Mediation is an informal yet structured process where parties in dispute use an agreed upon neutral, creditable third party who uses a structured process, skills, tools and differing perspectives to assist the parties in resolving their dispute without court intervention, or losing control over the decision making process. This course will explore different theories in conflict resolution, give a framework for alternative dispute resolution (ADR) processes, dissect conflicts and teach beginning mediator skills. This course will explore interpersonal conflict, family disputes, commercial business conflicts and conflict in the workplace to demonstrate the common principles of conflict that run through all these disputes, and the basic values of mediation relevant to any case type.