Isak Sandlund named Teacher of the Year
His guiding principle is to show commitment and care for both his subject and his students. The university's students have named Isak Sandlund, a doctoral student in environmental science, Teacher of the Year 2025.
Isak Sandlund. Photo: Anna Sällberg
“I am incredibly grateful to my wonderful students who thought I deserved this award. It motivates me to continue doing my utmost to provide students with an educational, engaging, and safe learning environment. I would also like to thank my colleagues in the environmental science group for their unwavering support and wise input, which improves the teaching," says Isak Sandlund.
Inspired to develop his methods
He works as a doctoral student in environmental science with a focus on environmental psychology. In his studies, he investigates, among other things, the cognitive processes behind environmental assessments. He also teaches students in environmental psychology, statistics, and scientific methods.
"For me, this award means that what I do both inside and outside the classroom counts. It also means that, as a relatively new teacher, I feel more confident that my ideas about teaching both work and are perceived as rewarding by the students. It inspires me to further develop my methods!"
The Teacher of the Year award is presented by the Gefle Student Union every year, and it is the university's students who nominate teachers they think should receive the award. The Teacher of the Year is also honoured at the Academic Ceremony, which takes place this year on April 17.
How would you describe your educational philosophy?
"The most important thing for me is that students experience the University as a place where learning goes hand in hand with research, and that their education and knowledge can make the world a better place. Learning works best when students feel that what they are learning is important and that it matters when they get involved.
Isak believes it is important to continuously follow up on teaching, and he usually gives students the opportunity to reinforce their learning through various quizzes and small assignments to be completed during the course.
What is most important to you when meeting with students?
"Students should see that I care about their development and that their learning is enjoyable for both of us. I often go beyond what is required of me to ensure this, for example by scheduling extra sessions when student groups express a need for them, or providing personal guidance when necessary. I do my best, and then the students want to do their best too."
Text: Anna Sällberg
Reasons given by students:
“He has an incredibly good teaching approach. It's clear that he wants us students to learn something after his lectures, with a lot of thought behind his PowerPoint presentations. Quite simply, my favorite teacher! “
“A teacher with an incredible understanding of us students. He also shows interest in his own subjects and puts a lot of thought into his lectures and assignments!”
“Isak is a teacher who really makes a difference. He explains things clearly and effectively and sees each student as an individual. We can tell that he cares about his students' development and well-being, and that means a lot.”
“Attentive, understanding, and helpful. Educational lectures and well-planned courses. A teacher who understands how it should be done! Go Isak!”
Sidan uppdaterades 2026-03-20