Medical education for the future generation - why you should listen to students' voices: Insights from the AMEE symposium.

Abstract

Introduction: Healthcare providers are confronted with an increasingly diverse population with different attitudes towards medical care. Medical education has recognized this by including principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Student involvement is essential for creating inclusive curricula and can prevent them from losing motivation for their future profession. Methods: This article is a thematic summary of the AMEE 2024 symposium "Medical Education for the Future Generation - Why You Should Listen to Students' Voices". Data was collected from the panellists' statements and audience contributions. Using Braun and Clarke's approach, the authors performed a thematic analysis to identify key themes, independently reviewed data, and reached consensus on themes through group discussion. Results: Three main themes could be identified related to curriculum development in health professions education: Inclusivity, open-mindedness, and the integration of the young generation. Students should be empowered to engage as key stakeholders and should become co-creators of knowledge. Discussion: Inclusive education aims to equip future healthcare professionals with the competencies to provide optimal care for all patients, regardless of background. Empowering students to contribute meaningfully to curriculum changes and co-create knowledge strengthens the learning environment. Involvement of students and non-traditional educators shifts the paradigm towards co-creation.