Mediation is defined as a structured, interactive process where an impartial third party assists disputing parties in resolving conflict through the use of specialized communication and negotiation techniques. A definition like that would test the limits of boredom when introduced into the real world. Luckily, UNLV Continuing Education’s lead instructor, Patricia Battie, goes above and beyond injecting her enthusiasm and passion into every class.
The mediation program includes learning the five conflict resolution styles, while also ensuring students discover which default style they utilize. This instruction method best prepares future mediators to resolve conflicts with a wide variety of scenarios and personality types.
Patricia Battie, is from Las Vegas, having earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the University of Phoenix, then going on to complete her Master of Public Administration at UNLV. She has been active in the field of mediation for over 16 years and is currently the lead trainer for the Clark County Neighborhood Justice Center.
“I can’t think of a company out there that wouldn’t want employees with mediation skills that can solve conflicts between co-workers or clients at a lower level rather than things always getting escalated.” Patricia goes on to say, “this program is open to anyone, from homemakers, lawyers, and even politicians.”
She also pointed out that the benefits of these skills are far reaching. Employees can use these new skills within the workplace for higher performance on team projects, parents can better resolve conflicts in the home, or even leadership can improve morale and productivity by empathizing with potential employee issues. Essentially these skills can be used across the board in a variety of ways to attain personal and professional goals.
Patricia proudly stresses the strengths of UNLV’s program come from not only their highly informative in-class lectures, but also their interactive sessions that allow students to practice what they are learning from a wide variety of conflict strategies. “The highlight of the program is the fun learning environment we create with people who all want to learn as much as they can about the mediation process.”
Learn more about the Mediation Certificate Program.