“Surviving and Thriving: Education in Times of Change”

In 2017, IAFOR education conferences in Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America have brought together delegates from around the world to consider the theme of “Educating for Change” from a variety of different perspectives and approaches, taking full advantage of the international make-up of the attendees and the huge diversity of experiences. A recurring theme throughout the conferences was the reference to the future, be it immediate or longer term, as being uncertain; the natural resilience and optimism was counterbalanced by both apprehension; with hope also came fear.

In this period of great global political and economic instability, rising inequality and social unrest, the role of education within society has never been more important, but never more vulnerable. This brings us to our conference theme for 2018, which references these inherent vulnerabilities in both educational systems and the individual students and teachers, as well as the necessary resilience needed to not only survive, but also thrive.

How do we teachers, administrators and policymakers adopt and adapt to change outside our control? How do we nurture and encourage positive change, through the excitement of the imagination, innovation and creativity? How can technologies be better used to help us teach, and to help students learn? How do we sustain and manage change? How can we react positively to negative change? How can we, our institutions and our students survive and thrive in these times of change?

The European Conference on Language Learning 2018 (ECLL2018) will be held alongside The European Conference on Education 2018 (ECE2018). Registration for either conference will allow delegates to attend sessions in the other.

In conjunction with our Global Partners, including the University of Sussex and Birkbeck, University of London, we look forward to extending you a warm welcome in 2018.

The ECLL2018 Organising Committee

Professor Anne Boddington, University of Brighton, UK
Professor Jean-Marc Dewaele, Birkbeck, University of London, UK
Professor Brian Hudson, University of Sussex, UK
Professor Kwame Akyeampong, University of Sussex, UK
Professor Barbara Lockee, Virginia Tech., USA
Professor Steve Cornwell, The International Academic Forum (IAFOR) & Osaka Jogakuin University, Japan
Dr Joseph Haldane, The International Academic Forum (IAFOR), Japan

Key Information
  • Venue & Location: The Jurys Inn Brighton Waterfront, Brighton, UK
  • Dates: Friday, June 29, 2018 ​to Sunday, July 01, 2018
  • Conference Theme: “Surviving and Thriving: Education in Times of Change”
  • Early Bird Abstract Submission Deadline: February 15, 2018*
  • Final Abstract Submission Deadline: April 16, 2018
  • Registration Deadline for Presenters: May 16, 2018

*Submit early to take advantage of the discounted registration rates. Learn more about our registration options.


About Brighton

The International Academic Forum’s European Conference Series is based in the vibrant city of Brighton in the UK. From iconic tourist spots to beachfront cool, Brighton is crammed full of things to see and do. Boasting a cultural heritage that includes the Royal Pavilion, Regency architecture and Victorian aquariums plus the seaside attractions of Brighton Pier, the Brighton Wheel and the famous pebble beach, Brighton offers something to delight each and every visitor.