Abstract: A wireless lockout apparatus, a system and a method for using the same are provided for receiving wireless signals from individual transmitters. When a first signal has a code that matches a reference code in a decoder, the decoder locks out subsequent signals and only allows the first transmitted signal to be routed through the processor. The processor determines which contestant sent the signal by interpreting the coded signal and indicates audibly and/or visually to which contestant the signal corresponded. A master transmitter has a bonus button and a reset button. The bonus button indicates a bonus question condition in a particular game. The reset button unlocks the decoder and allows the system to receive contestants' signals transmitted wirelessly.

Abstract: A wireless audience response system that comprises a plurality of remote response units, each of the response units comprising a first transmitter, a first receiver and a first processor coupled to the first transmitter and the first receiver and having a selectable input, the input being operable by a user to instruct the first processor to provide a response output, comprising at least one of a plurality of outputs, to the first transmitter. There also is a central control unit comprising a second transmitter, a second receiver and a second processor operatively coupled to the second transmitter and the second receiver. The second processor is operative to control the second transmitter to selectively transmit a command signal, comprising at least one of a plurality of command signals, to said plurality of remote response units, and dynamically assign a plurality of time slots to respective ones of the remote response units.

Abstract: A real-time learning assessment method for interactive teaching conducted by means of portable electronic devices. The invention involves using an assessment system to carry out real-time assessment of the result of learning conducted by means of portable electronic devices. The assessment system compiles the statistics for the number of times students raise questions with portable electronic devices during a semester and their scores on tests taken with portable electronic devices, for creating records of routine assessment conducted by means of portable electronic devices, with a view to improving the existing teaching methods and the routine academic performance assessment methods.

Abstract: A system and method of gathering and exchanging information between individuals. The system uses survey questionnaires that query a person about a variety of topics. The system can be a software application. However, in a preferred embodiment, the system is embodied by two hand-held electronic assemblies that prompt survey questions to a user and collect answers from the user. After two users have answered the same survey, they join the electronic assemblies they used to answer the survey. The electronic assemblies contain microprocessors that exchange the survey data with one another and analyze the data embodied by the survey answers.

Abstract: A method for testing students comprises updating a database in a host computer by entering relevant user information, establishing wave energy communication between the host computer and a plurality of a handheld device, registering user presence by entering user identification information in the handheld devices, presenting a set of test questions comprising a test to the handheld devices from the host computer, receiving answers to the test questions, analyzing individual test results, group test results, and accumulated test results for each individual one of the handheld devices and groups of the handheld devices.

Abstract: A video game system is described which includes a wireless game controller which stores information about the user of the controller. The controller includes a memory for storing the information. The information is communicated through wireless transmissions to a processor which can operate a video game. The personalized information can include, for example, the user's name, skill level, preferred characters, handicaps, limitations, and/or historical game scores. The game controllers can include a wireless receiver for receiving communications from the processor to update information stored in the controller. Several different communication operations and protocols are described, including storing a user identification code in the controller with corresponding detailed information stored in the processor, or storing detailed information in the hand held controller and down loading the information to the processor.

Abstract: An interactive system for teaching, entertaining, and habituating a child utilizes an interactive entity such as a doll, the doll having input and output elements and control circuitry adapted for driving the I/O elements, and a bi-directional communication link to a personal computer (PC). Scripted data stored at the computer directs doll activity and verbal articulation, and utilizes response from the child through the doll to the PC in directing output to the doll. The communication between the doll and the PC treats the doll as a peripheral device. In specific embodiments the interactive doll has servo-mechanisms for providing doll motion, such as eye and mouth and limb movement, which may be coordinated with verbalization in different scripts by commands retrieved at the computer and sent to the doll. In a preferred embodiment environments and applications are provided on CD-ROM disks which may also provide the operating application for the interactive doll system.

Abstract: A one-way or single-channel communication network utilizing electromagnetic radiation signals of a fixed single or narrow-band frequency in free air space consists of a plurality of transmitters and a central receiver in which each message is encoded in a wave train and is tagged with a sender identity (ID). The central receiver, which can be a single unit or a plurality of units connected in cascade, detects the messages in the free air space and send them along to a central processing unit (CPU) for message handling.

Abstract: There is provided an examination scoring system which comprises an independent, portable hand-held remote scoring unit (preferably owned by the student) having the capability to download answers stored therein without the need for an expensive docking station, and having the capability to transmit answers to the central scoring computer without the presence or assistance of the instructor or proctor. The system is particularly advantageous in that it provides the opportunity for the student to receive immediate scoring results to his or her remote scoring unit, and the remote scoring unit is designed to minimize the possibility of cheating.

Abstract: An interactive learning system has an interactive control unit that displays competition or quiz questions in multiple-choice or other format. Students using the system enter answer choices on a wireless keypad. A base station connected to the interactive control unit receives answer choices from and communicates with the wireless keypads. The interactive control unit keeps track of the scores for all users, and scores of different groups of users (i.e., classes).A receiver connected to the interactive control unit receives content for competitions by satellite broadcast. The competitions are then stored for later use. The system can conduct competitions from those that have been stored or broadcast, or from those that can be created by individual teachers. Previously broadcast and stored competitions can be played simultaneously by a plurality of remote locations, in a "live competition" setting.

