Mediation in Higher Education – Aspects of Application in Conditions of Digital Transformation

: Abstract: The paper researches the application of mediation in the management and conflict resolution in higher education, as well as the inclusion of mediation in business schools curriculums and syllabi. In the digitalization era higher schools undergo a transformation which affects all processes and the relationships of the stakeholders participating in them. Broken communication, personality problems of participants in the education process are but a part of the prerequisites for the emergence of new conflicts in higher education. In this aspect the authors study the application of mediation as a possible alternative for resolving the arguments arising in universities. A broader view of mediation is presented, so as to place mediation not only within the narrow legal frameworks of out-of- court procedures, but also as a means of effective academic communication, as a method of building harmonious academic environment and new culture of communication. The study advocates the thesis for the mediation methods applicability in the processes of education and research at various levels – from resolving conflicts between various stakeholders to adopting mediation as a specific method for conflict resolution in the education in different disciplines, including the offers of Master programs in Mediation and Conflict Resolution. A model is suggested for introducing mediation in higher schools by building university centres aimed at resolving arguments, fostering communication culture and successful communication. Two interrelated viewpoints are intertwined in the study, so as to analyze mediation through the prism of the regulatory framework and the managerial aspects of mediation. On the basis of the analysis carried out conclusions are made concerning the application of mediation in the higher education sector and recommendations are formulated in view of the creation of international university mediation network.