Peer Mediation T 4 T

Conflict is an inescapable and essential part of life, diversity and change. Successful conflict resolution is essentially a problem-solving exercise, which involves achieving win-win situations rather that the win-lose outcome that competition and fighting tends to achieve. Discuss words that represent conflict – many will have negative connotations. However, conflict is also about creating change & opportunities. Conflict can be exciting, creative and satisfying when conflict is resolved taking into account each persons views, needs and feelings.

What is Mediation? A structured process in which a neutral third party assists voluntary participants in resolving their conflicts. Stacey & Robinson, 1997, Let’s Mediate.

Mediation is In peer mediation, students talk face to face in a safe and supportive discussion led by trained peer mediators. The process is organized, structured, and systematic and aimed at producing positive actions and outcomes. Peer Mediation does not take the place of normal consequences when inappropriate behavior has occurred.

Mediation is NOT: About deciding who’s ‘wrong’ or ‘right’ About apportioning blame About focusing on the past any more than is necessary to help pupils work out a way forward About offering advice. Mediators support pupils to work out a way forward which is mutually acceptable

“If you want to make peace, you don't talk to your friends       “If you want to make peace, you don't talk to your friends. You talk to your enemies.”   Mother Teresa

What situation can be mediated? Arguments Teasing Harassment Name-calling Rumours Conflict with peers Verbal exchanges Misunderstandings Horseplay

Which situations should not be mediated? Issues that involve sensitive information Issues that involve the police When the dispute involves an adult When one or both parties have a history with bullying or violence Racist Issues

Mediation helps pupils to Define the problem from their point of view Identify and express their feelings and needs Hear the feelings and needs of the other person Acknowledge each person’s viewpoint Create solutions Agree a course of action Evaluate progress Pupils must agree to abide by the rules for disputants

What are the benefits of Peer Mediation for the school? Peer Mediation promotes a positive classroom environment and school culture. Peer Mediation assists disputants and mediators to learn more effective conflict resolution strategies for future situations.  Peer Mediation eases time pressure on staff by allowing some issues to be resolved by Mediators.

What are the benefits of Peer Mediation for the school? Gives teachers time to teach, and students time to learn. Can reduce violence, vandalism, and absenteeism as well as suspensions or punitive actions

Peer Mediators can also Help train other peer mediators Help with Assemblies Help in promoting the peer mediation programme

How does it work? For peer mediation to work effectively, at least one party involved in the conflict must be willing to make contact with the peer mediation facilitator Parties may be referred by outside person After process is explained, both parties must agree to take part Procedures must be put into place for referring situations for mediations. And for mediations to be successful, participation in the mediation process must be voluntary. Staff may offer mediation to students as a way of working out differences, but it will not be nearly as successful if parties are forced to participate.

Training peer mediators Training in interpersonal relationships active listening skills, facilitating discussions, step by step process Collaborative style explore alternatives, identify issues think about consequences and how they will affect the relationship Of course, before students may be allowed to mediate for other students, they must be trained by skilled and caring adults. They must be taught the skills needed to guide their peers through the mediation process. Effective mediation programs can be found among all ages of students from elementary to high school.

Steps to peer mediation Referral Meet the first person Meet the second person Carry out the Peer Mediation and Work together for an agreement Follow-up Of course, before students may be allowed to mediate for other students, they must be trained by skilled and caring adults. They must be taught the skills needed to guide their peers through the mediation process. Effective mediation programs can be found among all ages of students from elementary to high school.

Signposts to a Peer Mediation Set the stage Hear the story Share feelings Seek solutions Agreement This is a common outline in Scotland