1. A web-based educational system comprising: (a) a digital processing device comprising a processor and an operating system configured to perform executable instructions; and (b) a computer program including instructions executable by a digital processing system that create an educational environment for a learner, the educational environment comprising: at least one area of skill, interest, or expertise; a plurality of activities associated with each area of skill, interest, or expertise; and, at least three navigational modes comprising: i. a sequenced navigational mode wherein said web-based educational system presents to a learner a predetermined sequence of more than one activity in one or more areas of skill, interest, or expertise wherein the learner must complete each preceding activity in the sequence to progress to the next; ii. a guided navigational mode wherein said web-based educational system presents to the learner one or more activities in one or more areas of skill, interest, or expertise selected by a human mentor from among a population of activities to create a subpopulation of activities; iii. an independent navigational mode wherein said web-based educational system presents navigational elements to allow the learner to select activities from among a population of activities; and iv. optionally, the educational environment provides the learner with the ability to switch between said navigational modes.