THE UNAVOIDABLE PART: CONFLICT MANAGEMENT IN EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

Abstract

Conflict is an unavoidable part of every institution. Educational institutions are saddled with conflicts among employees and sometimes with management which invariably influence their overall output. At the workplace, it is important that measures are put in place to ensure employees are comfortable and happy in their work environment to function well. The purpose of this study is to explore how unresolved conflicts between employees in educational institutions affect productivity. This study identifies some causes of conflict in colleges of Education and suggests possible ways of effectively resolve them for improved sustainable productivity. 22 respondents participated in the study. A qualitative research method was used, whereby semi structured interviews were conducted to collect data for analysis. The participants were asked certain question to determine the causes of conflict, and how they manage it. In analyzing the results, the responses were grouped into themes and then examined according to the questions asked during the interview.  Based on the results, it was determined that a common cause of conflict in educational institutions is poor communication. With regards to managing conflict, it was determined that people prefer to talk to the other party and would only involve a third person if they are not able to solve the issue. Another reason they would also involve a third person is if the person is a colleague or an employer they are not friendly with. It was recommended that superiors in educational institutions should be approachable, and should also provide a formal complaint process that employees can use when they have any issues.