Web-Based, Interactive, Interest-Based Negotiation Training for Managing Conflict in Isolated Environments: Opportunistic Study With an e-Survey

• DOI: 10.2196/42214
• Publication Date: 2023-04-19T16:35:44Z
• Authors: Jennifer Fleischer; Jeff Ayton; Maree Riley; Kim Binsted; Devin R Cowan; Abigail M Fellows; Jeff A Weiss; Jay C Buckey
• Keywords: Original Paper; R; Medicine; 16. Peace & justice

Effective negotiation in relationships is critical for successful long-duration space missions; inadequate conflict resolution has shown serious consequences. Less desirable forms of negotiation, including positional bargaining (eg, negotiating prices), can exacerbate conflicts. Traditional may work simple, low-stakes transactions but does not prioritize ongoing relationships. High-stakes situations warrant interest-based where parties with competing interests or goals collaborate a mutually beneficial agreement. This learnable must be practiced. Refresher training during conflicts important to prevent out-of-practice crew members from using less effective techniques. Training should self-directed and involve others because, on mission, the only other people available part conflict.We aimed develop test an interactive module teaching principles skills way that users find acceptable, valuable learning, enjoyable.Using web-based, interactive-media approach, we scripted, filmed, programmed module. In module, program mentor introduces "The Circle Value" approach highlights its key concepts through scenarios requiring make selections at specific decision points. Each selection prompts feedback designed reinforce point highlight particular technique. To evaluate sought populations experiencing isolation confinement (an opportunistic design). included 9 participants isolated, confined environments Australian Antarctic Program Hawai'i Space Exploration Analog Simulation Mars simulation, as well subset who self-identified being isolated COVID-19 pandemic. Feedback was collected (n=54) free-response answers questionnaires numerical scaling (0=strongly disagree 4=strongly agree) end module.In total, 51 54 (94%) found activity learning about management (identified by those selected either "somewhat agree" "strongly agree"), 100% environment (mode=3). 79% (128/162) participant responses indicated realistic (mode=3), 85% (23/27) Most felt this would particularly new team (46/54, all participants, mode 4; 7/9, 78% subset, 3) veterans.This offers self-directed, consistent training, which received users. Although data are limited due study design, could useful individuals anyone involved high-stakes negotiations sustaining essential.