Abstract: User-actuated systems for retrieving and presenting information on a particular subject and/or information employable in a learn while doing mode on the performance of a specified task. The systems include a laser-readable, encoded, data storage device; a player for retrieving data from the storage device; and a screen on which the retrieved information can be displayed. Onboard controls allow the system user to reach the information of concern, to repeat the presentation of that information, and to otherwise navigate through the available choices in a fashion which best meets his or her needs. An optional remote control allows the system user to accomplish the same functions, while being freed from the location of the system module.

Abstract: A polling and communications device permits a speaker to interact with an audience in data or voice modes. Questions can be transmitted to the speaker in data form. Alternatively, the speaker can selectively activate a wireless microphone for a particular member of the audience in response to an indication, sent over a data channel that a user has a question. Alternatively, a user can record a voice message and store it in memory for transmission over a data link. Information about a questioner is provided to the speaker from information stored during registration for the event and may also be provided to the audience.

Abstract: The present invention is an electronic teaching system containing two principal components: a projection frame and a hand-held remote unit. The projection frame mediates the electronic test and holds a transparency on an overhead projector so that the transparency may be projected for an entire class to view. Typically the transparency features a series of questions and possible answers to the questions. The projection frame asks the questions and displays the results of the testing process. In a preferred embodiment the projection frame bears a series of pointers, one for each question. When a given question is asked, the corresponding pointer becomes illuminated. Students participate in the test by matching the correct answer to the appropriate question. The students use the second component of the present invention, the hand-held remote unit which bears a keyboard, to answer the question currently being asked by the projection frame.

Abstract: An interactive instructional system includes a microprocessor-controlled base station for use by an instructor and/or a computer and a plurality of input devices each for use by a student. The base station and input devices communicate over a communication link or network employing wires, optical fibers, radio links, infrared links or the like. Each input device is in the form of a multiple keyswitch operated device which the student may operate to respond to a question posed by the instructor, computer or base station during a lecture. Each input device is also provided with an identifier code. Responses by the student are transmitted to the base station in messages, each of which further includes an identifier code thereby identifying the answering device or student.

Abstract: A method and system for providing improved confined area audio amplification is provided. Designed to meet the requirements of classrooms, conference rooms and offices, this new invention provides improved signal-to-noise ratio, improved system redundancy, and higher voice audio quality than is offered in previous systems. This invention utilizes infrared as the wireless communications channel, and does so with two receivers, a master and a slave to provide redundancy in signal reception and thereby solving one of the long standing problems with line of sight communications systems. This invention also employs a pulse position modulated signal which has higher noise and interference immunitity that is available with prior systems. This invention is flexible with a lightweight, wireless, battery operated transmitter packaged in a necklace type of holder, suitable for wearing around the neck of the speaker.

Abstract: The invention concerns computer-assisted education, in which a school curriculum is stored in computer repositories. A learning profile is maintained for every student, which indicates the student's capabilities, preferred learning style, and progress. Based on the profile, an Intelligent Administrator (IA) selects appropriate material for presentation to the student during each learning session. The IA then assesses whether the student has mastered the material. If not, the material is presented in a different way. If repeated different presentations fail to instill mastery, the IA establishes a video conference between the student and a professor.

Abstract: An instruction communication network which employs low-cost cordless telephone technology to broadcast information to students. A first computer operated by a student includes a first cordless telephone transceiver. A second computer operated by a teacher transfers instruction data to the first computer and includes a second cordless telephone transceiver. The cordless telephone transceivers preferably operate at frequencies designated by the FCC and has a transmission range less than five thousand feet. A typical frequency of operation is in a frequency band near 900 MHz. The first computer may encrypt responses to the instruction data.

Abstract: An interactive system for teaching, entertaining, and habituating a child utilizes an interactive entity such as a doll, the doll having a microphone, a speaker, and control circuitry adapted for driving the speaker and microphone and a bidirectional communication link to a personal computer (PC). Scripted data stored at the computer directs doll activity and verbal articulation, and utilizes response from the child through the doll to the PC in directing output to the doll. In alternative embodiments the interactive doll has also servo-mechanisms for providing doll motion, such as eye and mouth and limb movement, which may be coordinated with verbalization in different scripts by commands retrieved at the computer and sent to the doll. In a preferred embodiment environments and applications are provided on CD-ROM disks which may also provide the operating application for the interactive doll system.

Abstract: A wireless remote response system includes a base unit which retrieves user-entered responses from a plurality of remote response units, each of which is provided to a user. The base unit transmits a base data package over a wireless communication link to the plurality of remote response units, which decode the base packet and load into memory a portion of the decoded base package at each response unit. Each response unit examines the characters loaded into the memory and determines any character in the portion of the decoded base package that pertains to that particular response unit. Each remote response unit then processes any character that pertains to that particular response unit. Each bit of data exchanged between the base unit and the response unit is encoded as a particular time interval for at least one cycle of a periodic waveform by varying the time interval either between successive rising edges or between successive falling edges of the periodic waveform.

