Introduction and Overview of Module 7

Module 7 begins with a focus on Interest-Based Negotiation and Solution Brainstorming, drawing from Fisher and Ury’s Getting to Yes. Students learn to shift from positional bargaining to uncovering deeper interests, facilitating creative brainstorming sessions, and using objective criteria for fair evaluations. Real-world examples like workplace disputes and family conflicts help illustrate how mediators can guide parties toward mutually beneficial agreements.

The second lecture addresses one of the most challenging aspects of mediation: overcoming impasse. Drawing from scholars like Christopher Moore and Bernard Mayer, this session explores why negotiations stall and offers practical techniques like breakout caucusing, reframing, and reality-testing to break deadlocks. Creative approaches such as “expanding the pie” and “logrolling” are also introduced to uncover hidden opportunities and maintain momentum.

The final lecture ties everything together by diving into key negotiation concepts: BATNA, ZOPA, reframing, and problem-solving techniques. Students learn how to identify fallback options, uncover common ground, and transform negative dialogue into constructive conversations. With a comprehensive toolkit from foundational texts like Getting to Yes, Difficult Conversations, and The Mediation Process, students will be well-equipped to facilitate balanced, durable agreements in even the most complex mediations.