SCHOOL MEDIATION CONFLICT RESOLUTION

INTRODUCTION School mediation is a conflict resolution technique that trains school children and teachers as volunteer mediators. A mediator is a neutral party brought in to assist the disputants involved in an argument and help them reach a mutually acceptable resolution. Mediation schools offer a range of options. We are going to focus on peer mediation.

What is Peer Mediation? Peer mediation in schools is the resolution of disputes or conflicts, arguments or bullying, by the use of mediators from the students and teachers in that school. All of them previously trained. The solutions are worked out by those in conflict with the assistance of peer mediators. They have learnt to listen, not to make matters worse, and to help those in conflict understand their mutual interests.

CHARACTERISTICS 1.-It’s a pacific strategy 2.-People involved, both mediators and parties in conflict, act in a voluntary way. 3.-There is a series of predetermined phases that have to be developed. 4.- Communication and mutual understanding are essential. 5.-It’s an educational and learning experience positive for all the school community. 6.-Parties in conflict are the ones who bring out the solution to their issues, learning to deal with their behaviour. 7.- It’s a confidential process

PHASES 1.-PREMEDIATION There is a separate meeting with each part in conflict where they can express their feelings and relieve tensions. This is the first contact previous to mediation itself. The aim is to create a favourable climate for negotiation and dialogue.

2.-FIRST CONTACT Introductions are made, and the rules and conditions for the mediation are explained. It´s neccessary to clarify the facts through open-ended and closed questions, summarize and define the clonflict. 3.-TELL ME Each of the parties tells what has happened: where? , how?, when?.The mediators need to know the feelings, the intentions to solve the problem, the claims and possible solutions.

3.-PLACING THE CONFLICT The mediators analize the facts and the chances to reach an agreement highlighting the common aspects in both versions.They mustn´t judge and they need to be neutral. 4.-FINDING SOLUTIONS Brainstorming of possible solutions, analizing the situation from a new angle. Match voice tone, body language and key words. Don´t negotiate from a point of anger and be consistent.

5.-THE AGREEMENT Parties come to a reasonable agreement which must be signed. The focus must be on the behaviour rather than the person, stating their positive intention.

COMMUNICATION AND BODY LANGUAGE During the mediation process the commnunication skills play an important part. Here are some useful tips about it: The mediators must be aware of their own state, how they are standing, breathing and talking. If necessary breathe, step back, take a time out. They must avoid confrontation but be firm from the beginning. Address the behaviour rather than the person and give a future focus rather than dwell in the past.

Use “we” where possible , short sentences in logical sequencing at the point of real conflict As long as the body language is concerned, the mediators must be sat opposite the other part, in a straight but relaxed pose, with hands visible respecting the other´s vital space The mediators must be consistent, show interest by looking straight at the speaker, avoiding looking at any other part in the room and using a calm but firm voice tone. If possible get out of the conflict environment and move to another place.