This skills course explores the dynamics, benefits, and constraints of mediation as a dispute resolution process. It examines mediation as a collaborative process of resolving conflict and considers legislative, ethical and practical limits on its use. Through discussions, simulations and case studies, the course focuses on the skills a mediator must have to facilitate a constructive resolution of conflict. The course will also examine the strategies and techniques used by advocates to accomplish beneficial outcomes in mediation. After initial skills training in the course, students may have the opportunity to act as mediators in actual disputes, such as those pending before small claims courts, municipal courts, and governmental agencies.

Course is graded High Pass, Pass/ D or Fail.