TEASIG & LASIG Joint Pre-Conference Event 2026

Peggy Candas is a lecturer in language didactics at the University of Strasbourg and the current deputy director of the research unit Linguistique, Langues, Parole (LiLPa, UR 1339). Her research focuses on learner autonomy and autonomisation, the support language teachers provide, and the obstacles that can hinder this process. Together with Pia Acker, she is in charge of the Pôle Lansad within the Faculty of Languages and has led the development of a new range of language courses for non-specialist students, based on a skills-based approach and assessment aligned with CEFR levels.

Maria Davou, born and raised in Athens, Greece, is a school owner, teacher, trainer, researcher, author, and storyteller. She holds a BA in Philosophy, Cambridge DELTA, an MA in TESOL, and has studied for a PhD in Applied Linguistics. With over 30 years of experience in teaching, teacher training, and syllabus design in Greece, the UK, and the US, she promotes alternative, experiential teaching approaches. Maria is an international trainer, adjunct professor at HAEC and the University of West Macedonia, co-founder of QUALIFY, founder of Glossobooks, and researches SLA, Critical Pedagogy, and Inquiry-based Learning.

Elena Borsetto holds a PhD in Educational Linguistics from Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, Italy. She is currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Verona, where she conducted a thematic analysis of the CEFR Companion Volume (2020) and related literature as part of a national research project entitled ‘European Language Centres: a multilingual community of practice. A multimodal analysis of scientific, cultural and social growth conveyed through the language of websites’. Elena also works as a teacher trainer and language consultant on professional development courses for academic staff, and she serves as an adjunct professor.

Maria Alafogianni studied English at the University of Westminster and Classical and Modern Greek Studies at King’s College London. She completed her CELTA at International House London and pursued postgraduate studies in ELT at Thames Valley University and the Chartered Institute of Linguists. She also holds an MSc in Counselling and Positive Psychology. With over 30 years of experience in the ELT field, Maria has worked as a tutor, teacher trainer, freelance translator, academic and career guidance counsellor, oral examiner, and coordinator for OFQUAL-regulated awarding bodies.

Elaine Rudduck is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in training, assessment, and awarding. As Head of Standards at VTCT, she leads quality assurance, assessment, processing, and functional skills. She collaborates closely with education providers, industry partners, and government bodies to uphold rigorous standards across the sector. A strong advocate for communication skills, Elaine has made significant contributions to ESOL curriculum and assessment development, drawing on extensive expertise gained through both current and previous leadership roles.