Abstract: A flash card or other type display member is disclosed in which one or more display surfaces are provided for displaying a first indicia, preferably educational indicia. A flap is provided on display surface for optionally revealing a second indicia associated with the first indicia.

Abstract: The present invention provides caregivers with pragmatic systems and methods for implementing current knowledge of early childhood brain development and for facilitating meaningful interaction with a child in their care. The invention further provides systems and methods that enable caregivers to provide a child with a stimulating environment that includes purposeful activities in a playful, interactive context.

Abstract: Teaching reading for test-taking is included where a reading passage and questions are displayed. The questions include an evidence set and a thinking set, where the evidence set includes one or more evidence questions designed to be answered by referring to the reading passage, and where the thinking questions are designed to be answered by analyzing at least a portion of the reading passage. A marking input is received including at least one marking corresponding to a portion of the reading passage, where the at least one marking includes at least one indicator. Each indicator indicates a category of text associated with each marked portion of the reading passage. A determination is made as to whether the reading passage includes an appropriate portion of the reading passage. A response is evaluated according to the determination.

Abstract: Described are a system and method for encouraging communication over a network between participants engaged in a learning activity. A communication channel is opened over the network between participants. An objective shared by the participants is presented. Cooperative interaction between the participants is required to complete the objective. Content related to the objective is displayed to each participant of the learning activity. Messages are exchanged in real-time between the participants over the communication channel to allow the participants to progress cooperatively towards completing the objective. Input from one of the participants of the learning activity is received. The input represents an action taken in response to the exchanged messages. The content displayed to the participants is dynamically updated based on the action taken by one of the participants during the learning activity, to depict progress towards the objective.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for language teaching that involves training to an automatic level a set of core vocabulary items, and then presenting learned items in combination as a means of implicitly teaching grammar. In one aspect, a method for teaching a language, consistent with the invention, comprises: (a) while displaying to a learner a graphical representation of a vocabulary item comprising at least one word, playing to the learner an audio recording comprising the spoken form of the vocabulary item; and (b) while displaying to a learner both a graphical representation of the vocabulary item and the written form of the vocabulary item, playing to the learner an audio recording comprising the spoken form of the vocabulary item.

Abstract: A system for providing customized audio content, based on a client-server communication network, includes a means for producing a plurality of audio content with different attributes; and a content-providing server for converting the plurality of audio content into digital audio files that are stored with and linked to the corresponding script. A contents file with specific attributes is provided via the communication network to a user after being requested.

Abstract: Computer software and portable memory for an electronic educational toy designed to stimulate the development of a child's mind using audio feedback, the educational toy including an enclosure enclosing a processor, data storage medium and a speaker and having a substantially planar surface for being contacted by the child.

Abstract: Methods, devices, and computer program products display visual choral speech to a patient who stutters or has a speech impediment or impairment as a visual stimulus for the patient to enhance the fluency of the patient. The visual choral speech is incongruous with the speech produced by the stutterer and is provided by a visual display of the articulatory movements of a person other than the patient (or a simulated representation thereof) of the person's lips and mouth as the person speaks. The visual speech gestures can be displayed to the patient in advance of a speaking event or speech production by the stutterer and/or concurrently with a speaking event (either intermittently or continuous during the speaking event). The visual choral speech gestures can be based on a string of coherent words to provide the visual speech gestures signal such that it is relayed to the user without the attendant auditory component allowing the user to speak at a substantially normal pace with enhanced fluency.

Abstract: An electronic educational toy having a housing for teaching letters, words, numbers or pictures comprising a toy housing supporting a substantially planar work platform on which a child can make selections by causing contact with the work platform and enclosing a speaker, a processor, and a sensing system sensing occurrences of contact caused by the child across the surface of the work platform.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for determining the identification of selected objects for use in connection with an electronic children's toy, which apparatus includes a plurality of objects, each of the objects including several object contact elements, and an identification member, including several member contact elements. The identification member is configured such that at least two of the member contact elements come into electrical contact with at least two of the object contact elements when the identification member is engaged with one of the objects, forming a complete electrical circuit. A processing unit associated with the identification member then is able to uniquely identify the particular object which is engaged with the identification member by means of an electrical signal generated by the processing unit. The processing unit then provides feedback to the user by audio, visual and/or tactile means corresponding to the particular object selected by the user.

Abstract: A method of learning and apparatus useful therein in which a card carrying a visual representation of a concept to be learned in displayed through a window carried on a common-use article, such as luggage items, decorative desk or table accouterments.

Abstract: A computerized interactor system uses physical, three-dimensional objects as metaphors for input of user intent to a computer system. When one or more interactors are engaged with a detection field, the detection field reads an identifier associated with the object and communicates the identifier to a computer system. The computer system determines the meaning of the interactor based upon its identifier and upon a semantic context in which the computer system is operating. One specific embodiment of the present invention is a bead interactor system that is a user playable sound and light show system. When an interactor bead is positioned within the detection space of the bead interactor system, a sound sequence begins and continues to play unaltered until the bead interactor is removed or other bead interactors are positioned within or removed from the detection space.

