Abstract: This invention is directed toward packs, pads, sheets or rolls of repositionable and reusable sticky notes that are pre-printed with one or more themes, thereby enabling a user of the invention to decorate a home, office, or other structure with the sticky notes to convey a message or expression. The sticky notes are complied in the traditional fashion, with each note having a portion near the top, side, center or bottom or all over if on a roll or sheet which has removable, semi-sticky glue which allows it to stick to a wall. Because the sticky notes are easily removed from the pack, and are pre-printed with the desired message, they are easily placed in large or small quantities on a mirror, wall, floor, ceiling, car, seat, file folder, scrapbook or other hard or soft surface in a decorative manner to send a bold message.

Abstract: This invention is directed toward packs, pads, sheets or rolls of repositionable and reusable sticky notes that are pre-printed with one or more themes, thereby enabling a user of the invention to decorate a home, office, or other structure with the sticky notes to convey a message or expression. The sticky notes are complied in the traditional fashion, with each note having a portion near the top, side, center or bottom or all over if on a roll or sheet which has removable, semi-sticky glue which allows it to stick to a wall. Because the sticky notes are easily removed from the pack, and are pre-printed with the desired message, they are easily placed in large or small quantities on a mirror, wall, floor, ceiling, car, seat, file folder, scrapbook or other hard or soft surface in a decorative manner to send a bold message.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method of language learning, which displays a three dimensional environment on a user display. A user can navigate a character representation (3) around the environment. A plurality of destination points (2A, 2B, 2C) are provided in the environment for the character (3), wherein at least at selected destination points either exemplar or interactive conversations (7, 8) are initiated with the character (3).

Abstract: A method of learning a second language through the guidance of pictures that enables users to learn multiple languages through computers. After users input a plurality of words, a picture/text interface will display the plurality of input words, a plurality of output words, and a plurality of pictures. The plurality of output words represent the plurality of input words in another language, and the plurality of pictures represent the plurality of input words.

Abstract: An in-flight entertainment distribution apparatus distributes audio signals within an aircraft. A connector receives an audio signal, so as to identify any speech signal contained within the audio output of In-flight audible announcements/entertainments. The speech signals are broken down into recognizable phonemes which make up the most basic elements of speech in spoken languages. The sequentially generated phonemes are then regrouped to form recognizable words in one of native languages spoken around the world. While watching the audible program, the activity of language area of user's brain is recorded using electrodes in the cap. The recorded “brain language area activity signals” are analyzed and then compared with “brain language area activity knowledge base” to identify the native language of user. Sentences are formed using the grammatical rules of the native language. Each sentence is then translated into the identified native language and broadcast to the user using a voice synthesizer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and method for studying a foreign language in vehicle, including a multimedia terminal checking the ability of foreign language of a user by comparing foreign language study data of the user with foreign language study data of a native speaker which has been stored in advance; and a remote controller sending a study start command, and a study end command to the multimedia terminal through a local wireless communication.

Abstract: Four hundred twenty one NIPPON TUNSI Cognates (NTC), are delineated in this auspicious sui generis discovery. One hundred seven root verbs, one hundred seven different root adjectives, as well as two hundred seven separate root nouns, conjunctions, particles etc, are presented in Tunsi and Japanese (Hiragana and Katagana) including an English translation and a Romanized transcription for each Japanese word. The Sumerian alternation, and the Cassidy Code with its trilogy (apocope, alternations, and reverse) will suffice to bridge and reconcile the Regular Differences (RD) between the Tunsi and the Japanese vocabularies. Another brought forward proof that MT is adumbrated in all languages of our planet. This LRC divulges a simple average of one twenty four (1.24) RD, or Degree Of Separation (DOS) in four hundred twenty one NTC. This research reveals that there is one and only language family.

Abstract: A method for assisting a user in learning a target language is provided. A set of first terms is displayed. The set of first terms enables the user to begin a sentence. A selection of a first term of the set of first terms is received. A first set of child terms is retrieved from a repository based on the selection of the first term and is displayed to the user. The first set of child terms may combine with the first term based on grammatical rules of the target language. A second set of child terms is displayed subsequent to the first set of child terms based on receiving a selection of a first child term and/or completion of the sentence. Selections of the first term, the first child term and subsequent child terms are received from the user to form the sentence.

