Karolinska Prize recognises worldwide impact

Professor Ronald Harden has been awarded the Karolinska Instituet Prize for Research in Medical Education, recognised internationally as the most prestigious award in the field of medical education.

Professor Harden is the Director of Education with the International Virtual Medical School (IVIMEDS). He recently travelled to the Nobel Forum in Stockholm to receive the Prize, which recognises his major contribution to research in medical education.

The Karolinska Instituet Prize Committee described Professor Harden as an innovative researcher and a prolific thinker.

"His ideas have been tested and put into effect in medical schools around the world," they said.

"He has made, and continues to make, outstanding contributions to the broad field of medical education, particularly in the areas of assessment methods, curriculum design, and evidence- and information-technology based medical education."

"His scientific work has promoted excellence in medical education worldwide."

Professor Harden said, "I am proud and honoured to be chosen to receive this award which recognises not just my own work but that of the many colleagues who have worked with me and supported me over the years."

In his role of Director of Education with IVIMEDS - a worldwide partnership of leading medical schools and institutions developing e-learning in medical education - Professor Harden is committed to developing new approaches to medical education, curriculum planning and to teaching and learning.

The Karolinksa Prize is the latest in a long list of awards that recognise Professor Harden's international impact. He was awarded an OBE by the Queen in 2003 and the 'Mentoring, Innovation and Leadership in Education Scholarship (MILES) for 'outstanding contributions to the advancement of global medical education and academic medicine' in 2006.