SIGs Bylaw
TESOL TÜRKİYE
SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS’ (SIGs’) BYLAW
TESOL Türkiye SIGs
1.1. Definition of SIGs and their Role in TESOL Türkiye
SIGs are entities formed by TESOL Türkiye members to pursue goals consistent with the Association’s mission to advance the quality of English language teaching by contributing to the sustainable quality of teacher education and in-service professional learning in Türkiye through collaboration, open exchange of practice, research, standards, and advocacy, and thus, add value to TESOL Türkiye membership . SIGs are part of TESOL Türkiye's structure and operate within the parameters of TESOL Türkiye's policies and regulations.
1.2. Purpose of SIGs
The purpose of SIGs is to create various platforms where members who share interest in a particular area related to English Language Teaching work together on a specific set of concerns, collect and disseminate information on the specialty, and exchange opinions as well as expertise through opportunities such as;
a) an annual online newsletter,
b) a Pre-Conference event at the TESOL Türkiye Annual Conference,
c) a biennial SIG Conference,
d) monthly workshops or seminars,
e) working groups for research, and development.
2. Definitions
Words and phrases in this handbook have the following meanings.
|
Handbook
|
This handbook last updated and issued by TESOL Türkiye's Board of Directors on 05/10/2021 that will serve as TESOL Türkiye Special Interest Groups’ Bylaw
|
|
TESOL Türkiye
|
The Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Association established in Türkiye pursuant to Law No. 5253 on Associations
|
|
SIGs
|
TESOL Türkiye's Special Interest Groups
|
|
The [proposed] Bylaw
|
The bylaw of each Special Interest Group
|
|
The [proposed] budget
|
The budget of each Special Interest Group
|
|
Its mission statement
|
The mission statement of each Special Interest Group
|
|
Members
|
Members in good standing of TESOL Türkiye who have joined or are willing to join one or more of the SIGs
|
|
Executive Committee
|
The executive committee of a SIG
|
|
Board of Directors
|
TESOL Türkiye's Board of Directors
|
|
Ordinary or extraordinary general meetings
|
An ordinary or extraordinary general meeting of the members of a SIG convened by the Executive Committee of the SIG to be held in person, on paper or online in accordance with its bylaw
|
|
Coordinator/Joint Coordinators
|
The Coordinator or Joint Coordinators of a SIG
|
|
Treasurer
|
The Treasurer of each SIG
|
|
Events coordinators
|
Members of the Executive Committee of a SIG designated to coordinate one or multiple SIG event(s)
|
|
SIG’s Pre-Conference event
|
A one-day event held on the day before TESOL Türkiye's Annual Conference
|
|
Annual membership fee
|
A SIGs annual membership fee collected from each member determined by the Executive Committee with approval from TESOL Türkiye's Board of Directors
|
3. Establishment of a SIG
A SIG may be proposed by any TESOL Türkiye member in good standing as long as the area of specialty is relevant to the mission and goals of the Association. To propose a SIG, the proposer sends a proposal to the Board of Directors. The proposal must include:
a) the name and scope of the SIG;
b) its mission statement;
c) the proposed Bylaw;
d) the proposed budget for the first year's operation;
e) the names and signatures of minimum ten (10) members –in good standing- willing to join the SIG;
f) the names and bio-data of the proposed officers of the SIG's Founding Executive Committee (for each position specified in the proposed Bylaw);
g) a letter from each member of the proposed SIG's Executive Committee affirming that the person is an active Member of TESOL Türkiye and willing to serve if appointed.
The Board of Directors will not consider a proposal until all of the above requirements are met. A SIG is created upon the approval of the majority of the Board of Directors (three of the five members) and governed by a set of bylaws which defines the activities and executive committee of that SIG.
4. Membership and Membership Fees
SIGs are open to those who are TESOL Türkiye members. All members of a SIG must pay dues as determined by the Executive Committee of the SIG with approval from the Board Directors.
5. Decision-Making in SIGs
Decisions shall be taken in a democratic way at ordinary or extraordinary general meetings. TESOL Türkiye will be notified of any such meeting not less than one (1) month in advance and shall have the discretion to send an observer.
All members of a SIG shall have a vote in any ballot conducted within a SIG.
1. Save the Founding Executive Committee, all following Executive Committees of SIGs – to be approved and appointed by the TESOL Türkiye Board of Directors – shall be elected with the votes of the simple majority of the members of the SIG (50% +1).
2. Any vote to remove a member of the Executive Committee shall require a majority of two-thirds (2/3) of the total number of members.
3. Amendments to be made to a SIG bylaw must be proposed with the approval of two-thirds (2/3) of the SIG members, and approved by TESOL Türkiye's Board of Directors.
4. A resolution to dissolve a SIG shall also require the votes of a two-thirds (2/3) of the members.
5.1. Establishment of Executive Committees
An Executive Committee normally comprises between 3 to 7 members depending on the number of its members.
5.1.1. Founding Executive Committees
Members of founding Executive Committees must be members of TESOL Türkiye in good standing and approved by TESOL Türkiye's Board of Directors.
The term of office of each member of the founding Executive Committee shall be not less than two (2) and not more than three (3) years. Following completion of an initial term, any member of the founding Executive Committee may stand for election for a second term.
5.1.2. Executive Committees Thereafter
SIG Executive Committees shall be elected in a democratic way. Only current members of the SIG in good standing, who have been members for one year or more, may stand for election to the Committee of that SIG. Candidates for all executive positions must also be members of TESOL Türkiye in good standing. The elected Executive Committee is appointed by TESOL Türkiye's Board of Directors.
Following completion of an initial term, any member of the Executive Committee may stand for election for a second term. A member of the Executive Committee may not stand for further election having served two (2) terms until at least one term has elapsed.
