Outline

Overview

This unit will teach you the fundamental skills and theory of mediation. The skills component of the unit is extensive and is the reason for the limited enrolment. The unit is designed to enable interested students to progress to accreditation as mediators (additional external study with coaching and assessment will be required) and the content of the unit is designed to meet the content requirements of the National Mediator Accreditation System. In particular the content of the subject is designed to explore the competency areas required for accreditation and the knowledge, skills and ethical understanding competency framework set out in the National Mediator Accreditation Standards. However, mediation is not simply a procedural template that can be learned and applied to every dispute with benefit. It raises interesting and complex issues of theory and ethics, which will be integrated with the skills components of the unit. Issues of culture, power, mediator neutrality and ethical dilemmas for the mediator will be considered. Refer to the Sydney Law School timetable - https://canvas.sydney.edu.au/courses/4533/pages/postgraduate-lecture-timetable

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Law
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	LAWS6935
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Tania Sourdin, tania.sourdin@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 7 November 2025

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
In-person practical, skills, or performance task or test	Class and Role-play Participation (0%) participation	0%	Week 07 Due date: 01 Dec 2025 at 23:59 Closing date: 18 Dec 2025	Mandatory Attendance and engagement	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Research essay outline (0%) Essay proposal for students proposing their own topic	0%	Week 07 Due date: 01 Dec 2025 at 23:59 Closing date: 18 Dec 2025	200 words/5 weeks	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Portfolio or journal	Reflective Journal (30%) Reflection on engagement in all teaching and role play activities	30%	Week 07 Due date: 01 Dec 2025 at 23:59 Closing date: 18 Dec 2025	3000 words/5 weeks	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Research Essay (70%) Essay	70%	Week 13 Due date: 12 Jan 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 02 Feb 2026	5000 words/10 weeks	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:

Assessment summary

Class and Role-play Participation (0%) and Reflective Journal (30%): You are required to keep a daily electronic personal journal of the knowledge and skills found important, and how you will utilise the knowledge and skills in your working and personal life. It should also reflect on readings that you have completed following the workshop. Your mark will be given by your reflective journal content, active/enthusiastic participation and reflection, awareness and intelligent comment. A reflective journal guide will be provided. For accreditation purposes, full (100%) attendance is required for a pass grade.

Reflective Journal (30%): The final submission of these 3000 words maximum (including everything) electronic journal, is 11.59pm Monday 1 December 2025 (Sydney, Australia time).

Research Essay Outline (0%): A choice of topics will be released to students on Canvas on the first day of class, 31 October 2025 (Sydney, Australia time). Students may choose a topic from those provided or may devise their own. If you propose your own topic, an essay outline (200 words) must be submitted via Canvas for approval by 11:59 pm on 1 December 2025. (Sydney, Australia time). The essay outline will be non-graded and should detail the proposed content of the Essay and details about the bibliography.

Research Essay (70%): A choice of topics will be released to students on Canvas on the first day of class, 31 October 2025 (Sydney, Australia time). The Research Essay, 5000 words maximum, is due at 11.59pm on Monday 12 January 2026 (Sydney, Australia time). This word count includes all text and headings but not footnotes.

Word limit penalty: A piece of assessment which exceeds the prescribed word limit will attract a penalty of 10% of the total marks available for the piece of assessment for every 100 words, or part thereof. The total word count

for ‘Reflective Journal’ will include all text
for ‘Research Essay’ will include all text and headings but not footnotes.
will exclude acknowledgements of permissible assistance from editors, automated writing tools or generative AI (where use is permitted).

Special consideration: Successful grants of Special Consideration may involve alternative tasks, as appropriate.

Assessment requirements to pass a unit of study: A student must make a genuine attempt at all assessment tasks set out in this Unit of Study in order to obtain a Pass mark and grade (or above); otherwise an Absent Fail grade will be recorded as the student’s result for this Unit of Study.

