During the presentation the presenter would pause and ask for feedback, ask questions and invite discussion. At a couple of parts we were invited to discuss things in a small group (those at the same table) and see what our thoughts were on how things were "meshing" thus far with our ideas and experiences. Many at the table had been in the position of manager, facilitator or been asked to "intervene" in a hot situation (but not quite as a mediator). The presenter was a mediator and conflict resolver, in particular as someone that specializes in workplace disputes. As someone that is working on a master's in Conflict and Dispute resolution, I was shocked to hear some of the commentary regarding mediation and facilitate dialogue, and that it was seen as manipulative and deceitful. My view of mediation is that of helpful, and providing some of the tools that you have learned to others in order to help others resolve an issue that they would otherwise be unable to resolve themselves. While I don't, and didn't, agree with some of the commentary, I just listened to see how people view the field that I am so interested to enter. It was an enlightening perspective, and informs me that I need to lay some ground work in the beginning so that people know what mediation is, and how it can help. The only way to change the view of others is to show another way, and that can only be done by those that take the time to listen and learn, so that you might help those that you are specifically asked to help. Otherwise, we will be ill equipped to put out any fires.
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Presentation to Learn
The second week of the internship, while still courting some of the people that I was hoping to work with, I was invited to attend a presentation of one of the potential internship opportunities. I was invited to attend a group of members for an Organization Change and Development for the Oregon/Portland area. As I walked in, I was definitely the youngest member in attendance (by 5-10 years minimum). I went and met the presenter, and then found a seat. After letting my wife know that I had safely made it to the location, I sat back and enjoyed the presentation.
During the presentation the presenter would pause and ask for feedback, ask questions and invite discussion. At a couple of parts we were invited to discuss things in a small group (those at the same table) and see what our thoughts were on how things were "meshing" thus far with our ideas and experiences. Many at the table had been in the position of manager, facilitator or been asked to "intervene" in a hot situation (but not quite as a mediator). The presenter was a mediator and conflict resolver, in particular as someone that specializes in workplace disputes. As someone that is working on a master's in Conflict and Dispute resolution, I was shocked to hear some of the commentary regarding mediation and facilitate dialogue, and that it was seen as manipulative and deceitful. My view of mediation is that of helpful, and providing some of the tools that you have learned to others in order to help others resolve an issue that they would otherwise be unable to resolve themselves. While I don't, and didn't, agree with some of the commentary, I just listened to see how people view the field that I am so interested to enter. It was an enlightening perspective, and informs me that I need to lay some ground work in the beginning so that people know what mediation is, and how it can help. The only way to change the view of others is to show another way, and that can only be done by those that take the time to listen and learn, so that you might help those that you are specifically asked to help. Otherwise, we will be ill equipped to put out any fires.
During the presentation the presenter would pause and ask for feedback, ask questions and invite discussion. At a couple of parts we were invited to discuss things in a small group (those at the same table) and see what our thoughts were on how things were "meshing" thus far with our ideas and experiences. Many at the table had been in the position of manager, facilitator or been asked to "intervene" in a hot situation (but not quite as a mediator). The presenter was a mediator and conflict resolver, in particular as someone that specializes in workplace disputes. As someone that is working on a master's in Conflict and Dispute resolution, I was shocked to hear some of the commentary regarding mediation and facilitate dialogue, and that it was seen as manipulative and deceitful. My view of mediation is that of helpful, and providing some of the tools that you have learned to others in order to help others resolve an issue that they would otherwise be unable to resolve themselves. While I don't, and didn't, agree with some of the commentary, I just listened to see how people view the field that I am so interested to enter. It was an enlightening perspective, and informs me that I need to lay some ground work in the beginning so that people know what mediation is, and how it can help. The only way to change the view of others is to show another way, and that can only be done by those that take the time to listen and learn, so that you might help those that you are specifically asked to help. Otherwise, we will be ill equipped to put out any fires.
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