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What is faculty mediation and why do we need it?
Faculty and administrators rarely assume their positions knowing how to frame and manage conflict. Leaders spend over 40% of their workday managing and resolving conflict. Conflict exists in many institutions of higher education. Texas A&M University is no exception. Many individuals would be hard pressed to deny that they have encountered some level of conflict in their personal and/or professional lives. A commonly held assumption and image are that conflict is a negative force. In fact, many people work to ignore or avoid conflict. However, research has shown that conflict can lead to positive outcomes when it is assessed and managed well (Algert, 2002).

What is conflict?
Conflict is defined as “a struggle or contest between people with opposing ideas, needs, values, beliefs, or goals. Conflict arises when the needs or interests of one person are perceived by that person as being denied to them by another. Conflict exists even if only one person perceives it” (Center for Change and Conflict Resolution, 2002, p. 2). The nature and origin of conflicts can be based on relationships, data, interests, values, and the environment. Conflict, if framed and managed well, can enhance understanding, foster creativity, and improve working relationships.

What are some strategies for managing conflict?
Mediation is a strategy for resolving conflict. The Office of the Dean of Faculties and Associate Provost conducts on-going basic mediation training sessions for faculty and administrators as well provide services for individuals who are interested in resolving conflict through mediation.

Are there Mediators on campus?
The individuals represented on this list reflect the first group of volunteer faculty and administrators who were trained as of Fall Semester 2003 as “Mediators.” These individuals completed a minimum of 40 hours of basic training for mediators recommended by the State Bar of Texas. Upon completion of these sessions, participants received a 40-hour Basic Mediation Training certificate and are now able to serve (or are now serving) as mediators. Training sessions were designed for active participation through the use of intensive case study scenarios, conflict management models, and mini lectures.

 
Jean Layne
Program Coordinator
Center for Teaching Excellence
(979) 862-4269
j-layne@tamu.edu

How can I be trained to be a Mediator?
If you are interested in learning more about mediation training please contact Dean of Faculties Office at 845-4274 or e-mail them at dof@tamu.edu.

page last revised May 21, 2008