The MicroSociety® program represents a new breed of learning environments. It is the only student-based entire school reform efforts of its kind. This research-based education program transforms classrooms by providing a real-world context for academic learning. Students collaborate with parents, business volunteers, and teachers to create a functioning small community within the school. Students spend one class period each day in their jobs where they learn to run businesses, apply technology, develop government and social agencies, and create cultural and arts organizations. Gradually, students become immersed in the realities of a free-market economy with taxes, property concerns, income issues and politics.
Students begin the preparation for the "jobs" ahead of them by learning how to prepare a resume and present themselves in an effective interview. "What job is for me?" is the question that surfaces from those wanting to join the work force. Others, however, decide to make a business plan and develop their own business as an entrepreneur. They will prepare to sell their new business idea to potential employees during the opening "Job Fair".
Setting budgets, deciding skill needs, developing pay scales, determining "warehouse" needs, and staying on top of the IRS are just a few of the responsibilities involved. Learning what it is to be an active thinking citizen, how math and science “fit in” to the world of work and how to write with a purpose are some of the other critical aspects this innovative approach brings to learning.