The 38th IATEFL BESIG Annual Conference
We are delighted to announce that the provisionary programme for the 38th IATEFL BESIG Annual Conference, ‘Business Unusual – Rethinking Business English for a Changing World’, is now available online. We have a wide variety of speakers addressing topics such as how to blend coaching and training, teaching soft skills and business communication, ideas and approaches for those with their own businesses, and digital upskilling. We are looking forward to welcoming speakers, sponsors, and delegates at the President Hotel, Kifisias 43, Athens, Greece from 7 – 9 November 2025. All information about registration and accommodation as well as the programme can be found at this link to the conference page on the IATEFL website.
The early bird rate expired on 30 September 2025, but online registration is still possible, and delegates can sign up onsite. We also welcome guests who would like to take part in the social events; please register them at the link above.
Don’t forget about our special party at the hotel on Saturday evening, 8 November 2025 to celebrate our 40-year anniversary. This event can be booked separately on the IATEFL website. For delegates who have registered but not yet booked for this event, please contact Charlotte at [email protected] to sign up.
Online events
Save the Date – IATEFL BESIG is turning 40!
IATEFL BESIG has been busy planning a special online event to enable as many people as possible to take part in a celebration of 40 years of IATEFL BESIG. Former coordinators, committee members, and members will be coming along to chat about the SIG and their experiences and memories. This will take place on Saturday, 18 October at 15.00 (UK time). The event is free and is a wonderful opportunity to connect and reconnect with people from around the globe, catch up with those you haven’t seen in a while, share memories, and have a look ahead at the future of the SIG. Whether you’ve been part of IATEFL BESIG from the start or have recently joined, you’re part of something special. Everyone is welcome, so come along and celebrate with us.
Follow this link to register for the event. Stay tuned for more information through our usual channels. We look forward to seeing you there. Please note that the event will not be recorded.
November Online Workshop from 15.00 – 17.00 (UK time)
Atilla Kosik will be holding an online workshop on Saturday, 15 November 2025 on the topic of ‘Large Language Models, Learner Autonomy and Teaching’.
As education is constantly evolving, the role of learner autonomy is becoming more and more significant. In this workshop, Atilla will explore the dimensions of learner autonomy in modern educational practices. He will critically examine Holec’s definition of learner autonomy, its relevance, and possible up-to-date alternatives. There will be room for discussions on how to foster learner autonomy in order to simplify and enhance teaching.
A key focus of the workshop will be on the role that Large Language Models (LLMs) play in promoting learner autonomy. There will be a chance to debate whether the use of LLMs by learners is a sign of their autonomy or if these models themselves foster autonomous learning. The workshop will also delve into the changing role of teachers in this new environment.
Attila Kosik has been in the industry for over twenty years, working with Business English learners for most of that time. With all that experience under his belt, he now explores how AI is reshaping classrooms. He blends practical experience with curiosity and a healthy dose of scepticism. Attila’s sessions invite teachers to share ideas, challenge assumptions, and discover ways to guide learners toward more independent use of AI.
Follow this link to register for the workshop. Please note that spaces are limited!
The Break Room
As usual, join us on the last Wednesday of the month at 18.00 (UK time) to make new friends, find out what colleagues around the world are up to, and meet up with people you know. Hope to see you at the next Break Room. Follow this link for log-in details.
Follow this link to register for the event. Stay tuned for more information through our usual channels. We look forward to seeing you there. Please note that the event will not be recorded.
Publications
Meet a member blog
We are again looking for members to interview for our ‘Meet a Member’ blog so that IATEFL BESIG members have the chance to get to know one another and discover what others in the SIG are up to. If you are interested or know someone who would be, please email us at [email protected] to get started.
Visit the BESIG website at: www.iateflbesig.org
Find us on social media via our YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook page and Facebook group to stay up to date with our regular news and updates.
Marjorie Rosenberg and Silke Riegler, IATEFL BESIG Joint Coordinators