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Language associations and collaborative support: language teacher associations as empowering spaces for professional networks

The LACS project (Language Associations and Collaborative Support) marked the first major cooperation between the European Centre for Modern Languages (ECML) and the Fédération Internationale des Professeurs de Langues Vivantes/International Federation of Language Teacher Associations (FIPLV). This article focuses on one aspect of the project, namely an exploration of issues affecting language teacher associations worldwide. It describes the research carried out into the associations' perceptions of their functions, the challenges they face and the strategies they are employing to address these challenges. Following an exploration of related literature, which provided a framework for analysis, the article describes the research methodology employed and then presents and discusses the data. In response to the challenges of sustaining membership and influencing policy, language teacher associations are seen to be developing new spaces, in which multidimensional networks can develop, and which can be of continuing relevance both internally to members and to external bodies. The article concludes by drawing on theories of space, arguing that it is through the shift from normative structures to more dynamic and flexible networks and spaces that associations are learning to cope with changes in the nature of professionalism associated with postmodernity.