5.2. Duties and Responsibilities of the Executive Committee
Each Executive Committee must have a Coordinator or Joint Coordinators and a Treasurer.
5.2.1. SIG Coordinator/Joint Coordinators
The SIG Coordinator or Joint Coordinators are primarily responsible for:
1. ensuring that the mission and activities of the SIG are in line with the TESOL Türkiye's goal to advance the quality of English language teaching;
2. coordinating and monitoring the activities of the members of the Executive Committee;
3. scheduling and holding Committee Meetings and General Meetings;
4. maintaining regular contact with TESOL Türkiye to ensure that the Board of Directors are updated on the SIG’s activities before they are announced and publicized;
5. ensuring that requests to the TESOL Türkiye Board of Directors are submitted on time;
6. keeping the minutes of SIG Executive Committee meetings and SIG General Meetings, and sending these to the TESOL Türkiye Board of Directors;
7. creating opportunities for members of the SIG to work together, to collect and disseminate information, and to exchange opinions as well as expertise;
8. managing the budget;
9. working with other SIG Coordinators to create mutual development opportunities.
5.2.2. Treasurer
The Treasurer is primarily responsible for:
1. preparing an annual budget in consultation with the SIG Coordinator or Joint Coordinators;
2. submitting the annual budget to the TESOL Türkiye Board of Directors for approval;
3. working in close collaboration with TESOL Türkiye's Treasurer to manage the SIG’s finances;
4. working with the SIG Coordinator/Joint Coordinators and events coordinators to prepare conference and event budgets;
5. overseeing expenses;
6. submitting the previous year’s year-end figures to the TESOL Türkiye Board of Directors and presenting these figures to the members of the SIG at the General Meeting.
5.2.3. Other Members of the Executive Committee
Other responsibilities of the Executive Committee include:
1. managing acceptances, resignations and terminations of members;
2. keeping members of the SIG informed of upcoming events and the calendar for these;
3. using the social media extensively for promotion purposes and to disseminate information related to the SIG;
4. cooperating with TESOL Türkiye's Promotion Professional Council to ensure that the SIG webpage on the TESOL Türkiye website is updated;
5. collaborating with other SIGs for mutual research opportunities;
6. organizing monthly workshops or seminars;
7. preparing the annual online newsletter;
8. organizing the SIG’s Pre-Conference event at the TESOL Türkiye Annual Conference;
9. setting up working groups for research and development;
10. organizing the biennial SIG Conference.
6. Financial Responsibilities and Sponsorships
TESOL Türkiye has limited funds and endeavors to keep expenditure as low as possible. Each SIG receives an annual membership fee from each member. This fee is determined by the Executive Committee with the approval of the TESOL Türkiye Board of Directors.
If SIGs wish to seek sponsorship from commercial organizations for help with their events and activities, they need to first contact the TESOL Türkiye Board of Directors for approval to ensure that the sponsorship does not compromise TESOL Türkiye.
7. Use of the TESOL Türkiye Logo
Posters, newsletters and other printed material prepared by SIGs as well letterheads used by each shall bear the TESOL Türkiye logo. This logo cannot be smaller than the SIG logo.
8. Notifications, Requests and Complaints/Grievances Sent to TESOL Türkiye
8.1. Notifications
In the case of workshops and seminars, SIG Executive Committees shall inform the TESOL Türkiye Board of Directors of the nature and scope of the event at least fifteen (15) days before the event is scheduled to take place. In the case of the annual Pre-Conference Event and the biennial SIG Conference, this notification shall be done thirty (30) days before the conference date.
8.2. Requests
Requests for support (financial or otherwise) and/or approvals for projects, scholarships and similar opportunities shall be submitted to the TESOL Türkiye Board of Directors at least fifteen (15) days before a response is required. Similarly, material to be uploaded to the SIG webpage shall be submitted to the relevant member of TESOL Türkiye Promotion Professional Council (15) days before it is expected to appear on the webpage.
8.3. Complaints and Grievances
TESOL Türkiye encourages members of SIGs to resolve issues amongst themselves. However, if the Executive Committee is unable to effectively resolve the grievance within fifteen (15) days, TESOL Türkiye shall be officially notified of the problem and establish a committee of three (3) independent TESOL Türkiye members to investigate the issue in question and propose a solution. This committee shall report directly to TESOL Türkiye's Board of Directors in writing within thirty (30) days following its appointment. The final decision as to how the issue will be resolved will be made by the Board of Directors and conveyed to the Executive Board within ten (10) days following the receipt of the committee’s report.
9. Review Cycle
The Board of Directors will conduct a review of each SIG at least once every three years to affirm that the SIG continues to function in line with its mission, that the Executive Committee complies with the SIG Bylaw and policies, and that the SIG members continue to support it. These reviews can be used as a basis for removals and dissolutions.
9.1. Removal of Members of the Executive Committee
The TESOL Türkiye Board of Directors shall have the right to remove any member of the Executive Committee for good cause. Failure to comply with the TESOL Türkiye's Constitution, Bylaws, or the rules of procedure as well as failure to adequately carry out the prescribed duties of office shall be grounds for removal from the Executive Committee.
In the event of a proposed removal, the TESOL Türkiye Board of Directors shall provide written reasons to the member of the Executive Committee and allow the member to make representations in opposition to the removal.
Members of a SIG may propose a motion to remove any member of the Executive Committee for good cause. Such a proposal must be made to the Executive Committee in writing and clearly state the reasons for the proposed removal, these being failure to comply with the TESOL Türkiye's Constitution and/or Bylaws, and/or the rules of procedure as well as failure to adequately carry out the prescribed duties of office. Any vote to remove a member of the Executive Committee shall require a majority of two-thirds (2/3) of the total number of members. The Executive Committee shall immediately inform the Board of Directors of any such proposed motion upon receipt of the written proposal.
