Implementación de un programa de mediación escolar: Análisis de las dificultades percibidas y propuestas de mejora1/Implementation of a school mediation program: analyzing the perceived difficulties and ways to improve it

This research study analyzes the implementation of a Mediation Program at a high school in Madrid. It focuses on the difficulties that the participants encountered while implementing it. During the school year 2011-2012, meetings and training sessions, as well as several focus groups discussions were carried out. Difficulties of different nature were observed (lack of involvement, internal and external coordination difficulties, among others aspects). On the other hand, the participants also expressed their satisfaction with the Mediation Program (as it facilitated a better coexistence in their school or the development of personal skills). Furthermore, some participants' suggestions to improve the Mediation Program are presented. Finally, the necessity of contextualizing these projects within a long term perspective is pointed out. It seems a key factor to be able to prioritize short term objectives, and to consider at least a period of two years for a successful implementation of the program and to carry on with the process in spite of difficulties.