Working Symbolically: Using Stories in Negotiation and Mediation Training

Abstract This article develops a framework to guide trainers on how to use stories in their negotiation and mediation training. We argue that the symbolic language inherent in stories holds the four dimensions of the Experiential Learning Cycle ( elc ) together, that is: experiencing, reflecting, thinking, and acting. Stories thus contribute to more effective and holistic learning processes and outcomes. We provide guidance on how to put this into practice, both in storytelling and in enacted stories, that is, role plays. A special focus is placed on developing and running homegrown role plays that are developed by participants from the context they are from. We show how stories are one way to better contextualize training and bring aspects of the narrative, discourse turn of conflict resolution into course settings. We do not offer systematic empirical evidence of the approach’s effectiveness.