Using Give-Get Grids to Evaluate Community-Engaged Interprofessional Education Partnerships

Including community partners in interprofessional education (IPE) activities for health care trainees can engage students in learning experiences that engender an authentic appreciation for serving community health needs. Although such endeavors aim for mutual benefit for all participating partners, tools to assess the value of engagement with community partners could enhance transparency and follow-through for assessing the benefits of participation for the community partners.

Based on a give-get grid used to describe participants' expectations relative to IPE experiences, we developed a gave-got grid. It was used to evaluate community partners' experiences and outcomes after engaging in community-academic partnerships.

Initial give-get grids completed by community partners were used to develop a gave-got grid, which served as a template for interviewing key community partner leaders after receipt of the project deliverable. Qualitative interviews were conducted and evaluated for common themes.

Four community partners completed gave-got interviews and noted that their contributions to the IPE program were substantial and acceptable in relation to their gains. They identified valuable participation outcomes, including fresh perspectives on their organizations' work, inspiration from diverse health professions trainees, trainees' expertise in bettering their community's health, and receiving essential deliverables for their community populations.

Developing transparent aims that clearly outline what each community partner will give and what they hope to receive before engaging students in a learning experience can be mutually beneficial in developing community partnerships for Interprofessional Education. Such practices can enhance mutual understanding, respect, and responsiveness among health care trainees, community organizations, and their constituents.