….TOT 147- THREE PARTS’ TECHNIQUE

Giving advanced training  to those  who have already handled hundreds of mediations is a very great challenge. Trainees may be from different backgrounds. Some of the trainees may have knowledge base but may not have so much of practical experience required to handle different types  of disputes. Some may have handled hundreds or even thousands of mediations and yet may be accustomed to following the   same methodology.  Drawing their attention to consider handling the process differently is a difficult task.  At the end of the day the trainees should not feel that “ We knew all these.. It is more like a refresher course , but not an advanced training”.  Thus one of the primary factors that is required to be kept in mind in any advanced training is that it should be completely different from a refresher course.

Following the  Three Parts’  Technique  helps to address the above issue.

I.PART

Learning through reading and listening.

The identified  reading material ( case histories, scholarly articles, books, videos  etc) on the  topics chosen for consideration  are given in advance to the trainees. They are requested to read the same  and equip themselves with the content knowledge well before the advanced training.

On the day of training,   trainer  gives them further inputs through “lecture” .

2.PART -2

Learning through exercise/role play/conversations/discussions

Trainees are involved in healthy discussions  regarding  grey areas/difficult situations.  Group discussions are encouraged. Trainer uses “Facilitation” method  to lead the conversations and discussions.

Some situational role plays / simulation exercises are  chosen to draw home the point .

3.PART-3

Learning through Coaching

Trainee and the trainer together handle a  given mediation.

Trainer sits as a co -mediator. Trainee proceeds with the process. As and when required  trainer gives tips /suggestions  to the trainee . The tips are given by way of cues  in not more than 1- 3 words in writing.

When the trainee feels struck, the trainer takes the lead role and  from that stage, trainer  proceeds further. Trainee watches the trainer handling the situation differently.

 CAUTION:-

All the  three parts must go hand in hand. If first two parts are dealt with properly, in  the third  part, chances of  intervention of the trainer will be very minimal.

“Decide to be methodical. Rest will fall in place.”

                                           SLAMW

(All Copyrights reserved by the author S.Susheela)