Mastering Mediation Education

Book excerpt: Nowadays, mediation education is implemented at all levels in society: from kindergarten and primary school education ('peer mediation') to university and post-graduate master programs. The length and intensity varies tremendously: from two day courses, to two year programs. In this respect, mediation is comparable to sports or the fine arts. One can practice this intuitively, and with basic training at grass roots level, further develop this at the professional level, and become a master in mediation. On the professional level, mediation is a respected part of the judicial process and the mediator is recognized as a full partner in the process of conflict management and dispute resolution - an expert with specific knowledge and skills to assist as a third party. To achieve this, a high quality education in mediation is essential. Otherwise, mediation will be seen, particularly by other professions and professionals, as a 'soft skills' and a secondary service. At the professional level, how should an education be developed? What roles should universities play in mediation education? What are the trends and what are the necessary steps to take, to further develop this young profession into evidence-based practices? These questions formed the theme of an international symposium in Utrecht - "Mastering Mediation Education" - organized by the Universities of Utrecht and Leuven. The mediation topics discussed at the symposium are presented in this book.