A total of 13 Merck Fellows participated in the program in 1997-98. Prospective Merck Fellows apply to the program after completing several teacher preparation courses and at least one field placement. Applications include letters of recommendation, personal statements, resumes, and transcripts. These are reviewed by a committee of faculty from the applicant's college or University and the staff of the Merck Institute. The committee recommends candidates to the Institute's director, who makes the final selections.
Fellows receive a stipend for their participation.
In general, all of the Fellows are knowledgeable about computers and educational technology. To prepare them to engage in the Leader Teacher Institute, Merck Fellows spend one full week prior to the Institute assisting in the classroom of a Leader Teacher. This week provides an opportunity to observe students engaged in inquiry-centered science and mathematics lessons. Following participation in the summer session of the Leader Teacher Institute, the Merck Fellows have a second field placement. At this time, they are able to be more actively engaged in instruction, including planning and teaching their own lessons.