9.2. Dissolution of a SIG
Any SIG may be dissolved by the Board of Directors if its activities are considered harmful to TESOL Türkiye and/or it shows no sign of existence for one year (e.g. the Coordinator cannot be reached or reports no activity).
With a two-thirds vote majority, the members of a SIG may decide to dissolve the SIG. In such an event, the Executive Committee shall notify TESOL Türkiye as soon as reasonably practicable before proceeding with dissolution.
We bring together academic managers, directors of studies, school owners, senior teachers, coordinators, supervisors, principals, deputy heads, and anyone else involved in or interested in leadership and management in language teaching organisations.
TESOL Türkiye LAMSIG’s aim is to facilitate connecting and developing managers and leaders in the field of English Language Teaching, both in Türkiye and abroad, through sharing resources, ideas, and good practices.
Our main activities include:
· organizing workshops, seminars, training, discussion forums, and working groups for research and conferences
· facilitating networking among managers, leaders, coordinators, senior teachers and deputy heads through digital and face to face platforms
· taking part in national and international leadership events
· providing guidance, consultancy, mentoring and coaching through professional development activities and training
· organizing or facilitating social activities among members
· operating internationally, affiliating and conducting joint studies or cooperating with foreign associations/agencies
Co-Coordinator
Gökçe Erkan
Gökçe Erkan graduated from the Department of Foreign Language Education at Middle East Technical University (METU). She completed her MA and PhD degrees at the same department. After working at the Bilkent University School of English Language for four years, she moved to the Department of Modern Languages (MLD) at METU. She is currently a full-time instructor at this department. During her work at MLD, she has undertaken many responsibilities including being a tester, the assistant chair and the chair of the department. She is currently acting as the Vice Director at the School of Foreign Languages at METU. She has also offered ELT courses as a visiting lecturer at the university’s Department of Foreign Language Education. She has been a member of the Executive Board of TESOL Türkiye LAMSIG since 2021.
Co-Coordinator
Zeynep Oğul
Zeynep Oğul, MEd, received her BA degree in English Language Teaching and MA degree in Educational Administration, Supervision, Planning and Economics. She has 28 years of experience as an ELT professional, 19 of which also includes administrative expertise at Kocaeli University, Koç University, and Acıbadem University in Turkey. She has gained strong experience in curriculum design, curriculum-based assessment, and leadership and management in these 28 years. Zeynep also led and successfully completed the international accreditation scheme of the Preparatory English Program at Acıbadem University. As a certified teacher trainer, she has given presentations on different topics on ELT and educational leadership areas. Since July 2022, she has been the Academic Programs and ELT Manager in ETS EMEA, a non-profit organization with the mission to advance quality and equity in education to power human progress, unlocking more opportunities for everyone, everywhere. Zeynep is also in the TESOL Türkiye - LAMSIG Executive Board.
Social Media Specialist
Ceren Aktay Eryılmaz
Ceren Aktay Eryılmaz holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Translation Studies from Istanbul University, and completed her MA in the same field at Mersin University. With over 14 years of experience, she has held diverse roles in the fields of Translation Studies and ELT. Since joining Beykent University in 2013, she has taken on multiple roles including an English instructor, a level coordinator, and the Head of the Institutional Effectiveness and Quality Enhancement Unit (IEQEU) within the School of Foreign Languages. She also briefly served as a visiting lecturer at the university’s Translation and Interpreting Department.
In her role as the Head of the IEQEU, she played an active role in her institution's accreditation and quality processes. She pursued her interest in this field with DEDAK, where she became a member in 2019 and underwent advanced reviewer training in the following years. In 2023-2024 Academic Year, she completed her first cycle as a reviewer for DEDAK. Moreover, she has been serving on the Executive Committee of TESOL Türkiye LAMSIG since 2023.
Event Organizer
Şebnem Öztürk
Şebnem Öztürk is the Assistant Director and an English Language Instructor at the Department of Foreign Languages, TOBB University of Economics and Technology. She has held various roles at TOBB ETU since 2009, including Curriculum Development Unit Coordinator, and has over 18 years of teaching experience at institutions such as Ufuk University and Gazi University. She holds a PhD in Educational Administration from Gazi University, an MSc in Educational Administration, Inspection, Planning, and Economy from Ankara University, and a BA in English Language Teaching from Middle East Technical University. She is a trained reviewer for DEDAK and a member of TESOL Türkiye. Her professional development includes certifications and training in areas such as educational administration and leadership, quality assurance and instructional methodologies through programs in both Türkiye and international settings.
Treasurer
Koray Tunç
Koray Tunç studied English Language and Literature at Dumlupinar University and got his master's degree in English Language and Literature at Yeditepe University. He is now a Ph.D. candidate in English Literature. He started teaching young learners at private schools and moved his career to higher education in 2013. Since 2014, he has been working as an English instructor at Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakıf University Foreign Languages Department. He worked as the Educational Technologies Coordinator between the years 2015 and 2018 and as the Assistant Director between 2018-2019. He has been running the Foreign Languages Department as the director since March 2019. In addition to his current role, he is a member of the Quality Committee and the Distant Education Center of FSMVU. He has been delivering induction programs and teacher training courses with a special focus on integrating technology and AI into language teaching.
LAMSIG PRE-CONFERENCE EVENT
17.04.2025
LAMSIG invites you to LAMSIG and QUASIG's collaborative workshop “Sine quibus non in leadership, management, and quality assurance” on April 17, 2025 at 14:00 pm, and their workshop “Leading Education Forward: A Hands-on Session on Management Tricks” at 15:30 pm. Please click for more details.
Review
Close
LAMSIG invites you to LAMSIG and QUASIG's collaborative workshop “Sine quibus non in leadership, management, and quality assurance” on April 17, 2025 at 14:00 pm (GMT+3), and their workshop “Leading Education Forward: A Hands-on Session on Management Tricks” at 15:30 pm (GMT+3).
