Abstract: A system including a scanning apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system has (a) an article having (i) a surface having a plurality of positions and a plurality of print elements respectively at the plurality of positions, and (ii) a plurality of codes respectively at the plurality of positions and relating to absolute or relative locations of the positions. The system also has (b) a scanning apparatus comprising (i) a stylus having an optical detector and an optical emitter, (ii) a processor coupled to the optical detector and the optical emitter, (iii) a memory unit comprising code for audio corresponding to the print elements, the memory unit coupled to the processor, and (iv) an audio output device coupled to the processor.

Abstract: A method for assisting a user in learning is provided. The method may comprise receiving performance information of a user after the user uses an interactive learning appliance. The user performance information is generated by the user's use of the interactive learning appliance which is adapted to educate the user about one or more predetermined subjects. The performance information, which may be in the form of a user log file, may be received at a server computer from a site where the user is present.

Abstract: A method for producing an output in response to an interaction with a print element on a sheet is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes placing a sheet comprising a print element on a surface of a base unit. A user can then mark on the sheet in the vicinity of the print element with a marking instrument. An audio output that corresponds to the print element is generated.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel interactive information system which can be used to make a traditional print medium such as a magazine, “interactive”. When the traditional print medium is placed on a print media receiving unit in a predetermined position, a user can interact with the traditional print medium. Printed matter elements on the printed medium can be made “selectable” by the user.

Abstract: Interactive books are disclosed. An example includes a front cover and a rear cover. At least one page is between the front and rear covers. A binder couples the front cover, the rear cover, and the at least one page together. An antenna is in the rear cover. A stylus is coupled to either the front or the rear cover, and an output device such as a speaker is coupled to the front or the rear cover.

Abstract: A print media receiving unit is disclosed. In one embodiment, the print media receiving unit comprises a platform that includes a surface adapted to receive a print medium comprising a spine. The spine may be disposed in a spine receiving portion in the platform. A location detection system capable of determining a location of a selected region of the print medium may be associated with the platform.

Abstract: An interactive print media apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, it comprises a platform comprising a surface, an electronic position location system, and a print medium including a prescribed location. A user can write in the prescribed location.

Abstract: A portable, hand held interactive learning appliance for assisting a user in learning is disclosed. The interactive learning appliance includes a housing, a processor disposed in the housing, an input device operatively coupled to the processor, an output device operatively coupled to the processor, and a computer readable medium including code for causing the portable, hand held interactive learning appliance to adapt to the user's intelligence or knowledge level by presenting problems that are suitable for the user's intelligence or knowledge level to the user.