Abstract: A method of providing an automated learning sequence includes pretesting a user with at least one question from each of a plurality of learning objectives. The results of the evaluations of the pretesting process are used to produce a specific sequence of instructional units in response to those responses that varied materially from the respective standard. The sequence of instructional units is then presented to the user for interactive learning.

Abstract: Providing methods and systems for a computer-aided group-learning environment, where a number of users can interact and work on a subject together. The system and method can monitor and analyze users' inputs. The analysis process can identify a user's performance on the subject, and can understand some of the user's traits, such as confidence level and learning attitude. The system can include an interaction controller, which sets a duration of time for the users to communicate in a dialogue environment. Working on the subject in a group and working alone can be intertwined. For example, the users first work on the materials generated individually, and then solve the problem together in a dialogue environment. During the dialogue session, the interaction controller can provide hints to the users. The system can also include a user registry, which restricts the users who can use the embodiment to work on the subject.

Abstract: A system is disclosed that provides a goal based learning system utilizing a rule based expert training system to provide a cognitive educational experience. The system provides the user with a simulated environment that presents a business opportunity to understand and solve optimally. Mistakes are noted and remedial educational material presented dynamically to build the necessary skills that a user requires for success in the business endeavor. The system utilizes an artificial intelligence engine driving individualized and dynamic feedback with synchronized video and graphics used to simulate real-world environment and interactions. Multiple "correct" answers are integrated into the learning system to allow individualized learning experiences in which navigation through the system is at a pace controlled by the learner.

Abstract: The invention includes a teaching machine that presents questions to the user who responds with answers. Graded interval recall is accomplished by storing the exact time and date when the user learns a correct answer. The machine determines the presentation mode and review schedule for each unit according to the length of real time that has elapsed since the user learns the material. Precise timing is designed to bridge the threshold between short-term and long-term memory by interrupting default sequencing of material to review items at an exact preset interval from the time the user learned the material.

Abstract: A help demonstration player program is provided which accepts a set of commands in the form of a script input and generates simulated keystrokes and mouse events. The keystrokes and mouse events are provided to the application program which then operates as if the user had generated the keystrokes and mouse events. The sequence of keystrokes and mouse events directs the application software to perform a task one step at a time. Since the task starts with the user's customized screen and detects and responds to the state of the user's desktop through the demonstration, the resulting animated display is tailored to the user's actual display, presenting much more meaningful and less confusing instructions to the user. The demonstration player creates sample data so that the user's actual data is not corrupted during the playing of the explanatory sequence and user control over the keyboard and mouse is disabled to prevent the user from interfering with the demonstration.

Abstract: A method and system for generating and formatting information, specifically test questions, in a desirable and predetermined manner. The system has dynamic-content and dynamic-presentation capabilities so that a wide variety of test problems and, ultimately, tests which consist of test problems can be created. The system includes a data processor such as a personal computer having a means for storing at least one computer program and a means for printing indicia such as a laser printer. The software component of the system includes an authoring tool which is used to create generalized expressions of a problem. A variation rules module or engine stores the variations rules which are a language for describing how to create varying questions from the generalized expression or definition of and a problem created in the authoring tool. Then another component of the software, the print engine interprets the variation rules and produces screen displays or printed tests.

Abstract: A system is disclosed that provides a goal based learning system utilizing a rule based expert training system to provide a cognitive educational experience. The system provides the user with a simulated environment that presents a business opportunity to understand and solve optimally. Mistakes are noted and remedial educational material presented dynamically to build the necessary skills that a user requires for success in the business endeavor. The system utilizes an artificial intelligence engine driving individualized and dynamic feedback with synchronized video and graphics used to simulate real-world environment and interactions. Multiple "correct" answers are integrated into the learning system to allow individualized learning experiences in which navigation through the system is at a pace controlled by the learner.

