Climate Change.
COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:
After completing this course students will be able to:
- understand strengths and weaknesses of different types of planning processes
- understand strengths and weaknesses of different types of public participation models
- design a planning process
- prepare terms of reference
- complete a conflict assessment analysis
- complete a negotiation preparation document
- facilitate a stakeholder process and meetings
- participate effectively as a stakeholder in negotiation
- prepare and implement a stakeholder planning agreement
- evaluate planning and stakeholder processes
- negotiate effectively
- develop and evaluate options for achieving consensus agreements
Grading
NOTES:
Students will be graded on their simulated negotiations and a modest-sized term paper. The full evaluation requirements will be “negotiated” with the instructor in the first or second class.
Registrar Notes:
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS
At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.
To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit:
- SFU’s Academic Integrity Policy: S10-01 Policy
- SFU’s Academic Integrity website, which includes helpful videos and tips in plain language: Academic Integrity at SFU
RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION
Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.