This presentation will 1) illustrate the development and evaluation of a framework for adapting health research co-design into an online environment, and 2) show examples of its application to co-designing two community-based physical activity interventions.
The initial framework was developed by synthesising co-design principles described in the literature, and aligning strategies amenable to an online setting. The framework was evaluated via a mixed-methods design using surveys and semi-structured interviews with nine participants. Evaluation data (46 survey responses, and eight semi-structured interviews) were analysed using descriptive statistics and reflexive thematic analysis to further refine the framework.
The final framework is titled "Partnership-focussed Principles-driven Online co-Design (P-POD)". Survey data indicated that a co-design process using the P-POD framework was satisfying, engaging, and adhered to the co-design principles identified in the literature: a) Inclusive: valuing difference; b) Respectful: equitable partnership; c) Supporting participation; d) Goal directed: person & process. Themes derived from interview data describe 1) a respectful and collaborative online culture, 2) valuing of diverse perspectives and space for healthy debate, 3) how power was perceived as being shared but not equal, and 4) multiple definitions of success within and beyond the process. Application of the P-POD framework to two online co-design projects "CirqAll: Preschool Circus for Premmies" and "Coaching Essentials: Premature Children in Sport", has resulted in successful design of two community-based physical activity interventions led by physiotherapists for children born preterm.
The P-POD framework provides evidence-informed guidance for facilitating co-design online. Used successfully in two physiotherapist-led co-design projects, and showing evidence of adherence to co-design principles, positive participant experiences, and goal achievement for both the project and the participants, the P-POD framework may be used and evaluated within future intervention or service design in online settings.
Involving end-users and other key stakeholders in the design of interventions is a crucial step to reducing the knowledge-to-practice gap and improving uptake of healthcare initiatives, as well as having ethical implications whereby people have a say in the research that affects them. However, there are essential considerations when undertaking research co-design to ensure it is authentic. Tokenistic or ill-defined approaches can create distrust, and may damage the foundational culture of co-design. The P-POD framework provides clear guidance for authentically conducting health research co-design in an online environment, and may be used by physiotherapy clinician-researchers when designing interventions.
online method
community-based physical activity interventions
