It uses a variety of pedagogical methods including in-class and videotaped simulated negotiations and mediations. The course has an enrollment limit of twenty to ensure significant student faculty interaction. Students may also take Conflict Resolution Clinic. The clinic course offers students credit for serving as mediators in campus disputes, for reflecting on that experience, continuing their mediation skills development, and for other dispute resolution related project work. We believe an on campus program of this nature builds community by giving students the opportunity to resolve conflict for themselves and for others in productive and mutually satisfactory ways.
Students benefit in several ways.
They are made aware that the college takes seriously its responsibility to provide an educational environment as free as possible from unnecessary turmoil. Indeed, students may refer to themselves to the Center to mediate disputes which detract from their educational experience. Furthermore, because they are invited to train to mediate and hear cases, they are made a part of the campus community in a significant and mature role. Finally, they are acquainted with the educational and social benefits of community service as they explore mediation activities off-campus through the Center. The Center is also an important component of the College's retention efforts.