Training Programme based on the book ‘The Mediator’s Toolkit: Formulating and Asking Questions for Successful Outcomes’
Author& Trainer: Gerry O’Sullivan
Dates: Four ½ day programme Online
Time: 21, 22, 28, 29 April 2021 (1.30pm – 5.30pm)
Cost: €300 inclusive of south west Gnó Skillnet funding.
Training Details
The success of mediation critically depends on the qualities of questions posed within it. The S Questions Model has been developed by Gerry OSullivan and is introduced in her book – ‘The Mediator’s Toolkit: Formulating and Asking Questions for Successful Outcomes’. This is the first work to shine a spotlight on mediation questions, per se. Refer to Appendix 1 for a description of this book and to Appendix 11 for endorsements of it.
Training Aims
The aim is that participants will learn how to formulate and ask incisive questions, drawn from a range of theoretical propositions, to introduce new information, clarify existing information and safely challenge and shift any entrenched thinking of parties in mediation. This is the key to reaching successful and sustainable mediation agreements.
Training Objectives
• To introduce, describe and explain the purpose and focus of the S Questions Model so that participants will be able to implement the theoretical learning in practice.
• To demonstrate the use of the S Questions Model through filmed roleplayed examples to embed the practical application of its learning.
• To radically sharpen, focus, and improve the questioning skills of the participants so that their work with mediation parties will affect a shift in parties’ thinking and approach to their conflict.
Requirements from Training Participants
To read and study the Practice Case Scenario from which they will be working during the training.There will also be a number of questions accompanying the scenario that will need reflection prior to the commencement of the training. The pre-training work will be emailed to participants.
Training Outcomes
Learners will:
• Learn the theory and purpose behind each S4: Shift Thinking question type from the S Questions Model – why it works, how to build the question and when to use the question
• Be able to apply their newly gained knowledge and theory in formulating and asking gentle, safe, penetrating and paradigm-shifting questions
• Know how the distortion, deletion and deficit of communicated information can hinder or block conflict solution
• Know and understand the physiological changes that occur when parties are in conflict and will be able to work constructively with a person who is in this physiological state
• Know how to use the S Questions Model in separateprivate mediation sessions, both before the first joint meeting and during caucus meetings, to facilitate parties:
– To untangle their thinking and gain clarity and focus around their issues
– To voice and vent negative emotions safely so they can start to think cognitively
– To become congruent in their communication
– To start the journey of a paradigm shift in their thinking before the joint session
• Know how to use the S Questions Model in joint mediation sessions:
– To create a safe space for both parties to share their thoughts and views
– To allow for the introduction of new and clarified information to the parties so that a paradigm shift in their thinking and approach can occur
– To create mutual understanding between parties
– To move parties to a state where they are cognitively able to identify solutions and agreements that are sustainable and that will meet the needs and underlying interests of both of them
Bookings
Bookings are closed for this event.