Abstract: A method for configuring an audio interface for a speech recognition application in a computer system in accordance with an inventive arrangement comprises the steps of: (a) digitally storing representations of pictures of a plurality of audio input and output devices compatible with the computer system, including: a headset with a microphone and an earpiece speaker; a microphone not forming part of a headset; at least one external speaker connected to the computer system; at least one internal speaker connected to the computer system; and, different combinations of the input and output audio devices; (b) displaying a sequence of graphical user interface (GUI) displays for: (1) selecting an audio input device and an audio output device; (2) connecting the selected audio output device; (3) testing the selected audio output device; (4) connecting a microphone; (5) testing the connected microphone; and, (6) testing the speech recognition application; and, (c) during each of the steps (b)(1) through (b)(6), inclu

Abstract: A system is disclosed that provides a goal based learning system utilizing a rule based expert training system to provide a cognitive educational experience. The system provides the user with a simulated environment that presents a business opportunity to understand and solve optimally. Mistakes are noted and remedial educational material presented dynamically to build the necessary skills that a user requires for success in the business endeavor. The system utilizes an artificial intelligence engine driving individualized and dynamic feedback with synchronized video and graphics used to simulate real-world environment and interactions. Multiple "correct" answers are integrated into the learning system to allow individualized learning experiences in which navigation through the system is at a pace controlled by the learner.

Abstract: A technique for providing a networked, distributed tutorial application having a direct manipulation graphical user interface displayable on an Internet client node is disclosed. The application has a first portion on an Internet server node and a second portion on the Internet client node, the first portion performing application specific subject matter processing and the second portion being substantially application independent in that this second portion is applicable in a wide variety of tutoring applications for generating and maintaining an appropriate user interface during user interactions. The second portion includes an Internet browser (e.g., a hypertext mark-up language browser) that is utilized for communicating with the server node to perform application subject matter specific processing.

Abstract: A system is disclosed that provides a goal based learning system utilizing a rule based expert training system to provide a cognitive educational experience. The system provides the user with a simulated environment that presents a business opportunity to understand and solve optimally. Mistakes are noted and remedial educational material presented dynamically to build the necessary skills that a user requires for success in the business endeavor. The system utilizes an artificial intelligence engine driving individualized and dynamic feedback with synchronized video and graphics used to simulate real-world environment and interactions. Multiple "correct" answers are integrated into the learning system to allow individualized learning experiences in which navigation through the system is at a pace controlled by the learner.

Abstract: A computer-based test assembly system and method for generating an assembly of test items. The test assembly process includes creating tests in electronic form from already-existing test items and allowing access by a plurality of assembly personnel and reviewers via a network. Assemblers select test items on-line for inclusion in an assembly. Electronic selection is accomplished by means of an automated item selection algorithm or through a manual, but electronic series of queries. The test assembly process also includes an automated test layout feature which automatically assembles a test from the selected items. When a test is assembled, an assembler uses an automated documentation feature which generates a comprehensive documentation of the completed assembly.

Abstract: The invention may be embedded in products or services that contain a microprocessor and a facility for communication. The resulting two-way interactive media enables relationships to be built with individual customers and groups of customers throughout a product's or service's life cycle. Customers may also be provided with automatic, portable in-use access to constantly updated information during product use, to increase user success and reduce costly and error-filled processes of acquiring product expertise. The invention may interact with customers, gather information from customers, communicate customer information securely to a vendor or external third party(ies), construct and transmit new pre-programmed interactions to the customer communications system in the product, and analyze and report customer information.

Abstract: A remote computer I/O apparatus comprising of a set of position tracked wireless user manipulated bodies and a host adapter station. Input is derived from the real-time position tracking telemetry received from each user manipulated body over a wireless transmitter housed in each body. Location determination is performed on a relative clustering basis using photonic light pulses, on a relative absolute special positioning basis using ultrasonic triangulation between bodies, or on a relative absolute spatial positioning basis between each body and the host adapter. For output each body may store or receive video and audio generated respectively by the controlled computer or by an sound generating device such as a soundcard running on the same. Stored feedback is emitted from each body upon receipt of playback signals transmitted to any selected bodies causing them to display stored video on a local body display or to emit stored audio segments out a local body speaker.

