MCM-606: Restorative Justice

Restorative practices seek to repair the harm done to an individual or group of people by another individual or group of people. Restorative practices are designed to increase empathy and accountability on behalf of the wrong-doer, and restore, to the extent possible, the emotional and material losses of the
harmed parties by providing a range of opportunities for dialogue, negotiation and problem-solving.

Although restorative practices originated as an alternative approach to criminal justice, their applications are far-reaching and can bring about transformative change in protracted conflicts between groups and
cultures, international conflict, workplace conflict, family conflict, and any other conflict where one party has been harmed by the actions of another party.

This course provides an introduction and exposure to the principles of restorative practices and their application to the treatment of human suffering. This course will explore the needs and roles of key stakeholders in a conflict and examine the values and assumptions of the restorative practices movement, and introduce students to some of the current
programs at various levels.

This class is designed to build skills in knowledge, analysis, critical thinking, communication, and implementation of restorative practices and principles.

• Credit value: 3 (US standard) | 6 (ECTS standard)
• Indicative duration (full time): 3-4 weeks
• Indicative duration (part-time): 6-8 week
• Certificate: Yes

This course is based on standard EUCLID methodology. Students may refer to the following resources:

Academic Guidelines (HQ version)
Academic Guidelines (most recent version even if unofficial)
Student Orientation Guidelines (most recent version even if unofficial)
Zotero instructions for EUCLID students

At the end of this course, the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of restorative practice concepts, principles, and values.
• Recognize the ripple effect of trauma and emotional impact that can occur as a result of a violated relationship.
• Explain the concept, methods and potential uses of different restorative practices.
• Identify the skills used to conduct restorative mediations, conferences, and circles.
• Identify the personal, interpersonal, and organizational changes necessary for the implementation of restorative practices and the implications for policy and program development including stakeholder and professional roles.
• Communicate persuasively benefits and potential applications of restorative practices initiatives with appropriate stakeholders.
• Comparate RJ practices in select countries.

Course material is provided in PDF format. Textbooks include:

• Little Book of Restorative Justice (Pakaf)
• Restorative Justice – An Overview (Marshall)
• Handbook of Restorative Justice Programs (UN related)
• Practitioner’s Handbook (UK)
• Best Practices (New Zealand)