Optimum Learning, Inc.

Optimum Learning, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation based in Memphis, Tennessee, is dedicated to fostering an environment where individuals of all ages and skill levels can explore their capabilities and interests and develop their full intellectual and human potential.  Through research, education and outreach, Optimum Learning strives to advance knowledge, promote understanding, and serve the underserved.  With the support of in-kind services, donations and grants, Optimum Learning offers services at no cost to the greater Memphis community.  As Optimum Learning continues to expand, it will ultimately evolve into a self-sustained income-generating organization.

Optimum Learning was conceived by Monroe Ballard, owner of Optimum Studios, a minority-owned multi-media production company located in the heart of the inner city.  As a community leader, foster parent and concerned citizen and with many years of service to youth in Memphis and Shelby County, Ballard created Optimum Learning in 1999 to give young people an opportunity to learn marketable media production skills that could lead the way to self-sufficiency, gainful employment and higher self-esteem. Using his own funds, assets, and social networks, Ballard instituted a Media Production Program that provided youth with training that can transfer to marketable skills in video production, editing, photography, computer technology, website design, and graphic design.  Graduates of the Media Production Program over the last 10 years have gone on to be employed in information technology departments of prestigious corporations, like Fed Ex, Flextronics Systems and Walgreens.  Two graduates have subsequently established their own companies to design computer graphics and manage information systems.

Optimum Learning Multimedia Program (OLMP)
Optimum Learning Multimedia Program (OLMP) is a comprehensive real-world course in multimedia production.   Students have a unique opportunity to learn the ins and outs of video production, audio production, photography, graphic design, marketing and performing from successful working professionals using the latest state-of-the-art equipment.  Through lecture, critique and hands-on production work, OLMP provides students with valuable and marketable skills required for entry-level positions in production.   While the main goal of the program is to provide students a comprehensive overview of production, OLPM offers so much more.  Students have the opportunity to learn from, and interact with, working professionals and receive real-world experience and wisdom.  As production crew members, students are be required to be dependable, communicate effectively, and contribute constructively to the whole; skills which will serve them well in all aspects of their lives.  Through the acquisition of knowledge, exposure to wisdom and practical experience, OLMP endeavors to open the minds of students to the broad range of possibilities and build confidence levels, inside and outside the classroom.  Optimum Studios will continue to be the main supporter, and advocate for Optimum Learning.  The Optimum Studios facility is a real-world environment that offers practical applications unavailable in strictly academic institutions.  In addition to providing, production space, equipment and expertise, Optimum Studios will also provide recruitment assistance and offer participants a myriad of business and community networking opportunities.  Optimum Learning Multimedia Program is funded through in-kind services, donations and grants and plans to offer services free of charge to the community.  Future plans include seeking addition means to generate income to help OLMP become self-sustaining program. 

The Curriculum
Multimedia Program students are exposed to a comprehensive media production curriculum.  The current course offerings are A/V Production, Photography, Digital Arts and Marketing, and In Front of the Camera.  Additional courses will be added as needed.  Through lecture, critique, field trips and hands-on production work and with the aid of instructors and guest speakers students have access to different points of view and a wide range of experiences. 
As in most disciplines, the more experience one has in video production the more able one is to be more creative, use the technology to its fullest, and better adapt to the frequently unpredictable situations that occur in production.  Therefore, we encourage students to return for multiple sessions to become more proficient in there chosen disciplines.  Advanced students, in addition to being offered internships, will have individualized independent studies designed to help them polish their skills.