Course Description

Many of our experiences with conflict are not positive. Conflict can destroy relationships. But conflict can be studied and understood, and it need not always proceed in destructive ways. This one-credit, pass-fail course will introduce students to the principles and practices of mediation, with an emphasis on inter-personal conflict. Through readings, role plays, and other exercises, students will develop competency in mediating a variety of issues, such as neighborhood or roommate disputes. Students will also examine the theoretical basis of mediation and develop a capacity to assess the strengths and weaknesses of different models of mediation.

Readings

F. Dukes, Manual of Facilitative Mediation, 2010. J. Folger & R.A.B. Bush, “Transformative Mediation and Third Party Intervention: Ten Hallmarks of A Transformative Approach to Practice,” Mediation Quarterly Vol. 13 No. 4, pp. 263-278 (Summer 1996). M. Dunn, “Mediation: One Alternative to Traditional Judicial Proceedings,” College Student Affairs Journal Vol. 15 No. 2, pp 40-48 (Spring 1996). V. S. Sisson & S. Todd, “Using Mediation in Response to Sexual Assault on College and University Campuses,” NASPA Journal Vol. 32 No. 4, pp 262-269 (Summer 1995).