Dissertation Proposal Defense: Rochelle Arms - Mediators in the Making: How Mediators Learn in Action

Dissertation Proposal Defense: Rochelle Arms

Mediators in the Making: How Mediators Learn in Action

May 18th, 2016
2:00pm- 4:00pm
Metropolitan Bldg. Rm 5000

Committee Members:

Dr. Susan Allen, Committee Chair, S-CAR
Dr. Arthur Romano, S-CAR
Dr. Betsy DeMulder, College of Education and Human Development
Dr. Jenice View, College of Education and Human Development

The proposed study will explore how mediators interpret, uphold, adapt, or reject the lessons they receive in their basic mediation skills training, the level of awareness with which they do so, and the role of reflective practice in supporting their ongoing learning process. I focus on mediation training as a frame of reference for espoused best practices (the mythical ideals of what the practice should look like), though over time mediators utilize many frames of reference for what they consider best practice. Through a critical reflective practice approach inspired by action research methodology, the study will track the evolution of 8 - 10 community mediation trainees as they develop in their practice over a period of nine months. Ultimately, the goal of this project is to provide empirically grounded recommendations for training and professional development of mediators, enabling them to evolve the field in more meaningful ways.