There is some supportive evidence about peer mediation as well as conflict resolution training/education from meta analyses such as:

Burrell, N. A., Zirbel, C. S., & Allen, M. (2003). Evaluating peer mediation outcomes in educational settings: A meta-analytic review. Conflict Resolution Quarterly, 21, 7-26.

Garrad, W. M., & Lipsey, M. W. (2007). Conflict resolution education and antisocial behavior in U. S. schools: A meta-analysis. Conflict Resolution Quarterly, 25, 9-38

Also see:

Cunningham, C. E., Cunningham, L. J., Martorelli, V., Tran, A., Young, J., & Zacharias, R. (1998). The effects of primary division, student-mediated conflict resolution programs on playground aggression. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 39, 653-662.

However, there are some serious cautions in using peer mediation for situations other than conflict, such as in bullying, where there is a power imbalance. Work in the U.K. (see studies by Helen Cowie and colleagues) has revealed several benefits of peer mediation, but also some limitations such as it being less effective for boys and the phenomenon of peer helpers experiencing hostility from the peer group.

Thanks Amanda

Hello Don,

Checkout our recent publication:  Can Peace be taught? http://www.flemishpeaceinstitute.eu/sites/vlaamsvredesinstituut.eu/files/files/reports/can_peace_be_taught_revised.pdf 

We made an inventory and a critical review of existing peace education research.

Kind regards,

Filip

Thanks Flip, that's some very good information. It fits with my philosophy of peace in schools to build peace in society. 

One of my master students just finished his dissertation on bullying taking place in public secondary schools in Uruguay, and one of his results (qualitative approach) is precisely that peer mediation helps because students feel engaged in the implementation of the solutions, and sometimes are better than adults in finding the best ways to communicate to peers. Regards, Adriana.