Factors Leading to the Success of Mediation in Schools

Abstract

The objectives of this study are 1) to survey instances of successful mediation in schools; and 2) to study the factors leading to success of mediation in schools. This qualitative research drew on target informants total 40 persons. Schools in the study were divided into two groups: one group with considerable experience in school mediation, and one group with less experience in school mediation. All data were collected through structured interviews. The collected data was analyzed by means of content analysis to discover and examine connections between theory and content.The research found that there are several aspects to success of mediation in schools. Factors leading to success of mediation in schools are 1) qualifications of mediators; 2) Parties to the conflict and related person; 3) building relationships and rapport; 4) Context; 5) resources; and 6) compilation and dissemination of a body of knowledge of mediation. This study suggests the following measures. 1) Focusing on processes that make people feel safe. 2) Construct a body of knowledge and training everyone in schools in this body of knowledge.3) More dissemination on mediation process  4) Build up more mediation teams. 5) Focus on conflict prevention by disseminating a culture of peace. 6) Agreement was accept from parties to the conflict 7)Systematically collect data and information about mediation.