Abstract: A surgical spear includes a cut sponge element that has been processed to render it at least substantially free from particulates and other debris; an eye spear comprised of an essentially particulate-free sponge element is uniquely suited for LASIK surgery. In most instances the surgical spear will be enclosed in a packaging component, which may or may not be fabricated from a water-permeable material and may or may not be left unsealed in the packaging step.

Abstract: An article for packing body cavities comprises a protective sheath of supple, smooth, polymeric film, containing an absorbent sponge or like tampon component. The sheath facilitates insertion and removal of the article by minimizing tissue attachment, adherence, abrasion, and desiccation of the tampon.

Abstract: A computer-based educational system for use by teacher and student users and including a server computer and at least one client computer having a display and user input device is disclosed. A lesson builder allows teachers to create customized lessons incorporating lesson material that includes text, audio, images, video and application programs into a lesson for delivery to the student user. Lesson material can be drawn from a variety of sources, including a lesson material data base, a database of existing lessons, and the Internet. Teachers can add interesting lesson material to the lesson material database for use by other teachers. Lesson material can be presented in a lesson directly or as a link, such that the student is presented with the material at the student's option. Students may access the Internet during execution of the lesson, and may collaborate with other students as well as the teacher.