Using mock mediations to develop storytelling and conflict resolution skills

Abstract

Storytelling plays a central role in human communication and in conflict. This activity can be used to teach students the importance of telling stories to better understand conflict or simply to practice storytelling. By engaging in mediations, students simulate the process of resolving conflict, practice storytelling, and improve their active listening skills.

Courses

Interpersonal Communication, Group Communication, Conflict Management, and Dispute Resolution. This activity is designed for courses that meet for a minimum of one hour due to the length of the proposed activity. Due to the time required for the mediation simulation, this activity should take place over two class periods, with the first class being used to review theory and assign roles. The second class period may be used for the mediation simulations. It can be adapted for a hybrid or online course.

Objectives

After completing this project, students are able to: (1) explain mediation as a method of conflict resolution; (2) develop skills required to navigate conflict successfully; (3) analyze and evaluate a conflict scenario; (4) engage in the storytelling and sensemaking process; (5) reflect upon their experiences with conflict, use of storytelling, and the skills required to engage meaningfully in conflict resolving; and (6) gain experience mediating a conflict or participating in conflict resolution.