Dear colleagues,

The 27th Annual Conference of the International Association of Medical Science Educators (IAMSE) was held June 9th – 13th, 2023, in magnificent Cancun, Mexico. The location for the meeting was truly splendid. The JW Marriott Resort & Spa, with its conference space and amenities, presented conference attendees the opportunity to find joy in work and leisure.

The 27th Annual Conference brought 683 colleagues and friends, hailing from 26 countries, together for an opportunity to connect around our conference theme, "Teaching & Learning in Health Sciences: Linking Current Theory to Practice." Of those present, 246 were first time attendees, and 111 were students.

Our conference theme highlighted IAMSE’s mission to ensure that teaching and learning in the health professions continues to be firmly grounded in foundational sciences and the best practices of teaching. Our plenary speakers, each with their own expertise in teaching and learning, informed and challenged our perspectives relative to current theory and practice. First, Ricardo León-Bórquez from the World Federation for Medical Education discussed principles-based standards for evaluating medical education, globally. Next, Anique de Bruin from Maastricht University explored the impact of effort when encountering desirable difficulties in learning. Later, Michelle Daniel from the University of California San Diego elucidated relationships between theories of cognition and diagnostic error. Finally, Kara Caruthers from Meharry Medical College described the history and roles of Physician Assistants in health professions education.

In addition to the plenary presentations, attendees enjoyed engaging with peers and being informed on the latest developments in the field. In total, 91 live presentations were offered during the meeting, including 10 pre-conference courses, 30 oral presentations, and 40 focus sessions, unique to IAMSE. In addition, over 200 posters detailing novel, previously unpublished work were presented.

The meeting was also a time of celebration, as we honored colleagues for their outstanding work in health professions education. Notably, Dr. Amina Sadik from Touro University Nevada was awarded the Distinguished Career Award for Excellence in Teaching and Educational Scholarship, and Dr. Stefanie Attardi from Oakland University was awarded the Early Career Award for Excellence in Teaching and Innovation. Finally, Dr. Bruce Newton from Campbell University was awarded the Edward Patrick Finnerty Lifetime Achievement Award for his dedication to education and service.

In closing and on behalf of the 2023 Program Committee, I would like to thank the attendees for making the 27th Annual Meeting a truly meaningful conference experience. I hope that your attendance leads to innovation in the way you teach and learn. I look forward to collaborating with you at the 28th Annual Meeting in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA on June 15th – 18th, 2024.

Sincerely,

Amber J. Heck, PhD

2023 Chair of the IAMSE Program Planning Committee