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TOT 146
WEEK 146- BOARD WRITING
One of the objectives of Board writing is to reinforce what is already stated . Board writing is used as a tool at different levels by trainers to meet different objectives.
Board writing is also used to bring perfect synergy between practical and theory. Making use of the advanced technology instead of using the black or white board, slides are also being used.
Effective use:
One of the trainees is asked to give the material inputs on the previous day to prepare a role play , which has to be based on the actual mediated case where either no settlement is arrived at or where there is an impasse.
Based on the inputs , the lead trainer prepares the role play on the previous day.
On the next day..
One of the trainers takes the role of mediator. Other participants are chosen for specific roles. The case history – general information is given to all the concerned. Confidential information is given to the concerned participants.
The role play takes place on the Dais.
Step 1:-
Lead trainer gives the gist of the general information / facts of role play., in not less than 3-4 minutes’ time. ( Lead trainer practices well before hand on this so that (i) Time schedule is maintained. (ii) There is clarity . (iii) The facts reach everyone ., without there being any room for confusion.
- Lead trainer also gives the gist of general information , through slides ,in not more than 10-15 lines , spread over 2-3 three slides. Lead trainer requests all the participants to read the same put on the screen.
- As the role play proceeds, the lead trainer uses the laptop.. and goes on mentioning what is going on. Trainees watch the same on the screen.
- The simultaneous inputs given by the lead trainer focuses on:-
- Stages
- Naming the Specific techniques or skills used
- Mistakes( if any) committed , by the mediator .
- As the mediator is going through the process :-
Lead trainer would label the stages by writing : greeting- opening statement / restatement/ joint session/caucus with plaintiff’s advocate/ joint session with plaintiff and his daughter etc..
If the mediator has ignored the advocate – lead trainer would mention” Defendant’s advocate was ignored“.
If the mediator has not used the technique of reflection while restating-lead trainer would write- “ Reflection – not considered”.
The type of question/s asked by the mediator is identified and noted by the lead trainer , like.. “ factual question”, “ bi polar question” etc
Where the mediator is struck the lead trainer can also put suggestions..
“ Mediator can use convergent questions/circular questions..etc.
Thus in every stage what is being done by the mediator is labelled and trainees identify, each and every part of the process.
Guidelines:-
Lead trainer must be very cautious and focused.
Lead trainer must observe the process meticulously.
Lead trainer must be very alert and should not miss out on any technique or skills.
Lead trainer should not aim only at finding fault with the mediator.
Only when necessary corrections may be suggested.
Any of the observations made by the lead trainer must be in one or two words only
Advantages: Participants understand that the mediation process is a meaningful and cautiously structured process.
They understand each of the techniques and skills by name.
They understand how each and every sentence spoken by the mediator and each and every question asked by the mediator must have some relevance .
They understand the importance of structuring the process.
“Boundaries are basically about providing structure, and structure is essential in building anything that thrives.”
Henry Cloud – American Author- Co author of ‘Boundaries’.
(All copyrights reserved by the Author S.Susheela)
Training of Trainers in Mediation 