Referencing: The Sydney Law School expects you to use the Australian Guide to Legal Citation (4th edition, 2018) for your footnoting style, although you should confirm this with your lecturer. A link to the library website where this is set out comprehensively is available at Referencing and Citation Styles: AGLC4.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2021 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	Completely answers the question. Contains striking originality of approach or analysis. Demonstrates exhaustive or innovative research (where independent research required). Exceptionally well written, structured and expressed. Is otherwise exceptional in some way.
Distinction	75 - 84	Completely answers the question. Achieves a critical and evaluative approach to the issues. Content and structure is well organised in support of the argument. Demonstrates extensive research and analysis to support a well-documented argument. Generally well expressed and free from errors. Has a clear structure and is well articulated.
Credit	65 - 74	Covers main issues fairly well in answering the question. Contains no significant errors. Demonstrates an attempted critical approach to the issues. Demonstrates reasonably sound research and analysis in addressing the key issues. Has a clear structure and reasonably clear expression.
Pass	50 - 64	Identifies the key issues, but does not follow through with a reasoned argument. Contains some significant errors. Displays satisfactory engagement with the key issues. Offers a descriptive summary of material relevant to the question. Superficial use of material, and may display a tendency to paraphrase. Demonstrates little evidence of in-depth research or analysis. Adequate expression. Overall, demonstrates the minimum level of competence in the assessment and satisfies the requirements to proceed to higher-level studies in the degree or subject area.
Fail	0 - 49	Does not answer the question. Contains significant or numerous errors. Few or no identifiable arguments. Content that is inappropriate or irrelevant. Lack of research or analysis. Difficult or impossible to understand through poor grammar, expression or structure. Overall, does not demonstrate the minimum level of competence in the assessment.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

The late submission of a piece of assessment, without an approved extension, will attract a penalty of 10% of the total marks available for the piece of assessment per 3 days or part thereof, after the due time on the due date. For example, a submission after the due time specified in the assessment summary but before the same time three days later will attract a 10% penalty. Penalties for late submission will be applied strictly, subject to a 5 minute grace period.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 02	1. Introduction; 2. Alternative Dispute Resolution; 3. Interest based negotiation; 4. Process of mediation; 5. Role Play One - mediation scenario; 6. Debrief mediator skills and processes; 7. Private sessions	Seminar (6.5 hr)
Week 02	1. Review and Private Sessions; 2. Questions in Mediation; 3. Role Play Two - Mediation scenario; 4. Debrief - Skills in Private Session; 5. Reaching Agreement; 6. Reaching Agreement - impasse and reframing; 7. Role Play Three - Mediation Scenario; 8. Debrief	Seminar (6.5 hr)
Week 03	1. Preliminary Conferences - preparation, dispute diagnosis and intake; 2. co-Mediation - communication preferences and understandings; 3. Role Play Four - co-mediation scenario; 4. Debrief; 5. Ethical issues in mediation; Role Play Five - co-mediation scenario; 6. Debrief	Seminar (6.5 hr)
Week 03	1. Review of mediation process; 2. Confidentiality; 3. Role Play Six - fishbowl mediation; 4. Debrief - focus on role of lawyers and experts in mediation; 5. Complex mediation and value conflicts; 6. Ethical understandings - The avoidance of conflicts of interest, marketing/advertising of mediation, fiduciary obligation 7. Questions and Review	Seminar (6.5 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance: All students are required to attend 100% of classes to satisfy the pass requirements for this unit. This course is designed to meet external accreditation requirements that specify that a 100% attendance is required. Failure to meet this requirement will result in an Absent Fail grade being recorded as the student’s result for this unit (see The University of Sydney Law School Resolutions: Coursework Awards cl 11).

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

All readings for this unit can be accessed through the library and are available on Canvas

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Critically evaluate theoretical frameworks to address complex issues in mediation and develop mediation approaches, processes, and skills.
LO2. Apply the knowledge, skills, and ethical standards required to partially meet the competency areas of the National Mediator Accreditation Standards.
LO3. Employ tools and strategies to effectively manage mediation parties and clients during intake and throughout mediation stages.
LO4. Develop and apply strategies to support mediation and alternative dispute resolution processes, fostering constructive negotiation and resolution.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

No changes since unit was last offered

Additional information

Resources - Sydney Law Students

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

LAWS6821: Mediation - Skills and Theory

Intensive October - November, 2025 [Block mode] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links