030017 KU Business and workplace mediation (2024S)

Objectives:
Students learn about the principles and possible applications of business mediation in Austria as well as the basic principles of economic contexts necessary for practising mediation.

Participants will understand the process and structure of the mediation procedure. They will be able to assess when and how business mediation within a company can be used effectively and efficiently, also in comparison to other conflict management procedures.

Contents:
The basics of business management necessary for practical work as a mediator are taught.

The influence of different organisational forms and structures, different personnel and employee management as well as areas of tension in profit-oriented and non-profit-oriented organisations on mediation will be developed.

The special features of business mediation as well as the tasks, rights and obligations of mediators and mediands (parties) are analysed. The differences and similarities to other company/organisational conflict management procedures are also highlighted.

Fields of application of mediation in business are explored using examples from the legally regulated area such as so-called apprentice mediation and mediation in accordance with the Disability Employment Act. The different perspectives of employers and employees will be highlighted. On the inter-company side, we look at the spectrum of mediation and hybrid procedures, for example using the Vienna Mediation Rules of the VIAC and pilot projects for commercial mediation at Austrian courts.

Knowledge of economic relationships is also required in family mediation and is presented and discussed using calculation models.

Economic key points for practising as a self-employed mediator are taught.

Beyond these content-related levels, we work together in dialogue in the course, both in plenary sessions and in small groups. Dialogue versus debate as an attitude, method and procedure is tested together. Case studies are discussed and simulated.