Aspirations, Possibilities, and Realities:

Expanding Principles, Practice, and Research in a Changing World

What are the big dreams for the field of conflict resolution? Have we even thought of all the possibilities? What are the practical successes and case studies and research that we can learn from - if we take the time? What are the real and perceived confines in our world that can hold us back, including but not limited to: geography, ethnicity, gender, culture, world view, fields of practice, assumptions, and habit?

ACR's Eighth Annual Conference will focus on high hopes and courageous goals for our profession and our world. The conference will look at untapped possibilities, how the newest techniques can be applied, and how the most challenging conflicts can be untangled. The conference will also explore many aspects of the here and now – the realities that tether us, the documentation of lessons previously learned, and the latest research proving the lasting benefits of conflict resolution.

The conference will challenge you to think creatively and to step out of your comfort zone. Consider how a session you would propose might advance the thinking in one or more areas described:

• To step out of your comfort zone and think outside the box: share ideas and experiences that are innovative or make connections in the field. In other words, what is working or what is different from the norm?
• To recognize when a dominant culture masks solutions: in both practice and research, what has challenged your assumptions and conclusions?
• Consider research areas that benefit the field: what are the connections between theory and practice? What are research findings and lessons for practitioners, and how can we work together to advance the field?