Decision-making and conflict resolutions skills enhanced by virtual facilitation: A qualitative study

Facilitation among engineers continues to focus on the enhancement of technical knowledge. Very little effort addresses non-technical skills. This research explores the phenomenon behind the use of the facilitation framework of Chris Argyrols and Marshall Rosenberg in a virtual facilitation simulation tool. Currently, the military uses simulation technology to practice various exercises such as flight maneuvering. The engineering arenas use of technology whether internally or externally can be an innovative educational tool. The focus of such a tool would enhance the quality of decision-making and conflict resolution. This study investigates whether the use of virtual facilitation during a simulation leads to enhanced decision-making and conflict resolution skills. This research focuses on the use of the “Ugly Orange”, a commonly used negotiation simulation, with interventions based on the framework of Argyris and/or Rosenberg interjected into the communication process. This research extends existing knowledge on the effects of virtual facilitator to enhance decision-making and conflict resolution skills, as well as conditions to enhance participants´ openness and interdependence.