Win, Lose, or Collaborate: Revisiting Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Handling Modes Using Competition Based Learning

Games promote pathways to experiential learning in the classroom. This simple card game aims to help students understand the importance of collaboration through the lens of the Thomas-Kilmann Five Conflict Handling Modes model. Using a 15-minute teamwork related game, students are challenged to work through interteam and intrateam conflict while experiencing the five conflict modes cited in Thomas and Kilmann’s seminal work on conflict management. Classroom discussion and interpersonal reflection is explored following the teamwork exercise.