Expert Talks

Language teaching and language coaching are sometimes presented as opposing approaches, but learners often need both. In this Expert Talk, Elizabeth Elmer will explore how educators can make intentional choices between teaching and coaching, drawing on her extensive experience in both. She will consider when to explain, model, correct, and guide, and when to listen, question, encourage reflection, and support learner autonomy in the classroom. Drawing on more than 50 years in TESOL and her experience as a language coach, educator, and author, Elizabeth will connect language coaching with the humanistic and learner-centred traditions that have long influenced language education. She will also share insights from her work and writing in the emerging field of language coaching. The presentation will be interactive and conversational, with host Gabriella Kovács, ILCA Co-Founder, joining the discussion throughout. Their conversation will create space to explore broader questions around language coaching: What do we mean by language coaching? What is its scope? How does it connect with established approaches in language education? And what can educators gain by viewing teaching and coaching as complementary rather than competing approaches? The discussion will also touch on the opportunities and challenges of developing, researching, writing about, and promoting language coaching as an emerging field. The session will conclude with an open Q&A, giving participants an opportunity to raise their own questions, share perspectives, and continue the conversation.

Elizabeth Elmer, M.S. Education (TESOL – USC), is an English language and communication coach, educator, author, and Founder–Director of American Center English Language and Educational Services in Mexico City. With more than 50 years of experience in education, she has worked with learners of all ages, professionals, teachers, schools, universities, and educational organizations. Her career includes university teaching, school leadership, teacher education, and serving as National President of Alpha Delta Kappa Mexico. A founding member of MEXTESOL and recipient of the 2022 Excellence in Education Award in Mexico, Elizabeth is also the author of Empowering Learners Through Language Coaching: A Practical Guide for You. Her humanistic, learner-centerd approach combines teaching and coaching to help learners develop confidence, autonomy, and a stronger voice in English. Website: elizabethelmer.com | Email: languagecoach@elizabethelmer.com