WORKSHOP I
LAMSIG and QUASIG invite you to the collaborative workshop “Sine quibus non in leadership, management, and quality assurance” on April 17, 2025 at 14:00 pm.
The event welcomes all ELT professionals who are experienced and/or interested in leading/managing language programs passionate about quality assurance schemes and/or are contributors of the quality assurance boards at K12 or higher-education institutions.
We are proud to host Dr. Deniz Kurtoğlu Eken in this workshop. Please see the session abstract below:
Sine quibus non in leadership, management, and quality assurance
In this session, we will discuss the invaluable benefits of adopting a holistic learning-oriented approach in leadership and management in order to enhance school effectiveness and quality assurance practices. We will explore how relational leadership, Appreciative Inquiry (AI), interconnectedness, data-informed decision making, and sustainability serve as the sine quibus non towards achieving this goal while fostering such a holistic learning-oriented mindset.
Presenter’s Bio
Dr. Deniz Kurtoğlu Eken works as an instructor and Projects, Development, and Research Coordinator at Sabancı University, School of Languages, where she also served as the director for 10 years. Over the years, she has been actively involved in school development, management and leadership, institutional research, teacher and trainer training, and development. She has collaborated with institutions such as UCLES, the British Council in Turkey and the UK, the U.S. Embassy, and the Turkish Ministry of Education, as well as with various schools and universities in Türkiye.
Dr. Kurtoğlu Eken has designed several training programs, including the Sabancı University School of Languages Trainer Training Program (SLTEP), OUP School Effectiveness and Improvement through Research and Development (SEIRD), Cambridge Mentorship Training Program, and Gordion Akademi's Learning and Research-Oriented Schools (LaROS) and Mentorship for Leadership. For further details on her professional activities, presentations, and publications, you can visit her website at: http://myweb.sabanciuniv.edu/kurtoglueken/.
WORKSHOP II
LAMSIG invites you to the workshop “Leading Education Forward: A Hands-on Session on Management Tricks” on April 17 2025 at 15:30 PM (GMT+3). We warmly welcome all ELT professionals who are experienced, seasoned ELT leaders, and/or our colleagues who are enthusiastic about following the steps.
We are proud to host the valuable ELT leaders and the LAMSIG Executive Board as presenters in this workshop. Please see the session abstract below.
Leading Education Forward: A Hands-on Session on Management Tricks
In today's ever-changing world of education, it's more important than ever for leaders to come together and brainstorm ways to tackle challenges head-on. This workshop is designed to provide us all with the opportunity to brainstorm on the tools and techniques we need to make informed decisions, create the best learning environments, deal with any problems that come up and will keep coming up, and use new technologies and data-driven strategies in our schools. We'll engage in interactive problem-solving activities, explore real-world case studies, and participate in role-play scenarios. Join us for a lively experience-sharing session on managing language schools within the Turkish context!
Presenter’s’ Bio
Gökçe Erkan – LAMSIG - Co-Coordinator
Gökçe Erkan graduated from the Department of Foreign Language Education at Middle East Technical University (METU). She completed her MA and PhD degrees at the same department. After working at the Bilkent University School of English Language for four years, she moved to the Department of Modern Languages (MLD) at METU. She is currently a full-time instructor at this department. During her work at MLD, she has undertaken many responsibilities including being a tester, the assistant chair and the chair of the department. She is currently acting as the Vice Director at the School of Foreign Languages at METU. She has also offered ELT courses as a visiting lecturer at the university’s Department of Foreign Language Education. She has been a member of the Executive Board of TESOL Türkiye LAMSIG since 2021.
Zeynep Oğul – LAMSIG - Co-Coordinator
Zeynep Oğul, MEd, received her BA degree in English Language Teaching and MA degree in Educational Administration, Supervision, Planning and Economics. She has 30 years of experience as an ELT professional, which also includes administrative expertise at Kocaeli University, Koç University, and Acıbadem University in Türkiye. As a certified teacher trainer, she has given presentations on different topics on ELT and educational leadership areas. Since July 2022, she has been the Academic Programs and ELT Manager in ETS EMEA, a non-profit organization with the mission to advance quality and equity in education to power human progress, unlocking more opportunities for everyone, everywhere. She has been serving as a member of TESOL Türkiye - LAMSIG Executive Board since 2021.
Ceren Aktay Eryılmaz – LAMSIG- Social Media Specialist
Ceren Aktay Eryılmaz holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Translation Studies from Istanbul University, and completed her MA in the same field at Mersin University. With over 14 years of experience, she has held diverse roles in the fields of Translation Studies and ELT. Since joining Beykent University in 2013, she has taken on multiple roles including an English instructor, a level coordinator, and the Head of the Institutional Effectiveness and Quality Enhancement Unit (IEQEU) within the School of Foreign Languages. She also briefly served as a visiting lecturer at the university’s Translation and Interpreting Department. In her role as the Head of the IEQEU, she played an active role in her institution's accreditation and quality processes. She pursued her interest in this field with DEDAK, as a reviewer. Moreover, she has been serving on the Executive Committee of TESOL Türkiye LAMSIG since 2023.
Şebnem Öztürk -LAMSIG - Event Organizer
Şebnem Öztürk is the Assistant Director and an English Language Instructor at the Department of Foreign Languages, TOBB University of Economics and Technology. She has held various roles at TOBB ETU since 2009, including Curriculum Development Unit Coordinator, and has over 18 years of teaching experience at institutions such as Ufuk University and Gazi University. She holds a PhD in Educational Administration from Gazi University, an MSc in Educational Administration, Inspection, Planning, and Economy from Ankara University, and a BA in English Language Teaching from Middle East Technical University. She is a trained reviewer for DEDAK and a member of TESOL Türkiye. Her professional development includes certifications and training in areas such as educational administration and leadership, quality assurance and instructional methodologies through programs in both Türkiye and international settings.