Abstract: A system of language learning applies economic theory to provide speakers and learners of each of plural languages. Remote users teach the native languages to one another by providing practice time for users seeking to learn such language. A computer keeps track of the value and cost of teaching and learning time in each language.

Abstract: A translation device analyses image data that includes characters, to separate and extract a character region, and another region whose structural elements differ from those of the character region; recognizes characters in the region determined to be the character region; extracts a character string related to the other region, from a result of the character recognition, to associate the character string with the character region from which the character string is extracted and the other region; translates the resulting recognized characters; and, based on the association between the character string and the other character region, pastes the resulting translation that includes the character string onto the same page as the other region that is associated with the character string.

Abstract: A card game played with a deck of playing cards in a native language that are organized in thematic suits. Each player aims at having as many full suits as possible. Each player in turn asks other players for cards out of suits held by the player. The thematic suits comprise playing cards with expressions in at least one foreign language. Playing the game promotes the knowledge of the players of the foreign languages.

Abstract: Certain aspects of the invention may be found in a method and apparatus for aiding language pronunciation. In an aspect of the invention, based on at least one triggering event, an audio enabled toy such as a babble bear may be adapted to play back phonemes and/or lingos comprising sounds, including words, phrases and sentences. The phonemes and/or lingos may cover a wide range of phonemes from a variety of languages, thereby exercising the hearing ability of infants and toddlers and enhancing their ability to learn new languages. Phoneme sequences and lingo sequences, or a combination thereof, may be retrieved from one or more removable storages within the toy and selectively played back within the audio enabled toy. Libraries of phonemes and lingo can be downloaded from servers, personal computers and remote storage.

Abstract: An educational board game that may be played in several ways by either a single player or two or more players in competition with each other is disclosed. Each player plays the game with a game board in conjunction with one or more sets of game cards. The game boards have on one or both surfaces vocabulary elements that may be one or more words or phrases in a first language or that may be an image representing one or more words or phrases. The game boards also may have on one of its surfaces a reference number. A set of game cards may be one-sided, in which case each card may have on a surface one or more words or phrases in a first language. A set of game cards also may be double-sided, in which case the cards may have on a first surface one or more words or phrases in a first language and on a second surface a translation of the words or phrases on the first surface. The double-sided game card also may have on a surface a pronunciation key, a reference number, or both.

Abstract: This invention relates to systems, methods and computer program code for facilitating learning of spoken languages. We describe a computing system to facilitate learning of a spoken language, the system comprising: a user interface to prompt a user of the system to produce a spoken language goal and to capture audio data comprising speech captured from said user in response; a speech analysis system to analyse said captured audio data to determine acoustic or linguistic pattern features of said captured audio data; a pattern matching system to match one or more subsets of said pattern features to a database of pattern features and to determine feedback data responsive to said match; and a feedback system to provide feedback to said user using said feedback data to facilitate said user to achieve said spoken language goal.

Abstract: A language learning system and a method thereof are disclosed. The language learning system comprises at least one teaching material database and a computer apparatus. The teaching material database comprises original video data, original broadcast sequence data and authored learning data. The computer apparatus comprises a language learning module, a text record table and a broadcast rule table. The language learning module has an index module, a broadcast module and a recording module. The index module compares the original broadcast sequence data with the text record table to generate a broadcast sequence table. At least one learning unit is generated from the original video data or the authored learning data based on the broadcast sequence table. The broadcast module broadcasts the learning unit based on the broadcast rule table.

Abstract: A phonetic pronunciation training device, phonetic pronunciation training method, and phonetic pronunciation training program is provided wherein pronunciation and sounds in language acquisition can be self-learned and listening skills, spelling skills and vocabulary can be enhanced. The present invention comprises at least a data base for storing phonetic pronunciation data associated with phonetic data and phonetic symbol data indicating this phonetic data, a selection function block for receiving instruction signal from an input means and randomly selecting phonetic pronunciation data, a phonetic pronunciation data reproducing function for reproducing selected phonetic pronunciation data, and a phonetic symbol data correct/error determination function block for comparing phonetic symbol data input by the input means and phonetic symbol data corresponding to the selected phonetic pronunciation data and recording the correct/error result to a memory means.

