NAETISL Professional Learning: Affective Presence & Meeting Management

Explore how interpreters shape the dynamics of general/special ed meetings through their emotional presence and meeting management skills.
About this Event

Join our NAETISL distinguished course instructor, Mauricio Dangond to discuss how interpreters’ emotional “signatures”—their affective presence—can either ease or intensify the stress of meetings in education settings. Positive affective presence enables families to feel more comfortable and engaged, creating a welcoming environment that fosters open communication. In contrast, a negative presence can increase tension, creating barriers that impede dialogue. Through examples, the presentation highlights how interpreters’ demeanor, whether warm and approachable or distant, directly impacts both parents’ and staff members’ comfort and willingness to participate.

The session transitions into specific meeting management techniques interpreters can use to maintain an effective, balanced flow of communication. This includes pre-meeting briefings, appropriate interjections for clarification, and the professional use of gestures and positioning. These techniques support interpreters in managing pace, addressing misunderstandings, and creating a non-intimidating atmosphere.

Space is limited. Session will not be recorded.

Discounts for NAETISL Members. Not a member yet? Visit https://naetisl.org/membership