Koray Tunç – LAMSIG - Treasurer
Koray Tunç studied English Language and Literature at Dumlupinar University and got his master's degree in English Language and Literature at Yeditepe University. He is now a Ph.D. candidate in English Literature. He started teaching young learners at private schools and moved his career to higher education in 2013. Since 2014, he has been working as an English instructor at Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakıf University Foreign Languages Department. He has been running the Foreign Languages Department as the director since March 2019. In addition to his current role, he is a member of the Quality Committee and the Distant Education Center of FSMVU. He has been delivering induction programs and teacher training courses with a special focus on integrating technology and AI into language teaching.
Further details:
We invite any ELT professional interested in management and leadership to join us in LAMSIG. In order to become a LAMSIG member, please click on the ‘TESOL Türkiye’ button on the homepage and select the ‘All products’ tab. You can then purchase a LAMSIG membership and join us.
If you require an institutional invoice, we kindly ask you to fill out the following form: forms.gle/5E6DyP2gLUPSVifU9
Weathering the Storm: Succeeding as an ELT Leader Amidst Resistance with Resilience
06.03.2025
Join us for an insightful webinar as we explore “Weathering the Storm: Succeeding as an ELT Leader Amidst Resistance with Resilience”.
Review
Close
LAMSIG invites you to our insightful webinar on March 06, 2025, at 8:00 pm (GMT+3). Join us for our event as we explore “Weathering the Storm: Succeeding as an ELT Leader Amidst Resistance with Resilience”.
Abstract:
Leading in ELT comes with its challenges, and resistance—whether from staff, institutional policies, or external factors—is inevitable. How leaders respond to resistance determines whether it becomes a roadblock or a stepping stone. This interactive session will explore real-life examples of resistance in educational settings and provide practical strategies to manage pushback effectively while fostering resilience. Participants will gain insights into guiding difficult conversations, building trust, and maintaining motivation in the face of challenges. Join us to develop the mindset and skills needed to turn resistance into growth and lead with confidence.
Keywords: Resistance, resilience, educational leadership, ELT leadership
Presenter’s Bio
Beril Ayman Yücel has dedicated 34 years to ELT, serving as an instructor, teacher trainer, textbook writer, and administrator. She holds a B.A. in ELT and an MSc in Educational Sciences from METU. With extensive experience in teacher training and trainer training, she has actively participated in numerous projects both nationally and internationally. Currently, she works as a freelance ELT Consultant and Trainer.
Registration fee:
● TESOL Türkiye LAMSIG members: 0 ₺
● TESOL Türkiye members: 100 ₺
● Non-TESOL Türkiye participants: 200 ₺
Registration Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScajxncvISgtwKj1-64oapCECTRImMNTJXYK00vcBu8Whui7Q/viewform?usp=sharing
Invoice Request Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfb_7U1KjSbFAp9gL0p0spQaxsKjf5oJLSEhXbjY56sEgQcaA/viewform
Registration deadline: 03 March, 2025
Advancing Your Leadership and Management Capacities through Systems Thinking
23.02.2024
LAMSIG invites you to a Hands-on Online Workshop to build upon the content shared by experts in the LAMSIG Biennial on 23 February 2024. The theme is “Advancing Your Leadership and Management Capacities through Systems Thinking”. Please click for details.
Review
Close
TESOL Türkiye - LAMSIG invites you to a Hands-on Online Workshop to build upon the content shared by experts in the LAMSIG Biennial on 23 February 2024. The theme is “Advancing Your Leadership and Management Capacities through Systems Thinking” and we welcome all ELT professionals who are interested in educational management and leadership, learning and professional development.
The event will include three workshops by Assistant Professor Gaye Ceyhan, Boğaziçi University and Meltem Ceylan Alibeyoğlu, Research & Development Coordinator, Darüşşafaka Eğitim Kurumları, Assistant Professor Esra Atilla Bal, Acıbadem University, Psychology Department, and Dr. Deniz Kurtoğlu Eken, Projects, Development and Research Coordinator, Sabancı University, School of Languages. Unlocking the keys to professional excellence, the three dynamic sessions in the workshop offer a comprehensive journey for educators and organizational leaders. We will end our Hands-on Online Workshop with a final session where the highlights of the three workshops will be shared through a whole-group discussion.
Session Abstracts
Session I: Systems Thinking in Professional Practice by Gaye Ceyhan and Meltem Ceylan Alibeyoğlu
This workshop promotes a systems mindset for dealing with complex problems. Systems thinkingis the discipline that utilizes the holistic perspective to help individuals better understandcomplex and dynamic systems and develop/evaluate sustainable solutions. A systems thinkingapproach based on system dynamics helps us see how problems change over time, the structurethat creates the problems, and the factors that influence that structure. This workshop isdesigned to engage participants in the basic principles of systems thinking relevant to theirprofessional fields. The workshop begins with an insightful exploration of Behavior Over TimeGraphs, where participants identify fundamental shifts and milestones on a graph to understandthe change of a variable in their area of expertise. We then delve into Stock and Flow Diagramsto analyze how resources, information, or influences accumulate to shape the professionallandscape. Then, we will explore the Habits of a Systems Thinker and integrate a specificsystems thinking habit into daily work. The workshop concludes by connecting with the Laws ofSystems Thinking, providing a holistic perspective on challenges and solutions. By the end of theworkshop, participants will be able to gain an introductory understanding of key systemsthinking tools and begin to identify habits of systems thinkers that can be integrated into theirwork.