Abstract: Systems and methods for presentation to raters of constructed responses to test questions in electronic workfolders. The systems and methods provide for selection and designation of constructed responses into categories for use in quality control functions and training applications. A storage device is used to relationally store data regarding the raters, the constructed responses, and the scores awarded for use in selecting constructed responses for use in quality control and training. The system also comprises rater stations and processing systems for selectively transmitting constructed responses to the rater stations and receiving scores awarded by the raters assigned to the rater stations during both training and actual production scoring. The system further comprises rater stations and processing systems for displaying rater performance data, topic performance data, constructed response volume data, and candidate sample volume data.

Abstract: A system is disclosed that provides a goal based learning system utilizing a rule based expert training system to provide a cognitive educational experience. The system provides the user with a simulated environment that presents a business opportunity to understand and solve optimally. Mistakes are noted and remedial educational material presented dynamically to build the necessary skills that a user requires for success in the business endeavor. The system utilizes an artificial intelligence engine driving individualized and dynamic feedback with synchronized video and graphics used to simulate real-world environment and interactions. Multiple "correct" answers are integrated into the learning system to allow individualized learning experiences in which navigation through the system is at a pace controlled by the learner.

Abstract: Systems and methods for on-line essay evaluation offer students the opportunity to prepare practice essays, submit the essays to trained, expert readers, and retrieve an evaluation at the student's convenience. The system provides the capability for a user or test taker to submit essays at any time during the year, independent of the timing of an actual testing event, and to receive prompt, consistent evaluations of the submitted essays. Further, the system provides the capability to prioritize essays and schedule readers so that essays can be evaluated on a rush basis. The essays are evaluated in a manner that provides useful instructional feedback to students about their skills relative to any assessment or test that the student wishes to take.

Abstract: There is provided a building emergency simulator which can graphically and operationally reproduce various building fire alarm/voice communication/smoke control and other systems and provide means for training personnel to successfully operate systems and manage emergency situations. The emergency simulator includes a computer, screen and projection unit for viewing images received from the computer, software for creating an image of various building emergency systems and programmable for creating a simulation of a response of the building emergency systems to a desired emergency situation, microphone and handset and a trackball pointing device for interacting with the software program.

Abstract: An interactive multi media performance assessment system and process for use by students for creating multi media presentations based upon the task assignments generated by a teacher and utilizing any combination of text, audio and visual input sources. A series of workfolders are created by the student to view the issued task assignments and provide a vehicle for creating the multi media presentations. Resources such as Internet based connection and various audio visual items may be utilized with the system for assisting in the creation of the presentations and both the teachers and students may provide feedback in the form of text, audio or video. Additionally, administrators can provide feedback to teachers which in turn can be utilized for evaluation and suggested improvements.

Abstract: Language oriented information is communicated to and from a user by the use of a computer with a dynamic graphics display, having a pointing device for visually indicating a position through a cursor on the display. Various embodiments of the method include calling an icon to attention when the cursor is positioned on the icon, auto projecting an icon when it is activated, changing the icon image to denote its terminal node status, varying the play back speed of the audio/visual aspect of an icon, moving among different layers of a hierarchical database, and text searching and matching with icons.

Abstract: In accordance with this invention, a remote control for an interactive media can include a printed publication and/or a storage media and/or a data button. One embodiment of a remote control includes a printed publication (such as a book, magazine or a catalog) and one or more buttons physically attached to the printed publication to allow users to remotely control use of associated electronic content by a host device. Another embodiment of a remote control has a housing capable of removably holding a storage media encoded with electronic content associated with a button of the remote control. Yet another embodiment of a remote control has at least one data button which permits the user to select the data to be displayed by the host device. An autostart driver in the host device detects insertion of a storage media into a peripheral and automatically starts an application. The application interprets button codes transmitted by the remote control and displays the results or initiates other events.

