> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://edehr.gitbook.io/edehr-compass/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://edehr.gitbook.io/edehr-compass/community/community-engagement.md).

# Community Engagement

## Building a Shared Resource Together

EdEHR Compass is designed to be more than a static reference guide — it's intended to grow and improve through contributions from educators, administrators, and institutions across British Columbia and beyond. This page explains how the community engagement model works and how you can get involved.

## Why Community Matters

The long-term vision for EdEHR Compass is a community-maintained resource where educators across institutions share knowledge, best practices, educational materials, patient cases, and clinical simulations. Without ongoing contributions from the broader community, Compass risks becoming a snapshot in time rather than a living, evolving resource.

That said, Compass is designed to be sustainable even with modest community participation. The BCIT governance team maintains it as a curated resource, but it becomes significantly richer as more institutions contribute their experiences and expertise.

## How to Contribute

### GitBook Contributions

Community members can propose and submit content improvements through a structured process:

1. Create a GitBook account and request access
2. Receive onboarding on documentation standards
3. Discuss major proposals in designated planning channels
4. Create or edit content using GitBook's editor
5. Submit for review before publication

All contributions are reviewed by the governance team to ensure quality, accuracy, and appropriate generalization across institutional contexts.

### Case Builder Track

There is a specialized pathway for educators who create patient scenarios and clinical simulations within EdEHR. Submitted cases go through a peer review process that evaluates educational value, clinical accuracy, technical implementation, and accessibility.

This is a meaningful way for educators to contribute directly to the shared case library, helping other institutions benefit from proven educational scenarios.

## Community Guidelines

The community operates under an established framework that includes:

* A **code of conduct** setting expectations for respectful, productive collaboration
* **Content standards** ensuring consistency and quality across contributions
* A **recognition system** providing attribution on contributed pages

## Communication Channels

Establishing a dedicated community communication platform has been an active area of work. The team is exploring several options to support ongoing discussion and collaboration:

* A **community forum** for sharing and discussion, developed in coordination with EdEHR Technologies
* **EdEHR Technologies' Slack workspace** as a near-term communication channel for contributors and institutional partners

The contribution infrastructure (GitBook workflows, guidelines, code of conduct, peer review processes) is fully built and functions independently of any single communication platform. Regardless of which communication solution is ultimately adopted, the pathways for contributing to Compass remain available.

## Getting Started

Barriers to entry have been kept deliberately low. EdEHR Compass is freely accessible, and the contribution pathway is fully documented. Whether you want to suggest a small correction, contribute a case study, or share implementation lessons from your institution, there is a place for your input.

The governance team monitors community engagement through key indicators reviewed at each semi-annual meeting, including active community members, contribution submissions, institutional participation, and growth in the case library.

## Key Takeaways

* **EdEHR Compass welcomes contributions** from educators, administrators, and institutions across the post-secondary sector.
* **A structured contribution process** through GitBook ensures quality and consistency.
* **The Case Builder Track** provides a specialized pathway for educators creating clinical simulations.
* **Community guidelines and a code of conduct** set clear expectations for participation.
* **Communication infrastructure** is actively being developed, with options including a community forum and Slack workspace.
* **You don't need to be an expert** to contribute — even small improvements and corrections are valuable.


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