Online Mediation

COVID-19 has forever changed the world we live in. Commerce and communication are now conducted online more than ever. Dispute resolution, in particular mediation, will likewise have to evolve, and SMC is increasingly moving to facilitate online mediations. In the face of this new reality, mediators will have to develop new skills and change some perspectives in order to thrive.

This course looks at the issues of efficiency, practicality, and enforcement that counsel and mediators should consider when using various technology-enhanced platforms for mediation. It provides the training needed to refine and adapt existing mediation skills to be compatible with the increasing incorporeal digital forums around us. During the course, participants will have the opportunity to interact closely with trainers, as well as access to online dispute resolution coaches reviewing their performance during the role-plays and training exercises.

This course is made of 4 parts that will be covered across 2 days.

Part 1 – Introduction to Online Mediation

This module will cover the relationship between Online Dispute Resolution and online mediation. You will learn to identify the advantages and disadvantages of online mediation and to know when it is appropriate for resolving disputes. You will also gain an understanding of the different online mediation platforms and the services they provide.

Part 2 – Online Mediator’s Skills and Knowledge

You will learn to recognise the ethical standards and core skills required for online mediation. There will be a review of general mediation skills taught in Singapore Mediation Centre’s courses and also the adaption of offline mediation techniques to the online environment.

Part 3 – Conducting Online Mediation

This module will guide you to prepare for online mediation and to manage its process. You will learn to develop time management in asynchronous online conversations and to manage mediation with largely synchronous conversations. Post-online mediation will also be covered. This is an interactive module with demonstrations.

Part 4 – Communication Skills for Online Mediators

You will learn to develop rapport and discourse in the online environment and to build awareness of party psychology and common online behavior. The module will also cover strategies on the appropriate procedures and techniques for communication in an online environment and the pitfalls when communicating online.