Stepping into the Past is a collection of structured activities designed for the Western Civ or Introductory European History classroom, designed for all levels of students and institutions. Through simulations, projects centered on primary sources, and other forms of experiential learning, Stepping into the Past actively engages students with history. Each activity is designed to be run in the span of one class period, in a variety of classroom spaces, and using only the materials and technologies normally at the disposal of most instructors.

The activities are designed to enhance students' overall level of engagement and commitment to the class as a whole, leading to more positive learning experiences, a higher level of satisfaction, greater retention of historical content and analysis, and more profound understanding of the material.