Teaching The Dynamic Nature of Negotiation Processes

Simulations and case studies remain the most widely used pedagogical tools in negotiation courses, but they have limitations, such as providing limited and artificial information and requiring time constraints. The paper suggests an alternative pedagogy, the "Negotiation in the News" assignment, which requires students to follow a contemporary, unresolved negotiation as it unfolds in the press. This exercise provides an opportunity to address the limitations of simulations and case studies by asking students to analyze real-time negotiations, manage incomplete information, ponder social and ethical implications, and conduct original research. The "Negotiation in the News" assignment carries additional benefits, such as increasing student engagement and motivation, leading to increased critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.