Assessing agricultural communications students’ conflict modes before entering the workforce

As students at Oklahoma State University are preparing to graduate and enter the workforce, many do not understand how they handle conflict or what their dominant conflict mode is. With 62 participants enrolled in a agricultural communications professional development course, the research explores three key areas: prevalent conflict styles, relevant student demographics, and potential influences from upbringing. Results indicate that accommodating and avoiding are the most common styles, aligning with trends typically seen in entry-level professionals. Over half the students misidentified their own dominant styles, suggesting a gap in understanding how they handle conflict. Demographic and upbringing data show that many students came from rural areas and households where conflict was often avoided or addressed only when necessary. These findings underline the importance of conflict style awareness in preparing students for professional environments that require assertive and collaborative communication. The study recommends integrating conflict resolution training permanently into curriculum and highlights the potential of the TKI as a tool for enhancing student self-awareness and workplace readiness.