Very interesting conversation on mediation and open space. As a practitioner of both, my exploration of Open Space facilitation has enhanced mediation, and vice versa. I appreciate Harrison's comments on upper management who refuse to get involved. Often during a mediation session it becomes clear that authority outside the room needs to be involved as the dispute is not about the people in the room. A session can be stopped while management is made aware, or can proceed with notes reflecting the issue in the mediated agreement. I know I've done my best work as a mediator when I hear pe ople ask what I was there for -- similar to Open Space facilitation. Philosophically it is a challenging question on whether to work with individuals when management prides itself on inactivity. I have often watched participants in a mediation become aware of themselves as individuals and as part of a collective. Seeing a change in themselves, and even a small amount of support for this change allows (as Kenoli states) "an expansion of perceptions and then possibilities can arise to meet them."
I have also worked with children from the 4th grade on up in peer mediation and watch their growth with interest. Yes, they face those educators who refuse to acknowlede their talent at solving their own conflict, critical analysis, and advocacy. At times I've wondered if I am only supporting them in setting themselves up to fail. There is, however, an unmistakable spark ...... Mediation, for me, has been a tool to provide a container where those in conflict can regain their dignity and work together. When I began to learn the process ― I initially paid more attention to the process than the people. As I quickly integrated those tools and made them mine, I find a very thin line between them. Open Space has definitely improved my mediation practice. I also study and integrate into my practice (read life) indigenous forms of restorative justice, which also seem like a bridge between mediation and Open Space. All members of a "community of harm" are invited into the circle and have input. Like mediation and Open Space there is a process to follow, and self-healing happens. The word that jumps out for me is "invitation". Mediation is most successful when participation is voluntary. In many mediation sessions, a senior manager or team leader has recommended mediation ― can this be considered voluntary? In my experience, there are those in mediation and facilitation who seem to apply a parental model ― the mediator as all-knowing parent. And, Harrison, as a parent of children approaching adulthood your comment "Think of one more thing NOT to do" is a great one --thanks. I keep reminding myself that the less I try to fix them, the more magnificent they are! Cheers Judi In the beginner's mind there are many possibilities; in the expert's mind, there are few. (Suzuki Roshi, 1970) Pono Consultants International Facilitation, Consultation Genuine Contact Facilitating the Flow of Inspired Collaboration (902) 435-0308
