The Wayne Mediation Center 40-Hour Mediation Training is approved by the State Court
Administrative Office (SCAO). It fulfills the training requirement under MCR 2.411
for Court Roster Qualification. The course teaches the art of conflict management
through facilitative mediation.
We use a combination of interactive training techniques, lecture, role-play, and
video to help our trainees become effective mediators. We begin by helping our trainees
understand the nature of conflict and their own conflict management styles. Then,
we show them what “facilitative mediation” is, and how it fits into the spectrum
of alternative dispute resolution. After this foundation is set, we walk our trainees
through the mediation process – experientially - from pre-mediation considerations
to the conclusion of the mediation process; including how to write effective mediation
agreements.
Because we want our students to be skillful mediators, we show:
Proven communication and negotiation techniques
How conflict escalates and de-escalates
The importance of culture, gender, ethnic, and racial awareness/ sensitivity
Skills to maintain their neutrality and identify the potential for bias
Ethical considerations and their implications
Different outcomes for mediation
Finally, we provide our trainees with a safe learning environment, where they can
practice the skills we teach and explore the concepts we discuss. We want them to
experiment with the techniques they learn, so they can develop the self-confidence
that is necessary for them to be successful conflict