Abstract: A method of using a computer to teach, wherein a child first studies a first element of information located on a computer screen, then locates an empty space adjacent to first element. The empty space is intended to receive a second related element of information. After comparing what is available from a group of second elements, the child selects an appropriate second element from a remote source located on the screen. Once a correct second element is chosen, appropriate software allows the child to computer activate (touch screen or use a mouse) to selectively display a third element. The third element relates to the second element, while the second element relates to the first. The child learns by observing the designed relationship between any first element and the second element and any relationship between the second element and the third element.

Abstract: A video game apparatus is provided for use in conjunction with a remotely controllable audio visual playback device, such as a video cassette player. The game apparatus comprises a learning remote control which is programmed with remote control signals such as pause and restart signals for the particular audio visual playback device with which it is to be used. A plurality of hand-held switches are coupled to the remote control so that when one of the switches is actuated the audio visual playback is paused. In this way, a plurality of players may play a prerecorded question and answer type quiz game, wherein the first player to actuate his or her hand-held switch is allowed time to answer the preceding question whilst the audio visual playback is paused.

Abstract: An audience participation system and method utilizing wireless transmission is provided. The system includes a plurality of modules in the possession of an audience, each module having a keypad or other means which is activated by a member of the audience in order for the audience to respond to a question posed by the speaker during his presentation. After the speaker poses a question, the audience responds by supplying information through a physical input into the module. The module then encodes the information provided into an encoded electrical pattern. This encoded electrical pattern is modulated into an electromagnetic signal which is then electromagnetically transmitted. A base station has a receiver for capturing the electromagnetic signal which is then demodulated into the encoded electrical pattern originally transmitted.

Abstract: A rapidly responsive, computer-based education system is described wherein a large central computer which is adapted to store and execute educational software and to provide a high speed data output stream of multiplexed data frames, communicates with a plurality of remotely located, keyboard actuated display terminals. Communications are accomplished in the forward channel via a satellite link with reverse channel communications being via one or more dedicated telephone lines. The forward channel satellite link is able to accept data at multi megabit rates and to service tens of thousands of user terminals per satellite transponder. The reverse channel telephone line, while only able to accept data rates in the kilobit per second range, accommodates outputs from hundreds of user operated terminals because of the low data rates generated by user operated terminals.

Abstract: A radio-controlled teaching device comprising a teacher transmitter unit and a plurality of student receiver units for maintaining student alertness during oral reading of written textual material, for the oral administration of multiple-choice or true or false test material, and for the preparation and presentation of recorded programmed instructional material. The teacher transmitter unit contains a tone generator and radio transmitter which transmits discrete tone signals, either under manual control of the teacher or automatically under the control of a plural channel instructional tape recording. Each student receiver unit contains timers, a logic circuit, and a radio receiver which receives the above tone signals (which are transparent to the students) and provides a short time period during which the student is expected to respond by briefly closing a response switch. The short time periods correspond to portions of a text being orally read, such as the end of a paragraph, proper nouns, verbs, etc.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for minority view reduction including a plurality of user controlled assemblies each with means for producing a positive response, a negative responses and a system inhibit response, a group attitude indicator means for registering the collective user positive responses, negative responses and for inhibiting further registration of either positive and negative responses with any system disable response. Communication is provided between the group attitude indicator and each of the user control assemblies for indicating to the group the registered collective responses and inhibiting the registering means upon determination of any system inhibit response from any member of the group. The user control assemblies may be hand-held button panels or microswitch means positioned at the maxillary jaw muscles. The indicator means can be a column of lights or a pair of lights each of whose brilliance is controlled in accordance with the responses.

Abstract: A two-way microwave television system for linking a master or teaching station with a plurality of sub-station schools via a single microwave link is presented. The sub-station schools are located at dispersed school sites and function as relay stations to complete a network covering a geographical area of greater dimensions than could be achieved by the master station unassisted. A single duplex microwave channel is used to transmit a picture originating at the master station and special effects generators located at each of the sub-station school relay sites combine, through a special video switching network, responses from each sub-station school to form an integrated frame containing the response from each sub-station in a format which can be transmitted on a single channel carrier.

Abstract: An electronic voting system includes a plurality of wireless response units, each response unit capable of transmitting several different digitally coded signals. Each of these digitally coded signals corresponds to the response of a person responding to a given stimulus. Each response unit transmits a selected digitally coded response via a radio frequency signal during one of a series of time intervals, a different time interval corresponding to each of the response units. An interrogating and response processing unit signals the response units to commence response transmission and receives, processes and displays the transmitted responses for observation by selected persons.

Abstract: In a teaching system having a central or master station and one or more student stations remote from the master station, there are provided, at the master station, at least one source of main signals in a first frequency band, which source may be constituted by a tape or other record player for reproducing teaching or instructional materials, a microphone or other source of audio signals from a proctor or supervisor of the teaching system, and a source of control signals which may include address signals for identifying one of the student stations and command signals for controlling various operations of the addressed student station.