Beyond basic training: A model for developing mediator competence

Mediators, ombuds, and other peace workers generally see their work as a calling. They pursue this work because of a desire to help others while promoting healing and reconciliation. While their work helps clients, it frequently results in deeply personal transformations, changing the ways in which they relate to and communicate with their family, colleagues, and community members. After hearing anecdotal reports of these transformations, I designed this study to learn more about how the work of conflict resolution affects its practitioners. Data for this study come from interviews and surveys of peace workers in various settings.

Section: Previous Research On the Impact Of Peace Work On Peace Wormentioning

confidence: 99%

Becoming the change we wish to see: The unexpected benefits of conflict resolution work

Raines

2018

“…Lang and Taylor's () book, The Making of a Mediator, was one of the first introductions of reflective practice tailored specifically for practitioners rather than academic readers. While not a central focus of the mediation literature, reflective practice is also referenced in various writings about enhancing practice and training (see, for example: Bronson, ; Friedman, ; Hardy, ; Hedeen et al, ; Kressel & Gadlin, ; Lang & Terry, ; Lieberman et al, ; McGuire & Inlow, ).…”

Section: Reflective Practicementioning

confidence: 99%

“…(Thomas Cowan in Schön, 1987, pp. 92-93) We can make the same distinction with mediators, who learn generally through prescriptive trainings and are therefore more trained than educated (Hedeen, Raines, & Barton, 2010;Lieberman, Foux-Levy, & Segal, 2005;Macfarlane & Mayer, 2005). Steps-driven training processes are used to teach mediators the mythical ideals of their practice, but they are subsequently set loose to find their own way in a mire of unexpected situations (Deborah Kolb & Associates, 1994, pp.…”

Section: Mediator Learningmentioning

confidence: 99%

Reflective practice and mediator learning: A current review

Almengor

2018

Mediator interest in reflective practice, a systematic process by which we think about or experience what we are doing in practice and why, is on the rise, evidenced by increased articles and professional organizations supporting its use. This growing interest signals its potential for integration into the mediation field, similar to its trajectory in more developed helping professions. By reviewing relevant literature and practice, this article defines and discusses reflective practice as it pertains to mediator learning and development, examines its strengths and challenges, and encourages needed research and practice in this area.

“…Questions are important not only within the mediation process but also to the growth of the mediator as a practitioner. Lieberman, Foux‐Levy, and Segal () found that an important aspect of professionalism is a reflective ability of mediators to ask questions about their own skills, role, and personal and professional growth.…”

Section: The Importance Of Questionsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Practice Note: Asking Better Questions

Barthel¹,

Fortson-Harwell

2016

Th is article examines ways that mediators can ask better questions by developing a line of inquiry that facilitates insight through movement within the stages of mediation. Well-designed questions can shift perspectives, promote understanding, off er opportunities, engage participation, and create possibilities. Better questions in mediation are asked with curiosity and emotional detachment, trustworthy, emotionally intelligent, balanced and open, asked with an awareness of learning styles, creative, future focused, and unifying.