A mediator is not a licensed lawyer or legal representative. In the United States, there are no laws that require mediation training for mediators. Although there are no formal educational requirements for being a mediator, individuals in mediation training courses often complete a series of skills and knowledge assessments designed to identify potential mediators who are motivated to resolve conflicts.
Mediation Training is available in two distinct formats. There are several dissimilar forms of learning programs offered by training programs that educate participants on what they need to know, when they need to know it, and how they can best go about learning about it. Both verbal and written communication skills are learned in these programs, along with informational learning opportunities.
Traditional forms of formal mediation training are aimed at providing educational material and guidance to those who wish to become mediators. The purpose of formal mediation training is to ensure that individuals go into the profession with the necessary experience, education, and training. This program is usually given prior to getting into the field, but is also possible for those who choose to continue after receiving a formal education.
In this type of training, it is essential that the mediator's role is made clear. This helps potential mediators understand the services they will be providing, as well as the things they will be doing in the mediation session. It is also important to outline exactly what each party should do during the mediation session. In this manner, it is easier for the parties to anticipate each other and to perform as required.
The training courses in mediation may be conducted online or offline. Online learning is often given in the form of an audio or video tape, and the audio and video material can be viewed from the participant's home or place of work. Offline learning is more often than not given as a course of study that requires a visit to a classroom setting, and includes lectures, discussion boards, exams, and discussions with fellow students.
Educational programs are designed to help in two distinct areas. The first area of learning will include information on the nature of mediation, as well as how to go about obtaining certification in the field. It is also important to learn about insurance regulations, as this will determine whether or not the person in training has the necessary training to get proper liability coverage.
The second area of learning includes actual practical activities during the initial training period. This may consist of tasks that simulate the particular problems that meditators encounter, such as going over business contracts or procedures for liability coverage.
The depth of information that can be acquired during mediation training will depend on the length of the learning program. In some cases, one or two hours of instruction will suffice. However, in other cases, longer learning programs will be necessary, often lasting one day or longer.
Various forms of learning programs are offered through the American Association of Life and Medical Insurance Agents. This organization offers mediation training sessions that are conducted online or in one-on-one classroom settings. These sessions typically last one day, and are structured to guide the mediator through the steps required for successful mediation.
Learning about mediation is important because it is a very useful skill for those who are seeking to make a living in the medical profession. Some who teach mediation courses, such as those that provide trainees with insurance liability insurance knowledge, may become "dissuers" of a similar name. This is because they focus on providing individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to resolve health care disputes.
Learning about mediation is a large topic. Those who teach the various classes are often happy to take requests for information from others interested in learning more about how they learn this skill. If you have additional questions, please contact the Association directly.
