Get on the same side. Explain to students that they want the same things; they want the conflict solved and the mutual goal met. Discuss both goals. Write them down. Have students look at each other and say an affirmation, such as "I disagree with you, but I realize we want the same things."
Allow each student to discuss their view of the conflict. Instruct the other student how to be an active listener while their peer is speaking. This means making eye contact, keeping body language non-confrontational, listening closely rather than waiting for their turn to speak and summarizing what the speaker said in the listener's own words.
Help the students come to a mutually beneficial compromise. If the compromise is not immediately accepted, ask the students if they can put their desires to the side to work together to accomplish a common goal. Remind them of the importance of the goal. Have the students write out the compromise and instruct each person to sign.
Brainstorm ways of accomplishing the goal. Have students discuss the resources at their disposal, as well as their individual skills and talents. Determine each person's duties and how their performance will contribute to achieving (or not achieving) their goals. Compare schedules to determine timelines and future meetings. Exchange contact information. Make sure students understand the importance of being accountable to their peers, responsible and focused on completing the task.
Check in. Provide a space for students to hold future discussions about their progress. Encourage them to talk openly and honestly about whether they need additional help. Encourage students to look to each other for creative solutions and fresh perspectives. Tell students to give themselves a false deadline where everyone brings a finished project together to determine if it meets their standards. This helps students realistically understand where they are in the process and tweak or adjust whatever needs reworking.