Abstract: An educational tool includes a plurality of removable stickers, at least one sticker further comprising at least one word in both a first language and a second language. The stickers may be arranged in sheets and/or a book and are intended to be removably applied to objects in an environment that are representative of the words provided on the stickers. Thus, a user can easily grasp the meaning of the word or phrase from the close proximity of the two versions of the word or phrase and the application of such word or phrase to an object that is representative of such word or phrase.

Abstract: Methods and computer programs for assisting a user to record at least one phoneme, quickly and accurately, including: showing the user an animation illustrating the movements in the vocal tract required to pronounce the phoneme; and recording the user.

Abstract: A method of teaching language utilizing percussion instruments, an original repertoire of songs and specific body movements. Students unconsciously learn the structure and sound of words and complete phrases of the language by playing percussion instruments, speaking, chanting and singing specially composed songs combined with specific physical movements (auditive, kinesthetic and visual senses). The combined activities follow the natural pulse and dynamics of the language. Nonverbal communication (para linguistic) is used and follows the rhythm of the exercises. The students do basic music ear training exercises using percussion instruments to focus on the rhythm of sound and to develop listening and concentration skills. The method includes breathing exercises for relaxation combined with the vowel positions and sounds of the language, and vocal sound exercises to teach physical adaptation for pronunciation.

Abstract: This invention is an apparatus and a method for language training and general entertainment and role-playing. It employs a computer that can play back audio or audio-visual program material, using special software to selectively direct the audio of this playback through the computer's speaker system or through a headset, with the user taking the audio routed to her headset—in particular speech—as a model and prompt to repeat this speech audibly. The user plays the role of the person in the program material whose speech is being routed to her headset, and the special software further permits the user to record her dubbing efforts along with the program material, producing a version of the program material with the user's voice recorded in place of, or in conjunction with, the voice of a character in the program material.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for facilitating an interview where the interviewer and interviewee speak different languages. An important application is to first responder situations during an emergency. The invention implements several improvements over the prior art. A method is provided whereby the interviewee who cannot read can nevertheless specify her language to the interviewer and system. Choices of topics about which the interviewer might want to communicate with the interviewee are ranked by associated probabilities or risks, thereby assisting the interviewer in selecting next steps in the interview and treatment process; the interviewer, nevertheless, retains the discretion to choose other options. Information communicated to the interviewee in detail can be presented to the interviewer in summary form, so that the interviewer can concentrate on higher priority matters.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for replacing subtitle text with occasional word or idiom translations. In the method an initial language skill is determined. A content object is selected for presentation. A content vocabulary associated with the content object is determined. The content vocabulary is reduced based on the initial language skill to produce a target vocabulary. The presentation of said content object is started in the electronic device. The presence of a word in the content object is detected. The translation of the word is displayed on a display of the electronic device, if the word belongs to the target vocabulary.

Abstract: An English syllable system which uses English words, Partial English Words, and Phonics to teach people how to speak other languages with the accent as if the student were from that country. This system uses the preceding three types of words from the English Language to teach foreign languages.

Abstract: To help young children and other individuals learn a language while playing and having fun a novel card or device is presented that includes, on one side, a word in a first (e.g., non-English) language on its surface along with a pronunciation guide associated with the word and an image of the word, and on an opposite side a translation (e.g., into English) of the word along with a pronunciation guide associated with the word. The device may also include means to secure it to a physical object similar to that shown in the image.

Abstract: A system and method for language instruction is provided. In an embodiment, a method of language instruction is provided which comprises presenting a first description of an event responsive to a first perspective and presenting a second description of the event responsive to a second perspective, wherein the first description of the event and the second description of the event are in a common language. The first and second descriptions of the event can be provided in a variety of formats, such as in audio format or as text.

