How to facilitate a productive and inclusive session at The Wildlife Society’s 2024 Annual Conference
We ask that all who participate, serve, or otherwise engage at The Wildlife Society’s Annual Conference follow the Guidelines for Professional Behavior as established by TWS Council. As a way to help facilitate conduct consistent with the Guidelines, TWS is including some helpful Moderator Tips. These tips are adapted from guidance for in-person meetings provided by the Societies Consortium to end Harassment in STEMM.
The Societies Consortium is an initiative to advance professional and ethical conduct, climate, and culture within STEMM professional societies and academic institutions. The Wildlife Society joined the Societies Consortium in 2019.
Moderator Tips:
Familiarize yourself with the Guidelines for Professional Behavior. As a moderator, you should not only adhere to the Guidelines but also maintain the civility of the discussion for everyone.
Demonstrate respect and consideration for all people. Engage in introductions with session speakers and remember to not make assumptions. Allow individuals to self-identify and seek to clarify pronunciation of names.
Remind participants and attendees about the Guidelines for Professional Behavior and the availability of on-site resources like the Conference Ombuds – Jen Sims.
Be mindful of and listen well to others. Make room for a diversity of voices during sessions. Invite others to engage but be sensitive not to pressure those who have not yet communicated.
Demonstrate that differing perspectives are valued. Be civil and critique ideas—not people—and encourage others to do the same.
Recognize differences of opinion from offense. It is not a violation of the Guidelines to express an opinion, raise research, or describe an experience that is at odds with the opinions of others—if the articulation reflects intellectual rigor and is part of an on-point discussion of the topic at hand. It should not interfere with the reasonable ability of others to participate fully.
Interject as needed to ensure that the Guidelines are being embraced. This includes demonstrating consideration for anyone who appears in distress by promptly stopping the cause, but still pursuing a way to share pertinent information with assistance from TWS if needed.
If you believe that a participant or attendee’s behavior is unacceptable, alert TWS (staff have a red badge ribbon). You may also ask that individual to stop the behavior and comply with the Guidelines. If the behavior continues, you may calmly ask the individual to leave the session and to raise any questions or concerns with TWS. Do not argue with any participant or attendee.
Take time to appreciate the sessions you are moderating. In addition to being a much-appreciated part of TWS’ Annual Conference, moderating a session is an ideal opportunity to expand your network, meet new researchers, and benefit your own research program.