Session II: Maximizing Performance: The Performance Management Process for ELT Leaders and Managers by Esra Bal
The life of every organization depends on successfully setting, evaluating and meeting work relatedgoals. No matter what these goals are, an organization relies on it’s people to achieve those results.Thus, to reach peak performance, it’s essential to maximize the performance of the employees andalign their efforts with the organization’s strategies.
Performance management as a dynamic and on-going process helps organizations achieve work goalsand individuals to focus on high-payoff activities that improve performance. When leaders are able toeffectively review progress toward achieving agreed-upon expectations, they not only strengthen theperformance of the individual, but also the work group and the whole organization. Moreover, asuccessful performance management system can also help increase team engagement andencourage an open dialogue between managers and those they supervise.
In this session, we’ll talk about the crucial components of the performance management processincluding competencies, SMART goals, feedback and development plans. We’ll specifically focus on therole of collecting and assessing behavioural competencies during the performance managementprocess and its crucial role in maximizing performance.
Session III: Qualitative Research to Explore Interconnectedness and Interdependence in School Development by Deniz Kurtoğlu Eken
This workshop is a follow-up on my TESOL Türkiye LAMSIG Biennial Conference plenary, The woodsand the trees: The role of research in school development which focused on the significance ofschool research to foster a holistic approach in leadership and management allowing us to explorethe interconnectedness and interdependence of organizational components. In this follow-upworkshop, we will be zooming into qualitative research which fosters such a holistic approach andwill discuss its key features, common and less common research tools, question types, and dataanalysis procedures. The workshop will be highly interactive and involve group activities whereparticipants will be discussing and designing research questions and tools based on a schooldevelopment area of their choice.
You can find the Event Booklet here.
We look forward to seeing you online on February 23, 2024!
TESOL Türkiye - LAMSIG
Please find below the details about registration:
Please follow the steps to register:
1) If you are a LAMSIG member, please follow the steps below:
a) Login to your account on the TESOL Türkiye website. (https://tesolturkey.net/login)
b) Visit the ‘All Products’ page under ‘Profile’ on the menu at the top. (https://tesolturkey.net/products)
c) Select the product titled "LAMSIG Hands-on Online Workshop” and follow the instruction to complete the payment.
d) Fill out the “Invoice Details Form” here if you want an instutional invoice
2) If you want to attend the training without becoming a member of TESOL Türkiye and LAMSIG, please follow the steps below:
a) Register to the TESOL Türkiye website (https://tesolturkey.net/)
b) Login to your account. (https://tesolturkey.net/login)
c) Visit the ‘All Products’ page under ‘Profile’ on the menu at the top. (https://tesolturkey.net/products)
d) Select the product titled "LAMSIG Hands-on Online Workshop” and follow the instruction to complete the payment.
e) Fill out the “Invoice Details Form” here if you want an instutional invoice.
Registration Fees:
LAMSIG TESOL Türkiye Members: 300
NON-LAMSIG TESOL Türkiye Members: 500
Non-TESOL Türkiye Members: 700
Please note LAMSIG will organize a raffle at the end of the day, offering two participants who attend all three workshops of the training the chance to win notable prizes, including a one-year TESOL Türkiye LAMSIG membership and complimentary access to an upcoming paid LAMSIG event.
Thank you for your interest.
TESOL Türkiye LAMSIG
CONTACT US
LAMSIG Pre-Conference Event 2023
19.10.2023
LAMSIG invites you to the Pre-Conference Event on 19 October, 2023 @13:30. The event welcomes all ELT professionals who are interested in educational management and leadership, learning and professional development. Please click for details.
Review
Close
We are very happy to have Prof. Dr. Neslihan Güney Karaman and Seneca Ryan as our Speakers at the Pre-Conference Event on 19 October, 2023. These two insightful sessions will be followed by a workshop led by LAMSIG Executive Board. Please see the session abstracts below.
If you are a LAMSIG member, please complete your payment through https://tesolturkey.net/products.
Please fill out the form here to ensure a smooth and efficient invoicing process for your event payment.
Registration fee:
● LAMSIG members: ₺75
● Non-LAMSIG TESOL Türkiye members: ₺150
● Non-TESOL Türkiye members: ₺150
Registration deadline: 10 October 2023 midnight.
Please see the guide on how to pay for the event as a NON-MEMBER:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fAMpQz6TXpm7D0CSEaQAJbSCiX9Xzbof/view?usp=sharing
To become a LAMSIG MEMBER:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xjaXVZ1dMQjAmniiYpZ2bPsS-gnbjsHp/view?usp=sharing
Session Abstracts
13.30-14.30 - Plenary by Prof. Dr. Neslihan Güney Karaman
The Role of the Teacher as a Leader in Inclusive Education
Inclusive education is a pedagogical approach that aims to provide equitable and quality education to all students, regardless of their abilities, backgrounds, or differences. The role of the teacher in inclusive education is pivotal in creating a supportive and accommodating learning environment that addresses the diverse needs of students. Teachers as leaders play several crucial roles (Differentiation, Individualized support, Inclusive classroom culture, Collabration, Adapting assesment, Behavioral and Emotional Support, Professional Development, Advocacy) in leading and implementing inclusive education. The role of the teacher-leader in inclusive education is multi-faceted and demands a commitment to understanding, flexibility, and empathy. By embracing the principles of inclusive education, teacher-leaders contribute to creating an educational environment where every student can thrive and reach their full potential.
14.30-15.30 - Workshop led by Seneca Ryan
Designing and Implementing an Inclusive and Culturally Sensitive Professional Development Plan
Ensuring teachers have the knowledge and skills to create inclusive learning environments for all students requires a multidimensional approach. In this brief workshop, participants will explore three dimensions for preparing a teacher professional development program that includes: awareness building, bias training, and cross-cultural immersive practice. Participants will collaboratively reflect on the current needs of teachers in Turkiye and begin outlining a teacher training series that addresses the three dimensions.