Abstract: A student user of a client computer system uses a teaching process to promote development of cognitive skills of the student and a supervisor uses a second client computer to remotely monitor the progress of the student. The teaching process presents various types of stimuli to the student and records student response data which correspond to the stimuli. In addition, the teaching process forms evaluation data from the student response data where the evaluation data represents a correlation between the student response data for respective stimuli and predetermined correct response data for respective stimuli. Furthermore, the teaching process modifies its own behavior according to the evaluation data to thereby tailor the behavior of the teaching process to the cognitive abilities of the student. The student response data is uploaded to a global student database which is accessible to a supervisor user.

Abstract: A method and a system to teach a user a subject based on his questions. The system allows the user to control his learning process, and helps to fill in gaps of misunderstanding in the subject. In one embodiment, the system, including a database, presents study materials on the subject to the user. After working on the presented materials, the user enters his question into the system, which generates an answer to the question, and presents it to him. Then the system compares the question with one or more questions previously entered by the user to determine his understanding level in the subject. Based on the determination, the system may present to the user appropriate study materials. The user typically asks more than one question, and the process of answering his question by the system repeats.

Abstract: An educational method and system that assess and enhance a student's understanding in a subject. Based on the student's understanding, individually-tailored tests are generated, whose difficulties are geared towards the student's level of understanding in the subject. Thus, the student not only can use the tests to prepare for an examination, but can also use the tests to learn the subject. The system includes a score generator coupled to a recommendation generator. In one preferred embodiment, the recommendation generator includes an inference engine, and in another preferred embodiment, the recommendation generator includes a pre-requisite analyzer. Both the pre-requisite analyzer and the inference engine in the recommendation generator can generate recommendations based on the student's test results. The recommendation generator is coupled to a report generator and a question generator. The report generator accesses a report format.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for training the sensory perceptual system in a language learning impaired (LLI) subject is provided. The apparatus and method incorporates a number of different programs to be played by the subject. The programs artificially process selected portions of language elements, called phonemes, so they will be more easily distinguished by an LLI subject, and gradually improves the subject's neurological processing of the elements through repetitive stimulation. The programs continually monitor a subject's ability to distinguish the processed language elements, and adaptively configures the programs to challenge and reward the subject by altering the degree of processing. Through adaptive control and repetition of processed speech elements, and presentation of the speech elements in a creative fashion, a subject's temporal processing of acoustic events common to speech are significantly improved.

Abstract: A hazard perception test system comprising a CRT screen for displaying a sequence of images of a scene to be viewed by a test subject and in which at least one hazard appears, the images establishing a state of relative movement between the at least one hazard and the test subject, a computer for generating a select signal in response to an action by the subject, the select signal representing an image in the sequence selected by the subject as a point in the sequence at which to change the state, and for determining the ability of the subject to satisfactorily perceive hazards on the basis of the select signal.

Abstract: A system for controlling the administration of remotely proctored, secure examinations at a remote test station, and a method for administering examinations. The system includes a central station, a registration station and a remote testing station. The central station includes (a) storage device for storing data, including test question data and verified biometric data, and (b) a data processor, operably connected to the storage device, for comparing test taker biometric data with stored, verified biometric data.

Abstract: A karaoke network system is composed of a central station for serving a plurality of song data pieces, and a karaoke terminal connected to the central station through a communication network having multiple channels for selectively receiving therefrom one song data piece so as to locally present a desired karaoke song in response to a request, command. The central station includes a transmitter for sorting the plurality of song data pieces into a multiple of groups corresponding to the multiple channels to thereby transmit each group of the song data pieces successively to the corresponding channel in an endless manner. The karaoke terminal includes a receiver for selecting one of the channels designated by the request command and for picking up one song data piece specified by the same request command from the selected channel so that the karaoke terminal can present the desired karaoke song according to the picked up song data piece.

