Introduction to Mediation Programs

It is inevitable that students get into fights, arguments or disagreements and it's inevitable that they will affect school life in some way. But it isn't inevitable that these conflicts have to be unproductive and that they have to lead to unproductive consequences, like time away from teaching, increased stress and tension, constant attention for something they should have more ownership of, etc. In fact, imagine if these conflicts led to productive outcomes where students learned and grew from them? Imagine if they accepted conflict as a normal part of life and that they knew how to benefit from them?

Is there a better way to handle conflicts than fighting, ignoring it or giving in? We think so, and we're glad you are interested in teaching the skill of mediation.

Mediation is a voluntary process where a neutral third party helps the disputants (the people having a conflict come to a better understanding of each other, and reach their own solution to their problem.

For example, two students have been hassling each other for a month, calling each other names and spreading rumors. The situation has escalated to the point where it is disruptive for teachers and other students. A teacher refers them to the mediation coordinator who calls them both in and asks if they want to try mediation. They both agree and a meeting is scheduled.

Mediation brings two people together in a safe and structured environment, allows them to share more about themselves, and helps them stay focused on finding a solution that meets their needs.

Mediators do not take sides; they help the two people in conflict communicate effectively so each can be heard. They listen actively, ask questions, probe for underlying interests and then help the parties reach an agreement.

The mediation process is not like a court where a judge decides who is right or wrong, but more like a dialogue where the disputants come to their own agreement with the help of the mediators.

Mediation is a voluntary process. Both parties must want to resolve the problem. Mediators cannot force parties to mediate a dispute. Mediators help the disputants realize that it is in their best interest to resolve the dispute instead of avoiding it or having to face other consequences.

Mediators do not offer solutions. The best solutions are those that come from the parties themselves. Mediators can help the parties find productive solutions through using specific skills, like reality testing, brainstorming and storytelling. Mediators do not make decisions for disputants. Remember, changing conflict resolution styles of an entire school culture can take time – but it’s time well spent. Take the long-term view; then, watch the results.

Personalize these skills in your daily life.
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