EDLD+5345+Wk+5+Reflection

Wk 5 Assignment, Part 4B / Mediator Report

When we began the mediation process, everyone was a little nervous as to what roles they would be playing. We went over the “ground rules” and briefed the actors on the topic that would be discussed. We were all reminded that we must act as professionals and any issues would have to be worked out.

We found that our “teachers” were better at handling the issues, avoided blaming each other for the problems and collaborated on how to best solve the dilemma for the students involved. They felt they were able to work things out easier if they weren’t constantly trying to battle it out as to who’s fault it was.

I found the experience of mediation could be used effectively in a variety of situations. Going thru all the steps helped show that if everyone steps back and re-evaluates the situation, the could come to a more objective decision. Since I am not a classroom teacher, I could look “outside of the box” to see other effective avenues to pursue.