Abstract: Encoded data storage devices with stored data corresponding to: (a) information for coaching a user in accomplishing one or more steps of a specified task in a learn-then-perform way, and (b) an instruction set which enables the user access to access the information on a user-selected step of the task. Methods of providing and employing encoded data storage devices of the character just described.

Abstract: A multimedia computerized literacy system providing for and enhancing the teaching of Literacy Skills to enable people to function more effectively in schools, society, and the workplace. The design of the system is based on the identification and understanding of the structures, contents, and strategies which underlie prose, document, and quantitative literacy. In particular, the system's design is based, in part, on the Knowledge Model Procedure, which builds upon a unique taxonomy of document structures, contents, and strategies in a way that facilitates the transfer of Literacy Skills across the wide array of document types, as well as across quantitative and prose Literacy Skills. In accordance with the Knowledge Model Procedure, the computerized literacy system, through a series of structure and use lessons, provides students with the skills to perform document, prose, and quantitative tasks of increasing complexity.

Abstract: A compensatory assistive device for people with cognitive impairment (including but not limited to traumatic brain injury, stroke, electrocution, anoxia, mental retardation, dementia, amnesia, and learning disabilities) and/or physical disabilities (such as cerebral palsy) is provided via an interactive computer system that provides an easy-to-use money manager, directory, scheduler, telephone log, writer and information station using a graphical user interface configured with particular color associations, pointer travel limitations, simplified option selections and active view-screen limitations.

Abstract: A computerized learning approach that enables a user to improve their performance on multiple-choice exams is disclosed. Although the learning approach includes various aspects and implementations, in general, the invention forces test-takers to practice their examination skills and subject matter knowledge in a systematic way. The systematic way forces the users to follow a proven problem-solving approach designed to improve their performance. The invention provides important performance feedback to user's, for example, elapsed time per question and percentage of correctly answered questions. The invention can also pinpoint for the user the substantive areas of the exam which the user is either weak or strong. Further, the invention is able to assist the user in predicting his/her eventual score.

Abstract: A compensatory assistive device for students with cognitive impairment (including but not limited to traumatic brain injury, stroke, electrocution, anoxia, mental retardation, dementia, amnesia, and learning disabilities) and/or physical disabilities (such as cerebral palsy) is provided via an interactive computer system that provides an easy-to-use, multi-subject, school planner using a graphical user interface configured with particular color associations, pointer travel limitations, simplified option selections and active view-screen limitations.

Abstract: Several parts of speech, including sentences, words and phrases, in multiple languages, Japanese and English, for instance, are stored in a ROM; and some of the parts of speech include an addition-permitting flag indicating that a word or phrase can be added to these parts of speech. Words and phrases that may be added to the stored syntactical structures are also stored in the ROM. In response to user input, a desired syntactical structure is read from the ROM and displayed. When the displayed syntactical structure has an addition-permitting flag, a predetermined symbol near the displayed syntactical structure is displayed, and a desired word or phrase is read from the ROM and added to the displayed syntactical structure in response to a user input. Upon depression of a key, the resulting syntactical structure is translated into another language.

Abstract: A cooperative, interactive computer logic instruction system is disclosed in which students participate by performing individual gate and component functions. These functions are linked together by connections carrying power, ground, and signals to form a cooperative logic system distributed over the entire class. Individual components range from gates and other low-level electronics up through larger scale devices and computer components. An important aspect of this invention is that each student linked in the system must actually perform the assigned function themselves in order to generate the proper output which then feeds as input to other students in the system. In this manner, entire logic circuits, computers, and networks may be modeled and understood. In addition to the manual mode described above, each component also supports an automatic mode for demonstration, error checking, and completion of circuits not exactly suited to the particular number of students in a given classroom situation.

Abstract: A computerized learning machine for implementing adaptive problem solving includes an information processing device, a storage device, an output device and an input device. The adaptive problem solving method is implemented by: a) retrieving from the storage device a first question; b) outputting to the output device the first question; c) receiving from the input device an answer from the user; d) assigning a fuzzy logic coefficient to the answer; e) accessing from the storage device a learning route authority to determine the identity of a second question, the determination being dependent on the fuzzy logic coefficient; and f) repeating steps a) to e) for the second question.

