Related Experiment Videos
A medical school fellowship program for minority high school students
A L Acker1, J D Freeman, D M Williams
1Louisiana State University Medical Center in Shreveport.
Journal of Medical Education
|March 1, 1988
Summary
This study evaluated a research program for minority high school students. While the program influenced career decisions for some participants, black male students remained underrepresented.
Area of Science:
- Health Disparities
- Science Education
- Minority Health
Background:
- A research program for minority high school students was established in 1982.
- The program received funding from the National Institutes of Health.
- The evaluation covered a five-year period following the program's inception.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effectiveness of a research program for minority high school students.
- To determine the program's impact on participants' career choices in science and medicine.
- To analyze demographic representation within the program's applicant and participant pools.
Main Methods:
- The study analyzed data from 59 applicants and 38 participants over five years.
- A survey was conducted among 20 responding participants.
- Career plans and program influence were assessed through respondent self-reports.
Main Results:
- Of 20 respondents, 12 indicated pursuing careers in science and medicine.
- Half of the 16 respondents with career plans reported program influence.
- Black male students were consistently underrepresented compared to the general metropolitan high school population in both applications and participation.
Conclusions:
- The research program showed some success in influencing participants towards science and medicine careers.
- Underrepresentation of black male students in the program highlights a persistent issue in STEM outreach.
- Further efforts are needed to ensure equitable participation and address diversity gaps in STEM pipeline programs.