Organizer: The Intensive English Communication Program (IECP) at Penn State
Co-Organizer: Center for Language Acquisition (CLA), Penn State
Date: Thursday, June 25, 2026
Time: 12:30-4:00 p.m. EDT
Location: Pattee and Paterno Library, Penn State (University Park), State College, PA, U.S.
Send your proposal and/or questions to Dr. Di Liang (dxl711@psu.edu)
Call for Proposals
You are cordially invited to submit a presentation proposal for the English Language Teaching (ELT) Professionals Conference and Networking, with the theme of “Emerging Perspectives in ELT: Incorporating Innovative Technology in Practice.”
This in-person conference is part of the Exchange Program hosted by Penn State’s Intensive English Communication Program (IECP) in collaboration with the Center for Language Acquisition (CLA). The program supports English language educators in developing learner-centered, context-responsive teaching practices in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Participants explore ethical and effective uses of emerging technologies, including generative AI, while strengthening pedagogical decision-making and adaptability.
The conference brings together presentations from Exchange Program participants showcasing their capstone projects and from ELT professionals familiar with U.S. higher education contexts. The conference aims to foster dialogue, knowledge sharing, and professional networking across diverse educational contexts.
Proposal Expectations
We welcome 20-minute in-person presentations related to technology-enhanced ELT praxis, including topics such as:
- Interpretation and application of theories in teaching
- Innovative teaching strategies
- Assignments and activity design
- Reflections on current issues in technology and ELT
Submission Requirements
Proposals should include:
- Presentation title
- Name(s) of presenter(s)
- Institutional affiliation
- Contact information (Email address)
- An abstract of no more than 300 words
Presentation Availability and Honorarium
As presentation spots are limited, we encourage each institution or program to coordinate and submit one proposal; cross-institutional collaborations are also welcome. Each selected proposal will receive a $250 honorarium to support the presenter(s)’ travel to the conference location.
Conference Registration
While no registration fee is required, presenter(s) of selected proposal will be required to register for the conference to provide the information necessary for conference credentials, honorarium disbursement, and dietary preferences (Refreshments and light snacks will be provided during the conference).
Timeline
- Monday, April 20, 2026: Proposals Due
- Monday, May 4, 2026: Selected Proposals Notified and Instructions for Conference Registration Sent
- Monday, June 1, 2026: Conference Registration Due
Please send your proposal and/or questions to Dr. Di Liang (dxl711@psu.edu), Interim Director of the IECP, Exchange Program Operations Director