Here are the three steps on how to properly plan for a negotiation:
1. Choose the best time and place when both parties are calm and on neutral ground.
2. Ensure that you know the facts and you have an understanding of the entire situation.
3. Plan and rehearse the things that you are going to say.

When two parties cannot reach a solution through negotiation, it might be necessary to bring in a mediator to settle a conflict.

1. Listening without interrupting
2. Telling the truth
3. Addressing each other with respect

With cheating, compromise is not a wise decision. If your friend copied once, there is a high possibility that she will copy again. It does not teach her anything. This conflict is better to be walked away first until she is calm enough to hear you out.

No

They are more in tune with the ongoings of the issues they are facing. Unlike adult mediators where their environment and the times have changed, the students will know about the type of stress the conflict had brought upon the conflicting parties.

Peer mediation is better for students as they know the environment better than adults.

Here is a sample dialogue that uses conflict-resolution techniques in solving or settling problems:

Luke: Can I go to a basketball game tomorrow?
Mrs. Robinson: But we’re supposed to be doing a spring cleaning tomorrow, right?
Luke: This game is really important to me, mom. I have a great chance of landing a scholarship since Coach Smith is going to watch the game. Please?
Mrs. Robinson: Hmmm… I would allow you to go to the game tomorrow but you’ll have to babysit your sister on the weekend.
Luke: Okay, it’s a deal.

Here is a story that shows how a conflict between two teens, Jenny and Ben, resolve their differences through compromise.

Jenny and Ben have been together for a year already. They are discussing their plans for the upcoming summer vacation.

Jenny: Brian and Kelly are inviting us to go to Miami next month, Ben. I said we’ll join them.

Ben: I thought that I already told you that I am going with James to Alaska?

Jenny: Are you kidding me?

Ben: I thought we had no other plans so I agreed to go with James. What is the problem?

Jenny: But we’re supposed to take our vacation together, right?

Ben: I don’t think I have heard of that rule before. Is there any other rule that you would like for me to know?

Jenny: Whatever. Just go on your vacation with James. When you come back, why don’t you just go to the prom with him?

Ben: I don’t like the way I feel right now. That is not how to fix this, Jenny.

Jenny: I don’t have much to say to you at all.

Ben: Okay, this is what I’ll propose to you. When I come back from Alaska and when you come back from Miami, we can go on a road trip to a place that you wanted to see. Just the two of us.

Jenny: That works for me.

Here is a story that shows how a conflict between two teens, Jenny and Ben, resolve their differences through compromise.

Jenny and Ben have been together for a year already. They are discussing their plans for the upcoming summer vacation.

Jenny: Brian and Kelly are inviting us to go to Miami next month, Ben. I said we’ll join them.

Ben: I thought that I already told you that I am going with James to Alaska?

Jenny: Are you kidding me? (Click to see the full solution)