16.00-18.00 - Workshop led by LAMSIG Executive Board
Becoming an Inclusive Leader
Schools of Foreign Languages, particularly in English Medium Instruction (EMI) institutions, often comprise diverse instructor populations. Teaching staff may represent a wide variety of groups in terms of nationalities, races, sexes, ages, cultures, even religions. These diverse populations can often be relatively large in comparison to the overall instructional staff of the university, suggesting that SFL leaders must know how to foster a quality-driven organization by establishing and fostering an inclusive organizational culture. Inclusive Leadership enables the effective functioning of diverse work groups in ways that are not sufficiently addressed by other forms of leadership (Randel, et al., 2018). In this Inclusive Leadership workshop, participants will be asked to work out solutions to scenarios illustrated in short vignettes. Vignettes are seen as incomplete short stories that are written to reflect real-life situations in order to encourage discussions and potential solutions to problems where multiple solutions are possible (Jeffries & Maeder, 2005). Vignettes will be presented to workshop participants to elicit their responses on diverse topics (Stravakou & Lozgka, 2018). The Outcome of the workshop is to provide participants with strategies and tools to consider and address relevant issues within their own SFLs.
Thank you for your interest.
LAMSIG
TESOL Türkiye LAMSIG Biennial Conference 2023
09.09.2023
LAMSIG invites you to its Biennial Conference at Acıbadem University on September 9, 2023. The theme is “Systems Thinking in ELT Leadership and Management” and we welcome all ELT professionals who are interested in educational management and leadership. Please click 'Review' for more info.
Review
Close
LAMSIG BIENNIAL CONFERENCE
TESOL Türkiye - LAMSIG invites you to a face-to-face event at Acıbadem University on September 9 (whole day). The event theme is “Systems Thinking in ELT Leadership and Management” and we welcome all ELT professionals who are interested in educational management and leadership. Please click here for the conference booklet.
We are swimming in systems. There are those that impact us: YÖK, YÖKAK, the Ministry of Labor, the educational institutions in which we operate, accrediting bodies, and so on. Then, there are those that we ourselves impact: Curriculum, Assessment, Human Resources, Quality Assurance, Student Services, and so on. However, do we ever stop and think about how the systems in our orbit function – individually and collectively? Do we spend time reflecting on the effectiveness and efficiency of the systems with which we interact on a daily basis? Here is a chance. We are bringing together for one day (September 9) some great systems thinkers from outside the field and within. Come and take part in LAMSIG’s biennial conference at Acibadem University. We promise an informative, thought-provoking, but certainly fun day focused on systems and networking. If you are a current ELT leader or manager – or it is on your career path – then please don’t hesitate to come and see what Systems Thinking, and LAMSIG are all about.
The event will include three plenary talks – The first one by Assistant Professor Gaye Ceyhan, Boğaziçi University and Meltem Ceylan Alibeyoğlu, Research & Development Coordinator, Darüşşafaka Eğitim Kurumları, the second one by Assistant Prof. Esra Bal, Acıbadem University, and the third one by Dr. Deniz Kurtoğlu Eken, Projects, Development and Research Coordinator at Sabancı University, School of Languages. The plenaries will be followed by four micro-presentations related to the theme of the event. The conference will conclude with a lively problem-based interactive session.
We look forward to seeing you in İstanbul, on September 9, 2023!
TESOL Türkiye - LAMSIG
PLENARY by Gaye Ceyhan and Meltem Ceylan Alibeyoğlu
Systems Thinking in Education
Systems thinking is the science that utilizes the holistic perspective to help individuals better understand complex and dynamic systems. A systems thinking approach based on system dynamics helps us to see the change of problems over time, the structure that creates the problems and the factors affecting this structure, and the causal loops within the structure. Managing organizations can be effectively approached using systems thinking approach, which considers the interactions and interdependencies of various components within a system. This approach allows leaders to understand how different divisions or teams within an organization are interconnected and impact one another, ultimately working towards a common goal. Systems thinking allows leaders to see the big picture and focus on maximizing performance within the organization. The aim of this talk is to explore the organization structures through systems thinking practices and system dynamic tools. Participants will be able to briefly explain the systems thinking approach and identify specific interactions in a complex system.
PLENARY by Esra Bal
Linking Organizational Strategy to Performance: The Role of HR Systems
This presentation will focus on the role of Human Resources as a crucial partner that enables the implementation of leadership strategy in an organization. As part of the discussion, main HR functions that leaders need to keep in mind to implement the organization’s vision will be introduced. Among these, especially the role of employee selection, performance management and training and development in linking strategy to effective performance will be highlighted. Also, the case of a higher education institution in Turkey that has started efforts to restructure its HR system will be shared.
PLENARY by Dr. Deniz Kurtoğlu Eken
The woods and the trees: The role of research in school development
Schools are complex learning organizations which need to recognize the complex and adaptive nature of their systems to achieve success and sustainability in their school development practices. A holistic approach in leadership and management helps schools to explore the relationships between different parts of their systems, to focus their attention on the interconnectedness and interdependency of different organizational components, and most importantly, not to miss the woods for the trees. School research plays a key role in these development efforts; it fosters learning and cooperation between school members, promotes ownership of its principles, practices, and initiatives, and offers a kaleidoscope of different viewpoints, perceptions, and experiences. In this session we will be discussing one specific example of how institutional research can allow us to explore both the whole and parts of a concept through the collaborative development of all school members in the process.
Conference Fee:
LAMSIG-Tesol-Türkiye Members: 150 TL
Non-LAMSIG Tesol-Türkiye Members: 250 TL
Non-Tesol-Türkiye Members: 350 TL
(Please complete your payment through https://tesolturkey.net/products and finalize your registration by completing the registration form.)
