Abstract: An architecture for a computer system for problem solving and tutoring includes multiple domain dependent agents, each having a knowledge base, multiple domain independent agents and dedicated blackboards assigned to each agent. The agents communicate with their dedicated blackboards via a transmission control protocol/internet protocol (TCP/IP) links and messages are moved between the blackboards by a blackboard agent. The domain independent agents include a control agent that passes a token between the agents. An agent may function only when it has the token. The domain independent agents also include a user interface agent, a database agent and a tutoring agent. Training/testing data repository and student databases are also present. The latter stores information regarding student actions during testing or tutoring sessions. The architecture may be employed on multiple machines to permit geographically diverse users to simultaneously role-play.

Abstract: Talking toys perform simulated conversations with one another. The toys each include a forest of decision graphs. The forest of decision graphs is the same for each toy. Each of the decision graphs corresponds to a conversation and includes a number of nodes, each of which corresponds to a portion of the conversation. The nodes also include one or more contexts which connect the nodes to children nodes. As a result, the selection of the context directs the progression of conversation. The toys select a decision graph/conversation that includes all or most of the toys as participants. The conversation is then performed as the toys traverse the selected decision graph. The toys transfer messages back and forth via a wireless transmission and reception arrangement as they traverse the decision graph. The toys play the portions of the conversation through a speaker.

Abstract: An architecture for a computer system for problem solving and tutoring includes multiple domain dependent agents, each having a knowledge base, multiple domain independent agents and dedicated blackboards assigned to each agent. The agents communicate with their dedicated blackboards via a transmission control protocol/internet protocol (TCP/IP) links and messages are moved between the blackboards by a blackboard agent. The domain independent agents include a control agent that passes a token between the agents. An agent may function only when it has the token. The domain independent agents also include a user interface agent, a database agent and a tutoring agent. Training/testing data repository and student databases are also present. The latter stores information regarding student actions during testing or tutoring sessions. The architecture may be employed on multiple machines to permit geographically diverse users to simultaneously role-play.