Abstract: A student is taught a language through the introduction of target expressions including features, such as specific words or phrases and language structure. The student is presented one or more reference expressions made up of target expression with one or more of its features altered, while maintaining semantic meaningfulness, and he is prompted with a prompting expression designed to elicit the target expression as a response, in view of the at least one reference expression.

Abstract: A system, method and a computer readable medium for providing virtual learning of academic topic unrelated to languages in a non-native language of a student. The system includes an input device, which receives user input, a datastore, which stores the academic topic. At least a portion of the academic topic is stored in both native and non-native languages. The system further includes a processor, which obtains the academic topic based on the user input and an output device, which outputs the academic topic provided by the processor to a user. The academic topic is obtained by the processor with sheltered instruction in the non-native language. Upon a user request, the continuous providing of the academic topic is paused and at least one key term of the academic topic is provided in the native language.

Abstract: A language learning method is disclosed. The method includes providing a persistent environment such that when a player enters the persistent environment, an interaction between the player and the persistent environment is based on the player's level of a language skill.

Abstract: The invention provides study aids that work in tandem with a preferred format of ancient or foreign texts. In one embodiment, the invention provides an overlay containing a partial or full set of the vowel and punctuation marks. The overlay can be transparent or otherwise fashioned to superimpose the text without being permanently affixed with the text itself. A beginning student can rely on a more comprehensive overlay containing nearly all of the vowel or punctuation markings, and the overlays can be modified to provide levels of assistance to match the skills of the student or the comfort of the parent or instructor.

Abstract: An immersion method teaches a student conversational speech aspects of a language (such as a second language) while, in the process, intensively exposing the student to a relevant conversational program (such as advertising) as an integral part of the teaching process. The method may include displaying, to the user/student, portions of video and audio of a conversational program (such as an advertisement in a second language), while causing a textual indication of the displayed audio to be simultaneously displayed (e.g., in the second language and a native language). The user may be prompted for information indicative of comprehension of the program by the user. Particularly in the case of advertising, information indicative of comprehension of the program can be very useful to the advertiser, as well as the prompting process itself serving to reinforce themes presented in the advertisement.

Abstract: A method for learning a foreign language using a learning aid is provided. The learning aid includes a reading manual having a plurality of pages organized into a number of sections which are read in an orderly fashion in order to facilitate incremental advancement and masterfulness concerning the learning of a target language. The method involves building an active foreign language alphabet and language as it is done naturally in user's native language.

Abstract: Teaching material generation methods and systems to generate teaching material for language learning are provided. The system comprises a plurality of social circumstances, a plurality of contextual situations, a user interface and a processing module. The user interface receives a selection corresponding to at least one of the social circumstances, and a selection corresponding to at least one of the contextual situations. The processing module generates teaching material according to the selected social circumstance and the selected contextual situation.

Abstract: Learner-controlled foreign language learning method and system are disclosed. The method is performed by a learner's computer and an education server by providing foreign language learning contents to a computer through the Internet, and includes reproducing entire details of a selected foreign language learning content, determining whether there is a request for repeatedly reproducing, and reproducing the entire details of the foreign language learning content again when repeatedly reproducing is requested, processing a repeat-of-pronunciation by reading the details containing the foreign language learning content when the request for repeatedly reproducing is not asked; and processing the learning of the foreign language learning content by providing a question with respect to the details of the foreign language learning content and a request for an answer after the processing the repeat-of-pronunciation, and by comparing a learner's answer with the question.

Abstract: Disclosed are a foreign language oral test method and a system in which a non-native speaker can evaluate a vocal answer of a learner. An education server of the method includes providing at least one of foreign language questions to a leaner computer and receiving and recording the vocal answer corresponding to the provided foreign language question; displaying a plurality of evaluation references such that a non-specialist for foreign language can evaluate the vocal answer of the learner; reproducing a required vocal answer for the provided foreign language question and the recorded vocal answer of the learner; and storing any one of the evaluation references selected by an evaluator who listens to the required vocal answer and the vocal answer of the learner.

