MEDIATION SERVICE IN RURAL SCHOOL: RELEVANCE AND NEED FOR IMPLEMENTATION

Abstract

The article examines a problem of the relevance and necessity of introducing a mediation service into rural schools in the Altai Krai. Mediation is seen as an alternative method of conflict resolution, in which an independent third party assists all participants in the educational process to more effectively use conflict resolution skills and tools. Particular attention is paid to a targeted approach when introducing mediation services into schools. It consists of analyzing the conflict nature of the educational environment of a particular school, the characteristics of the subjects of the educational process, their conflict management literacy and readiness for innovative forms of conflict management. The results of an empirical sociological study in one of the rural schools in the region are presented. The practical significance of which lies in identifying the main ways of resolving conflicts in school, the role of a third party in conflict management, respondents’ awareness of school mediation and their interest in creating this service. As a result of the study, the main conclusions are formulated, confirming the need to create a mediation service in a rural school.