Post on 30-Apr-2020
Peer Mediation “Students helping students”
What is Peer Mediation?
Peer Mediation is a communication process in which the individuals
with a problem work together, assisted by a neutral third party, to
solve the problem.
Peer Mediation: Vocabulary
Mediate: To intervene between two or more disputing parties in order to bring about an agreement
Disputant: One engaged in an argument or conflict
Ground Rule: One of the several basic rules for conducting peer mediation, spelled out to the disputants at the beginning of the session.
Peer Mediation
Mediation Process: Six Step Model
Step #1:
Agree to mediation (Request Form)
Make introductions
State ground rules
Step #2:
Gather information
Ask each person to explain what happened
Ask each person whether he or she wants to add anything
Mediation Process: Six Step Model
Step #3:
Focus on common interests
Determine and summarize shared interests
Step #4:
Create options
Brainstorm solutions and ask disputants what can be done to resolve the problem
Peer Mediation
Mediation Process: Six Step Model
Step #5:
Evaluate the options
Ask each person what could be done to resolve the problem
Step #6:
Create an agreement
Write up an agreement and have disputants sign it
Shake hands
Peer Mediation
Example of Peer Mediation Process:
While watching the video:
• High school setting
• Watch how Sarah explains the student mediation process at her school
• Peer Mediation Agreement Form: Documentation File
Peer Mediation: A Process of Respect
Four Basic Principles:
1. Neutrality
2. Self-determination
3. Confidentiality
4. Voluntary Consent
Peer Mediation
Peer Mediation Program
Most widely used conflict resolution program in schools
Conflict Resolution Tool
Instead of disciplinary actions:
Suspension & Detention
Time-consuming role
“Our school is a place where we can talk about our differences. We don’t have to
fight to get justice.”
Peer Mediation attacks the problem not the person.
Who are the mediators?
• Students (Sarah-Video)
• 2-4 day training
• Students can begin working with a peer mediation program as early as the 3rd grade
• Develop skills:
• Listening to both sides
• Gaining trust
• Identifying positions, issues, and interests
• Building communication between parties
• Dealing with emotions
• Problem solving skills
• Using settlement techniques
What kinds of disputes can be mediated?
Misunderstandings between students
Teasing or name-calling
Relationship arguments
Accusations of theft or destruction of property
Rumors and/or fights between groups
Lauren: Ever since you wouldn’t let your friend Melissa copy the answers to your math test, Melissa has been writing threatening e-mails to you and spreading rumors about you to your friends. It’s been two weeks and you’re tired of putting up with it. You start spreading rumors about her and pranking her cell phone. The next day, Melissa is waiting for you after school, ready to fight. Question: Instead of retaliating, what do you think Lauren should have done to resolve the problem? Peer Mediation: As a group discuss the Advantages/Disadvantages of Peer Mediation. Have you ever witnessed/experienced Peer Mediation during grade school?
Scenario
Peer Mediation
Advantages:
Resolves student conflicts
Teaches students essential life skills
Motivates students to resolve their conflicts collaboratively
Increases self-esteem
Improves school climate
Meets needs of both students and educators
Disadvantages:
Privacy
Student cooperation
Students are embarrassed
Process of training peer mediators