2026 Maryland Mediators Convention

This session provides a place and space for mediators to come together and begin to explore the impact of technology on the practice of mediation. The session will use three common technologies used during mediation by participants and mediators: Zoom, Linkedin, and AI. Starting with a grounding in the MD Standards of Conduct for Mediators and the Online Dispute Resolution Ethical Standards, the session will identify the relevant ethics connected with these software tools. Next the session will identify some best practices for Zoom to align with the ethical standards. Finally, through scenarios, the session will consider ways that participants are using social media and AI and how it may impact the mediation session and the mediator's ethical obligations. This is an interactive session designed to raise issues as we work together to navigate the dynamic landscape, ethics, and opportunities presented by these technologies.

Learning Objectives:

• To identify ethical issues presented by emerging technologies
• To raise issues and strategies presented by emerging technologies
• To share best practices for Zoom settings