Welcome to Distance Learning Center!
The STEMPREP project at Distance Learning Center is producing the next generation of minority researchers via an early start model (7th grade), a longitudinal training regimen (10 years) and a multi-institutional mentorship approach (10 sites). For the last 19 years, Distance Learning Center has utilized this revolutionary training paradigm to generate a cadre of trainees eligible for post-baccalaureate programs at the nation’s elite graduate schools, medical schools and engineering schools.
Traditional 20th century educational models have offered short-term training and enrichment to attract youth to scientific endeavors, but have had poor retention and yield, particularly among minorities. A longitudinal training philosophy similar to what is used for preparing Olympic athletes – one that places junior high scholars in a training continuum, nurtures their natural curiosity and enriches their educational experiences – has been employed by Distance Learning Center with phenomenal success. This innovative 21st century training paradigm is generating new researchers for medicine, science, technology, engineering and math from minority population groups which have historically been underrepresented in the STEM research arena.
Our most lauded program is the Physician Scientist Training Program (PSTP), which is driven by a longitudinal training model that supports a national pool of minority child prodigies across a ten year regimen (7th grade through the college senior year), and a multi-institutional approach that rotates these whiz kids through basic science labs in academia, the NIH and the pharmaceutical industry.