Abstract: A method for the optimization of optical scanners by automatically determining image processing threshold values using a novel threshold calibration sheet. The calibration sheet image has lines at a forty-five degree angle to the path of the document through the scanner and has a predetermined image dot count. One embodiment comprises the steps of repetitively scanning the sheet until scanner threshold values which satisfy predetermined relationships with said dot count are determined. Another embodiment comprises the steps of a single calibration scan with multiple processing of the gray scale scan data on a host computer. By using this method, two or more scanner cameras can work together on processing document images and consistently give uniform results, independent of their individual technical operating or performance differences.

Abstract: A computerized mastery testing system providing for the computerized implementation of sequential testing in order to reduce test length without sacrificing mastery classification accuracy. The mastery testing system is based on Item Response Theory and Bayesian Decision Theory which are used to qualify collections of test items, administered as a unit, and determine the decision rules regarding examinee's responses thereto. The test item units are randomly and sequentially presented to the examinee by a computer test administrator. The administrator periodically determines, based on previous responses, whether the examinee may be classified as a nonmaster or master or whether more responses are necessary. If more responses are necessary it will present as many additional test item units as required for classification.

Abstract: This invention provides automatic testing systems and methods for testing for figural responses to a test inquiry. The testing system includes a test sheet of predetermined dimensions having a grid with a plurality of marking areas arranged in predetermined position and a figural arrangement having a first optical reflectivity arranged within the grid corresponding to one or more of the marking areas. The system includes indicia of a second optical reflectivity overmarking a selected number of the marking areas associated with the figural arrangement and optical scanning means having different optical sensitivities to the first and second optical reflectivities for scanning the sheet to determine the positions of the overmarked areas.

Abstract: A method for optically scanning a document having preprinted marking positions is disclosed. According to the invention, the document has a specified format including rows of preprinted marking positions to be scanned. Document size in at least one direction is automatically measured at each row of preprinted marking materials before that row is scanned. The scanning of each row of preprinted marking positions is automatically adjusted to compensate for random variations in shrinkage and expansion of document size. Document skew relative to the scanning camera is automatically measured at each row of preprinted marking positions to be scanned before scanning each row, and an indication that scanning should not continue is provided if any skew measurement exceeds a predetermined skew limit.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for processing forms and organizing data taken from the forms, including optical scanning of a sheet and obtaining image data from selected portions of the sheet, and formatting of the selected image data and storing and displaying the formatted image data for subsequent use.

Abstract: A method and system for grading free response tests including the use of highly accurate machine-readable data codes to uniquely associate test-taker, test and reader/grader, and a portable sensing device which stores codes read by the device for subsequent entry into a host computer. The method permits multiple readers/graders to evaluate the same test without one reader/grader influencing another, while reducing paper handling and key entry of data inherent in large volume paper and pencil testing techniques.

Abstract: Combination automatic feed systems and sheet readers are provided by this invention which include aligning and picking mechanisms for transporting and laterally aligning a sheet of paper relative to a flow path. The system includes a microprocessor for delivering a sheet to the alignment mechanism whereby a timing of this delivery by the automatic feeding mechanism is coordinated with the timing of the reading of the sheets in the sheet reader to compensate for both regular and irregular delays in reading the sheets, for example, during the grading of test scores. Methods for automatically feeding, reading and aligning sheets for a sheet reader are also provided.

Abstract: A Cloze-Elide automated testing system and method, utilizing a display surface such as a printed sheet or video terminal. A text of words being presented on the display have distractor words inserted therein to be elided by the examinee, the distractor words being positioned at predetermined surface positions. Means are presented to the examinee for deleting, or eliding the distractor words, and automatic scoring apparatus is provided for determining the positions or identity of the word selected to be elided from the text and for automatically computing an indication of the test score.

Abstract: In a teaching system, a television screen displays a question calling for one of four possible answers, together with one or a pair of dots of light at locations illuminated in a binary pattern indicating the correct answer. Optical sensors detachably secured to the television receiver screen at the locations and concealing the same from view feed a pair of binary signals to a logic decoder. The decoder provides an output signal over one of four output lines to a number of student-actuated responder units, each of which includes four switches for selecting an answer and a lamp that is illuminated to indicate the selection of a correct answer. In an alternative embodiment, each responder unit is disabled after the switches are first actuated to select an answer and is re-enabled only after receiving a reset signal from an additional optically sensed screen dot at the beginning of the next response period.