Abstract: Immersive imaging system for learning a language comprising at least a first level, this first level including: d) a first activity that introduces a user of the system to the meaning and sound of a piece of spoken language; e) a second activity that works the visual mapping of spoken language on a picture matrix; and f) a third activity that works the narrative mapping of spoken language.

Abstract: Various embodiments of this invention disclose a method for learning a foreign language using a variety of media such as audio-video, audio, and written media. The diverse embodiments of the invention allow the student to learn a foreign language in an accelerated manner that creates a stress-free environment and lowers a student's effective barrier to learning a foreign language. In various embodiments of the invention, the foreign language is taught using audio-video media. The video presents a movie or television presentation. Meanwhile, the original audio portion is replaced with an audio track, which is developed using the principles of the invention. The audio comprises the “phrases or complete thoughts” of the original video that are segmented and presented in alternating sections of native and foreign language.

Abstract: A language tutor system and method. The system comprising a client module and a server module coupled to the client module. The server module downloads an oral language assignment to the client module to enable a student learning a second language to login to the client module and perform the oral language assignment. The client module provides a benchmark audio sentence in the second language to the student, records a recitation of the sentence from the student, and evaluates the recitation of the sentence from the student by comparing the recitation of the sentence with the benchmark audio. The system provides feedback to the student on the pronunciation and intonation of each word in the sentence.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to foreign language instruction and translation methods. A system is provided which utilizes tonal and rhythm visualization components to allow a person to “see” their words as they attempt to speak a foreign language or a specific regional dialect. The system is also applicable to foreign language translation systems and allows students to improve their pronunciation by responding to visual feedback which incorporates both color and shape. The system may comprise a step-by-step instruction method, along with recording and playback features. Certain embodiments incorporate statistical analysis of student progress, remote access for teacher consultation, and video games for enhancing student interest.

Abstract: A language learning system adapted to facilitate the learning of a language by at least a first of two separated users comprising a web-based system which integrates peer-to-peer communications with Voice over Internet Protocol technology to provide one-to-one communication which enables said users to speak in real-time with the intention of taking part in scripted role-play scenarios in the language to be learned which enables the at least first user to practice skills in this language wherein the text of a selected role-play is displayed before each of said users simultaneously with the said speaking in real-time.

Abstract: A phonetic teaching/correcting device for learning Mandarin includes a book having a plurality of pages. At least one page includes a Chinese character. Also provided on the same page is at least one phonetic symbol component that constitutes a phonetic symbol combination representing pronunciation of the Chinese character. Also provided on the same page are a first mark in association with pronunciation of the Chinese character and a second mark in association with pronunciation of each phonetic symbol component. A speaker outputs pronunciation of one of the Chinese character and the phonetic symbol component scanned by a reader.

Abstract: A method of teaching pronunciation is provided which includes communicating by a voice portal server to a user a model word and detecting a response by the user to the voice portal server. The method also includes comparing the response word to the model word and determining a confidence level based on the comparison of the response word to the model word. The method further includes comparing an acceptance limit to the confidence level and confirming a correct pronunciation of the model word if the confidence level one of equals and exceeds the acceptance limit.

Abstract: A language listening and speaking teaching system and method that utilize a random tests function to provide full-scale and various language training subjects and enable a learner to set up the listening and speaking training process according to his/her preference and create a more well-chosen shadowing learning process. Moreover, it assists a learner by enhancing and deepening the listening and speaking training content through an instant paraphrase and definition function, following completion of the shadowing learning process.

Abstract: A device for communicating, preferably between two people who could not normally orally communicate, by at least one user pointing to pictograms on the device. The device can be a static medium having a plurality of icons thereon or can be part of a computer generated program having a graphic display that is either moving or stationary so that a user can select at least one icon to communicate an idea. When two or more people use the device to communicate, the device enables a dialogue to develop between the people. A first responder to an emergency situation could use the device in any country to gather information to quickly respond to the situation.

