 The Disney Institute was formerly a resort and learning center opened in February 1996 by Michael Eisner.The resort, which was partly based on the Chautauqua Institution in New York, was envisioned as a new direction in vacationing; one that was more about hands-on learning, personal development and interactivity rather than the more passive, entertainment-based experience traditionally offered in Disney's theme parks.The Institute's original curriculum was pared down over the years due to lackluster attendance.