Project-based learning (PBL) is an instructional approach in which students gain knowledge and skills by actively exploring complex questions, problems, and challenges over time. At The Katherine Institute, this approach is implemented through Project-Based Learning Simulations, which place students in realistic academic, economic, and problem-solving scenarios that require sustained planning, execution, collaboration, and reflection while remaining engaging, motivating, and enjoyable for students.

Each simulation is designed to run for approximately one month, allowing students to immerse themselves in a single project before rotating to a new challenge. Business-focused simulations rotate between experiences such as creating and marketing a business, building and managing a stock portfolio, and game theory negotiations. These business simulations alternate monthly, keeping the experience fresh while building real-world economic understanding.

Non-business simulations rotate through creative, high-interest, and interdisciplinary projects that are intentionally designed to be both fun and academically meaningful. Examples may include authoring and publishing a cookbook, responding to a simulated zombie virus outbreak, poetry writing, literature analysis, or other instructor-designed scenarios that spark curiosity while demanding sustained effort and thoughtful problem-solving. Each project spans the full month and includes clear objectives, checkpoints, and culminating deliverables (check the website to find out each month’s simulations).

These simulations are structured and rigorous, but also fun and exciting! Students are expected to think, plan, collaborate, and produce high-quality work while participating in projects that are engaging, interesting, and inspiring. The goal is serious learning in an environment where students are motivated to participate and excited to show what they can do.