Abstract: In part, the disclosure relates to a computer-implemented system for managing a data storage system comprising a plurality of data storage nodes. The system includes at least one processor and an operatively associated storage device. The at least one processor is programmed to: monitor utilization of at least one data object stored at the data storage system as a coded data object comprising a first total number of data blocks, wherein each of the first number of data blocks is stored at a separate data storage node, and wherein an original data object is re-creatable from a first base number of data blocks selected from the first total number of data blocks; determine that the utilization of the at least one data object has changed; and modify a number of the plurality of data storage nodes that store data blocks of the coded data object.

Abstract: In one aspect, the invention is directed to an interactive method for teaching a foreign language. The method includes displaying a translation of a target word selected by a user from a reading material, testing the user's assimilation of the target word, evaluating results of the testing to obtain an evaluation outcome; and adding the target word to an active vocabulary associated with the user or retaining the target word as unassimilated, depending on the evaluation outcome. Testing can be based on recognition or reproduction techniques. In preferred examples, the method further includes providing the reading material. In another aspect, the invention is related to a system for teaching a foreign language, the system including a link for requesting and receiving translation of a word from a global vocabulary and a module capable of generating drill exercises for prompting assimilation of the word.