Participatory Design Approach in the Use of Scenario Analysis for Futureproofing Medical Education: Case Study.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Health Professions Education
• Foresight Research

Background:

• Medical education must adapt to global megatrends like climate change and technological advancements.
• Future healthcare professionals need novel competencies beyond digital literacy.
• Evolving student expectations and job markets necessitate adaptable educational institutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand the implications of global megatrends for medical education.
• To explore scenario analysis as a tool for medical curriculum design.

Main Methods:

• Participatory design workshop at a School of Medicine.
• Scenario analysis using digital connectivity and climate change as key drivers.
• Thematic analysis of insights from educators, policymakers, clinicians, and students.

Main Results:

• Identified essential competencies: complex adaptive systems thinking, patient-centeredness, continuous learning, participatory health.
• Highlighted key mindsets: sustainability, prevention-focused care, technological adaptability.
• Emphasized need for interdisciplinary collaboration, ethical leadership, and curriculum flexibility.

Conclusions:

• Participatory design effectively shapes medical education for global megatrends.
• Findings support integrating sustainability, digital health, and emotional intelligence into curricula.
• Provides a framework for medical schools to proactively reform education for future challenges.