Let's mediate - Training course on Alternative Dispute Resolution in EVS/ESC

The training course is targeted for people actively involved in international volunteering projects (especially for EVS/ESC coordinators) who work with volunteers on a daily basis and who already have some experience in non-formal education and experiential learning. The programme is designed for people who are ready to learn, explore, discover and develop their skills, competences and know-how and will be able to use it later in their jobs and communities.

TC is a follow up of the project “First ADR Kit” (http://firstadrkit.org) and it aims at is implementing ADR with special focus on mediation as a conflict resolution tool in EVS/ESC. Mediation is a way of solving conflicts amicably with a support of third, neutral person, who facilitates the parties of the dispute through all stages of conflict, supporting them in dealing with emotions, identifying their interests, creating options and finally – reaching a common ground. So far known mostly in commercial disputes – mediation gains recognition as one of the most efficient and constructive way of solving conflicts.

The course is based on non-formal education methodology and will have a form of practical exercises and simulations. Participants will have a chance to understand: how active listening works, how to practice the loop of understanding, how to paraphrase, summarise and emphasise, how to be creative in conflict resolution process, what to do in order to find common grounds etc. The programme will be built on actual knowledge and experiences of the participants focused on international volunteering features. It will also allow for strong intercultural aspect in a form of simulation exercises. Simulations will be especially designed for the course and will allow the participants to experience the conflict “inside-out” both as mediators and the parties to the dispute.

Detailed programme will be sent in November. It will be adjusted to needs and expectations of participants.

Objectives of the training course:

• To explore the topic of multiculturalism and intercultural dialogue;

• To learn about origins of different types of conflicts and possible methods of solving them;

• To promote and explain Alternative Dispute Resolutions with special emphasis on mediation

• To teach in practice skills relevant to effective negotiation and mediation;

• To use mediation in solving conflicts during EVS projects in partner organisations;

• To increase the quality of EVS projects in partner organisations;

• To discuss about challenges and difficulties connected with EVS/ESC and future of international

volunteering.

• To create a field for further cooperation and development of new volunteering projects;

• To share the results of First ADR Kit strategic partnership devoted to mediation in youth education