ARLT 885 - Mediation and Conflict Management

3 credits

This course will provide a theoretical and practical foundation in the conduct of mediation.  It will begin by placing mediation in the context of the spectrum of alternative dispute resolution processes and examining the various ways in which mediation is utilized in contemporary society.  The course will then give students exposure to both theory and practical experience in the various stages of mediation – i.e., preparation for mediation, opening statements, first joint sessions, separate caucuses, subsequent joint and separate sessions, guiding the parties to agreement, and memorializing the agreement.  As the various stages of mediation are covered, students will also learn core competencies for mediators such as active listening, conflict management, idea generation, consensus decision making, and facilitation and group dynamics.  The course will conclude with exposure to the model of interest based problem solving, an integrative, multi-step process that is applicable to many mediation and joint problem solving contexts.  The many simulation exercises in the course will focus on individual and collective disputes.  This course will be offered in a “hybrid” format, with both online and face-to-face meetings.  The distance learning component will include both synchronous and non-synchronous sessions.  Students will come together twice during the semester for face-to-face meetings in order to engage in role-playing and other exercises.