Abstract: The invention proposes a method of defining and generating cooperating object structures for accessing Business Applications (BAs) which were not built upon the principles of object orientation (OO) in an OO manner. One step of the method is targeted at the definition of true Business Object (BO) classes with a unique meaning as entities or concepts in terms of the underlying business as supported by the BA. As the BAs process the business relevant data, their spectrum of the input and output parameters serve to define the BO Attributes (BOAs) of the individual BO classes. A further step of the method is the encapsulation of the individual BAs within Transactional Object (TO) classes for controlling and executing the BAs. TO instances are able to autonomously extract BOA values from the BO instances to assemble the input parameters for BA execution. The TO instances are also endowed to process the output parameters as returned by the BA to materialize BOs, i.e.

Abstract: A Method and System to teach a user a subject based on his questions. The system allows the user to control his learning process, and helps to fill in gaps of misunderstanding in the subject. In one embodiment, the system, including a database, presents study materials on the subject to the user. After working on the presented materials, the user enters his question into the system, which generates an answer to the question, and presents it to him. Then the system compares the question with one or more questions previously entered by the user to determine his understanding level in the subject. Based on the determination, the system may present to the user appropriate study materials. The user typically asks more than one question, and the process of answering his question by the system repeats.

Abstract: A computer system for therapeutically assisting in rehabilitation of patients having cognitive deficits. The system includes a base computer data processor, a remotely located therapist computer data processor adapted for remote modem communication with the base processor and a portable programmable data processor that is adapted for mobile use by the patient and is dockable to the base processor. The base, therapist and portable processors are programmed for uploading programming to the portable processor with prescribed patient activity information through the base processor and interface from the remote therapist processor for controlling the operation of the portable processor to communicate the prescribed information to the patient on a scheduled basis. The system is also programmed for downloading patient activity response information form the portable processor to the therapist processor for analysis.

Abstract: A remote learning system combines on-line service information and remote user information with a television signal designed to be received by students using multimedia personal computers. The combined signal is then transmitted to all of the students at their personal computers. At each personal computer, the received signal is separated into its component parts by a VBI modem for display or control on/of the personal computers. Each personal computer is capable of communicating back to a main server over a network such as a public telephone network. A broadcasting facility integrates the information transmitted over the network from a single student with the television signal.

Abstract: The system for carrying out educational management for a plurality of students according to the present invention comprises a first processing device for managing a plurality of students and a plurality of second processing devices as a processing device for the student. The first processing device includes an objective reference defining unit for defining an objective reference list by inputting the reference of objectives of achievement of a plurality of educational items; and a communication unit for delivering the objective reference list defined by the objective reference defining unit and an educational item list consisting of a plurality of educational items, to the second processing devices.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for computer based testing. The system of the present invention comprises a test development system for producing a computerized test, a test delivery system for delivering the computerized test to an examinee, and a workstation on which the computerized test is delivered to the examinee. The method of the present invention comprises producing a computerized test, delivering the computerized test to an examinee and recording examinee responses to questions presented to the examinee during the delivery of the computerized test. A method of producing a computerized test is also provided. This method comprises preparing a test document of items, computerizing each item, preparing scripts and other test components and packaging the items, scripts and other test components together to form the computerized test.

Abstract: In a given environment where a user may work, play, or otherwise interact, such as the environment provided by a system comprising computer hardware and software, the present invention provides a method, computer program product, and system for teaching reinforcing concepts, principals, and other learned information without requiring user initiation of a learning sequence. Learning or reinforcement occurs by presenting "learning frames" in the environment automatically without requiring user initiation of the learning sequence. The user of the environment receives these intrusive or non-intrusive opportunities for learning while doing other tasks within the environment and may be interrupted from the task at hand and be required to respond to the presented learning frame or may simply have the opportunity for learning without requiring interruption of the task at hand according to the implementation of the present invention.