Abstract: Techniques for context-sensitive language learning are disclosed. For example, a language learning system may include an interface for communicating with at least one user, at least one sensor for collecting at least one form of data regarding the context in which the system is being used, and a processing device capable of making at least one adjustment to the communication with the user based on analysis of at least a portion of the data collected by the at least one sensor. The data may include audio data, visual information, biometric data, location, or velocity and the sensors may include a microphone, a camera, a biometric sensor, a global positioning system (GPS) device, or a velocimeter. The system may also use this data, alone or in combination with schedule data obtained from an external source, to determine the attention level of the user and to make corresponding adjustments to the communication.

Abstract: An educational board game that may be played in several ways by either a single player or two or more players in competition with each other is disclosed. Each player plays the game with a game board in conjunction with one or more sets of game cards. The game boards have on one or both surfaces vocabulary elements that may be one or more words or phrases in a first language or that may be an image representing one or more words or phrases. The game boards also may have on one of its surfaces a reference number. A set of game cards may be one-sided, in which case each card may have on a surface one or more words or phrases in a first language. A set of game cards also may be double-sided, in which case the cards may have on a first surface one or more words or phrases in a first language and on a second surface a translation of the words or phrases on the first surface. The double-sided game card also may have on a surface a pronunciation key, a reference number, or both.

Abstract: A learning tool and method of creating the same wherein words are arranged according to similarities or commonalties such that a user may more efficiently acquire knowledge of a foreign language based on an association method of learning. The learning tool is comprised of a plurality of words of a first known language and a second foreign language, wherein each word of the first language has a corresponding translation in the second language. The words of each language are compared and categorized into at least first and second groups A and B, wherein group A words possess one or more identifiable similar characteristics based on predetermined criteria. Group B, on the other hand, is comprised of words having dissimilar characteristics. Groups A and B are divided into subgroups according to parts of speech and gender characteristics, as identified, such that as groups A and B are further divided, each subgroup includes L1 words and L2 translations sharing more similar characteristics than the preceding group.

Abstract: An electronic device capable of displaying a computer application that allows the use of a method for performing a transaction without the use of spoken communication is disclosed. The method consists of providing at least one digital, transactional flash card displayed on the electronic device having information about the transaction and the transaction goal displayed on it, in text understandable to the user and different text understandable to the party from whom the user wishes to purchase goods or services. The digital, transactional flash cards can have inquiries about price, payment methods, or shipping terms. Also disclosed are the navigational interface for the software application and different display methods.

Abstract: An auditory sense training device 1 to be used in an auditory sense training method for training auditory sense by listening to a sound formed by processing an original sound comprises a band attenuation processing method 20 for attenuating a predetermined frequency band of an original sound 10, a switching means 30 for selectively outputting either the original sound or the output from said band attenuation processing means, a panpot processing means 40 for performing a panpot process wherein a voice signal formed by attenuating an original sound of one channel is superposed to the original sound of another channel, and a phase reverse processing means 50 for performing a phase reverse process of reversing the phase of the original sound, wherein a trainee listens to the original sound and a band attenuation processed sound formed by attenuating a predetermined frequency band of the original sound alternately.

Abstract: Learning materials of an Ueda Method can be distributed to teachers and learners through a computer network, and a teacher can effectively teach a language using the distributed learning materials of the Ueda Method. The method includes: (A) inputting to a computer predetermined information about our daily life which refers to an advertisement of a company; (B) preparing language learning materials for a learner and language teaching materials for a teacher based on the advertisement; (C) distributing the language learning materials to the learner through a network; (D) distributing to a teacher the language learning materials and the language teaching materials through a network; (E) training a teacher using the language learning materials and the language teaching materials; (F) inputting and registering the trained teacher and a learner in the computer; and (G) the trained teacher teaching a language to a learner through the computer.

Abstract: A system and method for teaching a speaker of a primary language the basic tools necessary to communicate with a speaker of the a secondary language in an accelerated and concise manner, including a base set of phrase or word cards and a profession-specific set of phrase or word cards, each of the cards including: a phrase or word in a primary language; a translation of the phrase or word in a secondary language; and a pronunciation key written in the primary language to aid a speaker in pronouncing the phrase or word in the secondary language. The cards can also include a visual depiction of a scenario which can aid the speaker in remembering both the pronunciation and meaning of a particular word or phrase.