Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2025 - PLAN 443 D100

Public Engagement, Mediation and Conflict Resolution in Planning (4)

Class Number: 2982

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 12 – Aug 8, 2025: Mon, 1:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    PLAN 100 or PLAN 200; and 60 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduces students to the theory and techniques of public engagement, negotiation and mediation processes in planning. Reviews existing planning and negotiation theory as well as alternative methods for public engagement in planning. Case studies and negotiation simulation sessions are used to illustrate key concepts based on theories and approaches taught at the Harvard Negotiation Program. Students acquire the skills to design, manage, and facilitate public engagement processes, engage in stakeholder negotiation, and resolve public disputes in planning and public policy.

COURSE DETAILS:

Public engagement, negotiation and mediation have become an essential part of planning.  The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the theory and techniques of public engagement, negotiation and mediation processes.  The course will begin with a review of planning and negotiation theory.  This will be followed by a review of techniques for the design and operation of stakeholder decision-making processes.  Case studies and negotiation simulation sessions will be used to illustrate key concepts.  The course will utilize 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 processes.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

After completing this course students will be able to:

  1. understand strengths and weaknesses of different types of planning processes
  2. understand strengths and weaknesses of different types of public participation models
  3. design a planning process
  4. prepare terms of reference
  5. complete a conflict assessment analysis
  6. complete a negotiation preparation document
  7. facilitate a stakeholder process and meetings
  8. participate effectively as a stakeholder in negotiation
  9. prepare and implement a planning agreement
  10. evaluate public engagement and stakeholder processes
  11. negotiate to achieve consensus agreements
  12. develop and evaluate options for achieving consensus agreement

Grading

  • Case Study Presentation 25%
  • Negotiation Simulation 1 25%
  • Negotiation Simulation 2 25%
  • Negotiation Simulation 3 25%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Course reading list will be provided with detailed syllabus. Readings will be avalaible online.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

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.