LGS 165 - Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

3 credit hours - Three hours weekly; one term.
Focuses on the application of negotiation, mediation and arbitration as methods of resolving conflicts outside the courtroom. Students will learn the nature of conflict and the specific methods and techniques for resolving conflict. Students will examine the processes and skills involved, the training required and the employment opportunities available in the fast-growing field of alternative dispute resolution (ADR).

Note: Credit is not given for LGS 165 and also BPA 165 and HUS 165. Typically offered at MC; spring term.

Course Outcomes:

Describe the concept of conflict, identifying its sources
- Define conflict
- Explain how conflict is perceived
- Define miscommunication
- Identify how anger, mistrust, and dear relate to resolving conflict
- Explain parties’ responsibilities in conflict management
- Explain parties’ expectations and roles in conflict resolution
Evaluate alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms, including negotiation, mediation and arbitration
- Chart steps in negotiation process
- Explain mediation applications in community disputes; school mediation; and mediation of civil matters, family matters, administrative matters and labor relations
- Evaluate mediation preparation and methodologies
- Evaluate the community mediation model
- Evaluate the business mediation model
- Identify steps in mediation process
- Draft mediation settlement agreements
- Define arbitration
- Identify steps in the arbitration process
- Compare private v. court-annexed arbitration, binding v. nonbinding arbitration, mandatory v. voluntary arbitration
Define the parameters of confidentiality in the ADR process
- Identify confidentiality and ethical obligations in negotiations
- Identify confidentiality and ethical obligations in mediations
- Identify confidentiality and ethical obligations in arbitration
- Apply the Standard of Conduct for Mediators to real-life scenarios.
- Apply the Maryland Rules for Mediators to real-life scenarios
Apply each mechanism to resolve conflicts between individuals, consumers businesses and employers/employees;
- Compare and contrast negotiation, mediation and arbitration
- Debate the reasons for selecting one form of ADR over another
- Analyze problems and determine the most appropriate form of ADR
Demonstrate skills necessary in conducting negotiations, mediations and arbitrations
- Identify common personality traits required to successfully conduct negotiations, mediations and abitrations
- Determine each student’s individual personality strengths and weaknesses to see how each student would be successful in negotiation or in conducting mediations
- Identify characteristics of a good listener
- Identify effective communications techniques
- Identify effective interviewing techniques
Identify regional and online training programs where appropriate ADR credentials may be obtained
- Compare local, state and regional programs that conduct training programs for mediators
- Identify online training and credential programs for mediators
- Apply Standards of Conduct for Mediators and Maryland Rules as they relate to requirements for mediators
- Identify various local, state and regional credential programs for mediators
Explain the range of ADR employment opportunities available
- Identify local , state and regional job opportunities.
- Identify educational and training necessary for mediation and arbitration
- Identify the current state of the job market for mediators in Anne Arundel County and regionally