This class relies heavily on “role play” exercises during which you will negotiate with one another. It is essential that everyone takes these role plays seriously. Your effort to act out the roles and negotiate seriously will have a direct impact on what you and others get out of the class. You are encouraged to experiment with new approaches, learn from your previous mistakes, and be creative during these exercises. Also, please share openly during the class debrief to nurture the best learning atmosphere for all. To enhance the quality of these exercises, there are several ground rules for the negotiation role-play exercises:

Do not disclose or show confidential information

You may verbally communicate whatever information you wish about your character, interests, etc., but you may not disclose or show confidential information (such as a role-play sheets or point values associated with settlement terms) to your partner before or during the negotiation. Similarly, students should refrain from viewing or otherwise trying to learn their partners’ confidential role information. Doing so vastly reduces the exercises’ value and constitutes academic dishonesty.

You are responsible for your choices

You are responsible for your choices about how to behave during practice negotiations, even though these are “only” role-play exercises. Note that you choose how to behave; the role does not choose for you. I encourage you to experiment with different styles and tactics, but the decision regarding how to behave ultimately rests with you.

Be prepared to embellish

Because it is impossible to provide you with all of the possible details that might be requested by your partners, you should be prepared to embellish as needed on the details of your role information. However, as suggested by the previous rule, you must also be prepared for the consequences of your chosen behavior. Extreme statements that contradict the facts of your role could be seen as unethical by classmates and may harm your reputation or ability to work effectively with them in subsequent exercises.

Keep it professional

No intimidation (e.g., violence, bullying) is permitted at any time, under any circumstance.

Debrief discussions

After each exercise we will discuss the outcomes reached, strategies used, strengths and weaknesses, and lessons learned. All students are expected to contribute to these discussions regardless of role.