Coproduction in medical education during the COVID-19 pandemic: Critical components of successful curricular reform

Abstract

The current coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has greatly affected medical education in unanticipated ways. By introducing the concept of educational coproduction at our institution, we have maintained a flexible and productive curricular environment for all students. The notion of coproduction acknowledges that education is a service that requires recognition of the expertise that both the teacher and the learner bring to the table, in the context of their community and society writ large. Using the coproduction framework allowed for increased communication and improved partnerships among students, educators, clinicians and our community as well as adaptations to a rapidly changing educational environment. Embracing the idea of coproduction is a valuable concept for institutions to consider during this time and in the future post-pandemic period.