School Mediation under the Spotlight: What Spanish Secondary Students Think of Mediation

Abstract

Educational professionals and policy-makers need to update their strategies to address and prevent school violence. Mediation has proved to be a useful tool for peace-building in different countries by developing individuals, their relationships, and the school climate. However, little research has assessed mediation practices. This study aims to evaluate mediation through the perceptions of secondary school students in Spain in order to highlight strengths and weaknesses of school mediation programs. It specifically aims to learn from the assessment by those who attended mediation and to detect whether there exist any significant differences regarding gender and school year. To do this, we conducted a survey study, and data from 1,198 students were collected by means of an ad hoc questionnaire. A descriptive-inferential study shows the high level of agreement between the students, who rate mediation positively, in particular, those who have used mediation for conflict resolution. Regarding necessary improvements, it is imperative to offer more information about the mediation services provided by the educational centres, to train the entire educational community and to broaden the role played by mediation, which has still to unleash its potential.