Crafting the Future of Mediation: Ulster University’s Innovative Summer School
Gregory Hunt
As I put the final touches on my contributions to the Ulster University School of Law Professional Mediation Summer School, I can’t help but feel an immense sense of pride. This project has been a labour of love, and it’s thrilling to see it come to fruition.
In developing this programme with its Course Director, John Keers, I have acquired a wealth of new skills. I have learned how to build on-demand programmes that complement our intensive five-day mediator accreditation course. I’ve explored the use of AI and avatars to deliver content effectively (I’ve even set up a second business to do this for others, see Business AI Studio for more details) and have designed end-of-module examinations using our advanced e-learning platform.
This journey has been lengthy but incredibly rewarding. In just a few weeks, all these elements will be seamlessly integrated into the Ulster University curriculum, enhancing our educational offerings.
The on-demand programme encompasses a comprehensive range of modules, including, from Hunt ADR, alongside our five day mediator accreditation programme:
- The Roots of Disputes
- The History of Mediation
- Psychology and Negotiation Strategies in Mediation
- Cultural Considerations in
- Mediation Mediation Case Law
- Defining Mediation
- Mediation Ground Rules and Preparation
- Opening the Mediation
- Exploration Phase
- Bargaining and Closing Techniques
- Ethical Considerations
- Mediation Advocacy
I owe a debt of gratitude to John Keers, Dr. Esther McGuinness, Rhonda Black, and Jason Elliott for their unwavering support. Special thanks to Kelly Thornton, John Jarrett, and Dennis Hamill, who will assist in delivering the in-person components later this month.
Reflecting on my career, I often cite the creation and implementation of CISAS at CIArb as my greatest professional achievement. However, I believe this new endeavour surpasses it.
My vision is for this programme to be widely adopted, teaching students about mediation’s vital role in shaping the next generation of not just lawyers but also business leaders and professionals from diverse fields.
This initiative is more than just an educational programme; it’s a transformative step towards embedding mediation skills across various professional landscapes. By equipping students with these crucial skills, we are fostering a future where conflict resolution is approached with empathy, expertise, and effectiveness. As a package, this is a very attractive offering for any university faculty.
To learn more, contact me on 020 7043 1674 or at gregg@huntadr.com.