If you are NOT a member, please click here and complete your payment.
To finalize your registration, please fill out the registration form here.
Thank you for your interest.
Stay tuned for event details.
CONTACT US
Combining Program Evaluation and Research for Transformative Education
09.05.2023
Save the date for LAMSIG's upcoming webinar by Prof. Dr. David Anderson!
Review
Close
In order to truly transform educational practice, “program evaluation” and “research” must be combined into a process that is both inductive and deductive. This can be done through “action research”. Action research is structured to solve an immediate problem of practice, informed by data through an inquiry process of progressive problem solving, and led by individuals working with others as part of a community of practice. Community-based participatory action research (CBPAR) can lead to significant social and educational change.
This webinar will help participants set up the foundation of a CBPAR project: 1) defining a problem of practice, centered on SLOs; and 2) building a conceptual framework which can guide transformative data collection and analysis. Small group activities will encourage and enhance active participation and growth.
LAMSIG Pre-Conference Event
17.03.2022
TESOL Turkey LAMSIG invites you to the Pre-Conference Event on 17 March 2022. The event welcomes all ELT professionals who are interested in educational management and leadership, learning and professional development. Please click for more details.
Review
Close
LAMSIG Pre-Conference Event
TESOL Turkey LAMSIG invites you to the Pre-Conference Event on 17 March 2022. The event welcomes all ELT professionals who are interested in educational management and leadership, learning and professional development. Please see the session abstracts below:
Session Abstracts
Wellbeing in Education: Case Studies from the Workplace, by Melis Abacıoğlu
15.00-16.00
Why do we need wellbeing in schools and why today? In this talk, Melis, founder of Wellbees, an employee wellbeing platform, will take us through personal behavior change as well as organizational change theories finally to land on case studies from the workplace. This talk will help you set up your first steps in your wellbeing programme at school.
Wellbeing for Yourself and Your Staff: Some Practical Tips, by Andy Hockley
16.00-17.00
As academic managers, we have to be conscious of and active in supporting our teachers’ wellbeing. But, we also must be aware of our own. This session will discuss what we mean by wellbeing in this context and also provide some practical activities that you can use to support both yourself and your staff.
The event is free of charge for TESOL Turkey LAMSIG members, and the fee for non-member participants is ₺50. If you are NOT a LAMSIG member, please click here and complete your payment. To finalize your registration, please fill out the registration form here.
Participants will receive a Zoom link prior to the event.
Thank you for your interest.
TESOL Turkey LAMSIG
Accreditation - The Bigger Questions Answered
20.01.2022
As TESOL Turkey LAMSIG, we organized a Panel focusing on Accreditation.
Review
Close
As TESOL Turkey LAMSIG, we organized a Panel focusing on Accreditation.
We revisited the accreditation topic with the pros on January 20, 2022 at 7 pm (GMT+3).
Accreditation: The Big Questions Answered
16.12.2021
As TESOL Turkey LAMSIG, we organized a Panel focusing on Accreditation.
Review
Close
Accreditation: The Bigger Questions Answered / Jan 20, 2022 @19.00
As TESOL Turkey LAMSIG, we organized a Panel focusing on Accreditation.
TESOL Turkey LAMSIG Annual General Meeting
09.09.2021
As TESOL Turkey LAMSIG, we had our first annual general meeting online. We welcomed new colleagues to the board, we reflected on the events and activities of the last academic year, and we looked forward together to advance effective leadership and management in ELT in Turkey and beyond
Review
Close
As TESOL Turkey LAMSIG, we had our first annual general meeting online. We welcomed new colleagues to the board, we reflected on the events and activities of the last academic year, and we looked forward together to advance effective leadership and management in ELT in Turkey and beyond
Self-Reflection on Mentoring and Coaching Training: What is my next move as a leader?
26.05.2021
TESOL Turkey LAMSIG organized a panel event featuring the holders of Mentoring and Coaching Course scholarship. The panelists reflected on the experience and shared their takeaways. We hosted ELT professionals and TESOL Turkey members interested in effective leadership and mentoring in institutional
Review
Close
Self-Reflection on Mentoring and Coaching Training: What is my next move as a leader? / May 26, 2021 @17.30
TESOL Turkey LAMSIG organized a panel event featuring the holders of Mentoring and Coaching Course scholarship. The panelists reflected on the experience and shared their takeaways. We hosted ELT professionals and TESOL Turkey members interested in effective leadership and mentoring in institutionalized contexts.
Scholarships for Coaching and Mentoring
15.03.2021
TESOL Turkey LAMSIG in association with Pearson Türkiye offered five scholarships for members to participate in a one-month online course on coaching & mentoring given by RK Academy, which is accredited by the EMCC Global.
Review
Close
Scholarships for Coaching and Mentoring
Deadline for Applications: March 15, 2021
TESOL Turkey LAMSIG in association with Pearson Türkiye offered five scholarships for members to participate in a one-month online course on coaching & mentoring given by RK Academy, which is accredited by the EMCC Global.
LAMSIG Pre-Conference Event
25.02.2021
As TESOL Turkey LAMSIG, we organized a pre-conference event on February 25th that included various events such as a plenary session and panel focusing particularly on leadership and management issues in ELT.
Review
Close
As TESOL Turkey LAMSIG, we organized a pre-conference event on February 25th that included various events such as a plenary session and panel focusing particularly on leadership and management issues in ELT.
Leadership in times of Covid19
12.11.2020
Our first webinar looked at how clear and effective leadership could be so important during the pandemic. What such leadership involved and how we could make the space for ourselves to act as true leaders.
Review
Close
Leadership in times of Covid19
November 12, 2020 @12.00
Our first webinar looked at how clear and effective leadership could be so important during the pandemic. What such leadership involved and how we could make the space for ourselves to act as true leaders.