Abstract: A problem checker architecture that monitors user progress during a problem-solving process and assists the user through the process (e.g., when requested) using common human methods of solving the problem. Assistance can be in the form of detecting errors during the process, and providing context-sensitive help information when the user gets stuck or makes a mistake. The problem checker can walk the user through the process of solving a math problem one step at a time allowing the user to learn to solve math problems according to a number of different methods. Rather than simply calculating and displaying the answer, the problem checker allows the user to attempt to solve math problems, providing direction only when asked and correction only when required. The problem checker can recognize multiple solution methods for many common math problems and guide the user to the solution via any of the methods.

Abstract: A problem checker architecture that monitors user progress during a problem-solving process and assists the user through the process (e.g., when requested) using common human methods of solving the problem. Assistance can be in the form of detecting errors during the process, and providing context-sensitive help information when the user gets stuck or makes a mistake. The problem checker can walk the user through the process of solving a math problem one step at a time allowing the user to learn to solve math problems according to a number of different methods. Rather than simply calculating and displaying the answer, the problem checker allows the user to attempt to solve math problems, providing direction only when asked and correction only when required. The problem checker can recognize multiple solution methods for many common math problems and guide the user to the solution via any of the methods.

Abstract: A problem generator that takes an input as a math problem, analyzes the math problem, and intelligently spawns similar example problem types. The output is a set of math problems based on the conditions set during analysis and customization. For example, if the original problem deals with linear equations, this will be detected during analysis and used to spawn other linear equations as problems. Moreover, if the answer to the original problem is in integer format, so will the answers to the spawned problems. A customizable UI is designed to allow further customization of problem conditions to generate an accurate set of problems based on the initial input. Problem generator templates can be created, shared and modified for distribution and/or future use. Additionally, problem generation APIs can be extended for external code to automate and consume generated math problems.

Abstract: A Dynamic Timeline for a computer-based information source, such as an electronic encyclopedia. The Dynamic Timeline can display Links, typically a reference to a time period, topic, or event. When the user chooses the Link, an array of information is presented to the user about the Link-related time period, topic, or event. Links can highlight individual events and trends that occur over a period of time. Links also can present an editorial perspective of events. The Links are typically listed in chronological order on the Dynamic Timeline for an electronic encyclopedia. The Dynamic Timeline allows users to view different Links by changing some dynamic settings.

Abstract: A text normalizer normalizes text that is output from a speech recognizer. The normalization of the text produces text that is less awkward and more familiar to recipients of the text. The text may be normalized to include audio content, video content, or combinations of audio and video contents. The text may also be normalized to produce a hypertext document. The text normalization is performed using a context-free grammar. The context-free grammar includes rules that specify how text is to be normalized. The context-free grammar may be organized as a tree that is used to parse text and facilitate normalization. The context-free grammar is extensible and may be readily changed.