Abstract: A system and method for training a user on any number of computer software applications. The computer is directed by at least one computer program within a distribution engine 15 to perform a diagnosis of the skill level of a user on a computer software application, prescribe a training plan that will allow the user to achieve a minimum skill level on the computer software application, and provide the user access to a plurality of training software programs to enable a user to complete the training plan.

Abstract: A method of generating a simulation of a visual display of a computer session, includes the step of recording a visual display of a computer session by providing a journal record hook in binary format. Each message associated with each input from a computer input device is then recorded. After each message, the screen is checked for screen changes associated with each input from the computer input device and if detected, location coordinates of a screen change location are recorded and a detected screen change is copied as a bitmap. Cursor changes associated with each input from a computer input device are checked, and if detected, a cursor identification is recorded. The recorded visual display is then played back by providing a journal playback hook in binary format. An invisible window is then created to draw on and each recorded message is played back. It is also determined if there is a corresponding recorded cursor change and a corresponding screen change.

Abstract: The apparatus for teaching science and engineering is an interactive multimedia computer system which is used to simulate the performance of scientific experiments on the computer screen. An experiment is a method for determining the value of one experimental parameter by measuring the value of another using an experimental configuration of devices and apparatus. The interactions of the devices and apparatus in the experimental configuration are governed by a relationship among the experimental parameters that define the configuration. The user of the teaching apparatus assembles a pictorial representation of the experimental configuration on the computer screen and interacts with the pictured experimental configuration to simulate the performance of an experiment. The pictured experimental configuration is governed by the same relationship among experimental parameters as the real configuration and thus, the results of the simulated experiment match the results of the experiment performed in the laboratory.

Abstract: A method and a system is disclosed that provide means to enable individuals with speech, language and reading based communication disabilities, due to a temporal processing problem, to improve their temporal processing abilities as well as their communication abilities. The method and system include provisions to elongate portions of phonemes that have brief and/or rapidly changing acoustic spectra, such as occur in the stop consonants b and d in the phonemes /ba/ and /da/, as well as reduce the duration of the steady state portion of the syllable. In addition, some emphasis is added to the rapidly changing segments of these phonemes. Additionally, the disclosure includes method for and computer software to modify fluent speech to make the modified speech better recognizable by communicatively impaired individuals. Finally, the disclosure includes method for and computer software to train temporal processing abilities, specifically speed and precision of temporal integration, sequencing and serial memory.

Abstract: A karaoke network system includes a central station for serving karaoke data and image data, and a group of karaoke terminals connected to the central station through a communication line having a common channel and a plurality of parallel channels for locally presenting a karaoke accompaniment and a background picture. The central station includes a first server responsive to a request command from karaoke terminal for transmitting to the common channel requested karaoke data individually addressed to the karaoke terminal, and a second server operative independently of the first server for transmitting to the parallel channels a plurality of different image data continuously broadcast to each karaoke terminal.

Abstract: A computer, responsive to user input, controls the presentation of an audio-visual work to a user. Through the selection of several interactive learning options, support and reinforcement of the learning process is provided. In particular, the computer interacts with the user to challenge the user's understanding of the audio-visual work. In connection with the presentation of foreign language works, the user interacts with the computer in role playing, transcription, translation, fill-in-the-blanks and speech repetition activities designed to teach the user to speak the foreign language. Furthermore, as the audio-visual work is presented, a computer generated transcription or translation is displayed for user contemplation, and the user may interact with the computer by requesting the display of grammatical, cultural and geographic notes the further assist in the learning process.

Abstract: A computerized method is provided for helping students in acquiring and developing the ability to perform an art or skill. This is done in an interactive sequence wherein responses made by a student to inquiries and directives are digitized and compared with hidden idealized parameters and with previous responses, and an evaluation is communicated to the student with encouragements.