Learner involvement in the co-creation of teaching and learning: AMEE Guide No. 138

Abstract

This AMEE guide aims to emphasize the value of active learner involvement in the design and development of education, referred to as co-creation, and provides practical tips for medical educators interested in implementing co-created educational initiatives at their own institutions. Starting with definitions of co-creation and related terms, we then describe its benefits and summarize the literature in medical and higher education to provide an appropriate context and a shared mental model for health professions educators across the world. Potential challenges and barriers to implementation of co-creation in practice are described in detail from the perspective of learners, teachers, and institutions. Challenges are linked to relevant principles of Self-Determination Theory, Positioning Theory and theory on Psychological Safety, to provide direction and fundamental reasons for implementation of co-creation. Finally, solutions to listed challenges and practical approaches to education design and implementation using co-creation are described in detail. These tips include strategies for supporting learners and teachers in the process, enhancing the collaboration between them, and ensuring appropriate support at the organizational level.

Keywords:

• Teaching & learning
• roles of teacher
• instructional design
• co-creation
• student support

Disclosure statement

The authors have no declarations of interest to report. The authors are responsible for the content and writing of the article.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Karen D. Könings

Karen D. Könings, PhD is psychologist and Associate Professor in the Department of Educational Development and Research and the School of Health Professions Education, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences at Maastricht University and Honorary Professor at the School of Health Sciences at University of East Anglia.

Serge Mordang

Serge Mordang, MSc is psychologist and PhD student in the Department of Educational Development and Research and the School of Health Professions Education, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences at Maastricht University.

Frank Smeenk

Frank Smeenk, PhD, MD is pulmonologist and Dean at the Catharina Hospital Eindhoven and Professor at the School of Health Professions Education, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences at Maastricht University.

Laurents Stassen

Laurents Stassen, PhD, MD is surgeon, chief of surgical training and Professor at the School of Health Professions Education, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences at Maastricht University.

Subha Ramani

Subha Ramani, MBBS, PhD, FAMEE is general internist and Director, Program for Research, Innovation and Scholarship in Education, Department of Medicine & Director of Scholars in Medical Education Pathway, Internal Medicine Residency Program at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital; and Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA.