There has been a recent conversation at the Ontario Association for Family Mediation about whether family mediation training should be “live” with a trainer and/or coaches always present, or whether you can learn it in an asynchronous learning environment, where you watch materials in your own pace and alone.
In asynchronous training, mediators have the flexibility to engage with educational materials and resources at their own pace and convenience. This approach allows individuals to manage their own schedules, accommodating diverse learning styles and catering to those who may have other professional or personal commitments. Trainees can access pre-recorded lectures, online modules, and written materials to deepen their understanding of conflict resolution theories and techniques. However, the potential drawback lies in the limited opportunities for real-time interaction and immediate feedback that synchronous training provides.
On the other hand, synchronous (“live”) training for mediators involves live sessions, workshops, and interactive discussions facilitated by experienced trainers. This is our approach. This method promotes active engagement, instant clarification of doubts, and the ability to simulate real-world mediation scenarios for practical skill development. The dynamic exchange of ideas and experiences in a synchronous setting contributes to a collaborative learning environment, fostering a sense of community among trainees. The obvious drawback is you have to arrange your schedule to be present.
At INSIGHTful mediation training, we believe that each group, much like each mediation, is dynamic and we find each group has different needs and a different pacing, and with “live” present training, we can be responsive intentionally to the group dynamics.
We see the benefit of some aspects of training taking place at your own pace and are cautiously moving to explore this, in particular with our law and family relations courses. Watch for upcoming developments as we seek to provide the absolute best experience for the mediators we train.
Have any thoughts about this topic? Want to learn more about what we do? Our principle trainer, Jennifer, would be happy to talk to you!
