Tomas Hjelström the first recipient of the SSE Pedagogical Award

Marie Ehrling handing over the award to Tomas Hjelström.

The prize is part of an ongoing effort to further highlight the importance of good pedagogy for SSE. Here we are rewarding a teacher who during a long period of time has great pedagogical achievements, says professor Pär Åhlström, Vice President Degree Programs.  

Tomas Hjelström, you are the first recipient of this award. How does it make you feel?

I am very proud. It is an honor to be recognized in this way and particularly so when it is the first time the award is presented. We have many good pedagogues at the school which is something that we should acknowledge. Most importantly, I think that it is fantastic that we eventually have a price for what is happening in the teaching and learning domain. Education is a core part of what happens at a business school”, says Tomas Hjelström.  

What makes your learning approach so successful?

I think that there are a couple of things that are necessary. This centers around subject knowledge and structure when it comes to conveying a message and understanding to participants at all levels. However, with subject knowledge we must also include knowledge about what pedagogical approaches that are suitable in what situations. The match between the two is crucial. I think that I am quite flexible in that approach.

Moreover, passion for both teaching and learning in general but for the participants is something that I always emphasize. Participants must be seen at all points in time.

And finally, dare to try new things. It might not be the right thing, but it is about your own development. We accept that we should develop in research so why not in teaching? Then you must also be brave enough to say no once we have tried. We are not always successful, and it is OK to fail sometime as long as we do it for the right reasons.  

What do you like to do when you are not at the Stockholm School of Economics?

I am a sports fan and have been devoted sports for young people, focusing on handball. Having the privilege to work with children and young people is important, not least in one’s educational development, as you learn so much from explaining to individuals who have their own views on things but who have not fully developed all their talents. In a certain perspective, we are all children when it comes to a learning situation and then it is important for us pedagogues to have that perspective.