ASPIRE-to-excellence: A framework for developing innovative and inspirational approaches to health professions education

This article describes a framework to assist individuals and teams who prepare for (or are engaged in) health professions education innovations. The four essential elements are Needs Assessment, Planning, Implementation and Programme Evaluation. Each element is described in detail with a series of questions to contemplate, and to ensure that all key steps are sufficiently covered. While it is helpful to use this process at the beginning of a project, it will be necessary to develop a continuing cycle of reflection. Needs change and a rapid quality improvement cycle will help maintain relevance and thus effectiveness. It will promote dissemination to inspire educators at the same or other institutions. The four-element framework was developed by the ASPIRE-to-Excellence Award Panel and Academy Section for Innovative and Inspirational Approaches to Health Professions Education (I&I). Examples from 11 awardees from four continents are provided. They illustrate innovative and inspirational work that can stimulate more progress in the field.