Abstract: A phonetic transliteration card display includes a display board to which a plurality of display cards can be secured removably. The card display enables a person who speaks a first language, but not a second language, to speak simple phrases in the second language and be understood by a listener who speaks only the second language. This result is accomplished by displaying a source phrase in the first language on each display card, along with a target phrase that constitutes a translation of the source phrase in the second language. A phonetic transliteration of the target phrase is displayed in the first language. When the phonetic transliteration is read aloud by the speaker, the listener will hear, and therefore understand, the target phrase. The cards can be color-coded by subject matter, if desired. The display board contains a chamber that permits a number of display cards to be stored. The display board is constructed such that a number of similar boards can be connected to each other.

Abstract: Methods and systems for delivering multimedia learning modules to one or more students in a computer based education environment. The multimedia education system includes a host server, communication link connecting the host server to a remote computer, and software operable on the host server and remote computer. Methods include providing: a set of global knowledge/vocabulary words with high interest expository text and graphics; a contextual definition for at least one of the words; or an additional set of vocabulary words presented as a pair of synonyms for a new stimulus word. A method includes causing a student to select an appropriate synonym to replace the stimulus word based on another high interest expository text. A method includes providing a game scenario including a multisensory scenario, wherein the student must select an appropriate synonym or a pair of synonyms from a number of synonyms to complete a task in a game.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the representation of a characters or language constructs via supplemental or alternative visual stimuli. The present invention may be utilized to augment language acquisition via spelling or foreign language tutorials by associating unique colors with traditional representation of the language constructs. Additionally, the present invention may be utilized to implement computer scanning applications by representation of language constructs via unique colors and a simple geometric shape.

Abstract: A language learning system is provided. The language learning system typically includes a set of fictional characters, each character being associated with a predetermined phoneme of a language, such as English. The character typically has a given name including the phoneme. The system may further include a learning device configured to display at least one of the characters along with an associated letter corresponding to the phoneme. The device may be a wheel, block, vessel, card, doll, disk, cone, or other suitable device.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of generating acrostic mnemonic devices from finite data sets of customized areas of specific interest provided by the user to assist in improving the memory of the user. The apparatus provides a personalized mnemonic generating program embodied on a computer-readable medium for improving a users' memory of finite data sets based on the user's customized areas of interest to generate easy “to-be-remembered” acrostic mnemonic devices in the form of meaningful grammatically correct sentences. The method generates acrostic mnemonic devices from finite data sets whereby customized areas of specific interest are provided by the user to assist in improving the memory of the user which is executed by a computing device.

Abstract: A system and method for generating an interactive story is provided comprising a system that prompts an individual with a image or photograph and provides a set of active and descriptive words relating to the picture, as well as a set of predetermined, commonly-used parts of speech and phrases, including articles, verbs, prepositions, and conjunctives. The user is instructed to write an essay, short story, letter or poem online employing only said given set of active and descriptive words relating to the common picture. The completed textual work may then be submitted to a contest or posted for others to read and critique.

Abstract: A caption type language learning system utilizing a communication network is disclosed. The system includes a captioning language training network server 11 for data-basing the data for respective learning fields. A communication switching station 12 receives the captioning language learning data through the network. A satellite switching station 13 transmits the data suitable to the communication characteristics through a communication network. The system further includes wire and wireless communication terminals 18, 19, 28, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 and 27 for receiving captioning language learning data from an external communication network. A wireless communication terminal having a captioning language learning function or a captioning language training terminal 21 receives captioning language learning data through the wire switching station 17 or directly from an external communication network.

Abstract: An audio-visual method of learning a foreign language, which can be practiced using a video projection screen with concomitant audio, or a television includes the steps of: showing the program (in a foreign language) in its original form; showing either a sequence of frozen scenes or a sequence of short program segments, each frozen scene or segment including a single statement by one of the program participants, along with a transcription and a translation of the statement; reshowing the program in its original form; reshowing the sequence of frozen scenes or short program segments, along with only a transcription of the associated statement; and reshowing the program in its original form. Statements by program participants may be shown as subtitles or as dialog balloons such as those used in comic books. Short program segments may end with a frozen frame, which includes the translation and/or transcription.

Abstract: A method of teaching pronunciation is provided which includes communicating by a voice portal server to a user a model word and detecting a response by the user to the voice portal server. The method also includes comparing the response word to the model word and determining a confidence level based on the comparison of the response word to the model word. The method further includes comparing an acceptance limit to the confidence level and confirming a correct pronunciation of the model word if the confidence level one of equals and exceeds the acceptance limit.

Abstract: Teaching reading for test-taking is included where a reading passage and questions are displayed. The questions include an evidence set and a thinking set, where the evidence set includes one or more evidence questions designed to be answered by referring to the reading passage, and where the thinking questions are designed to be answered by analyzing at least a portion of the reading passage. A marking input is received including at least one marking corresponding to a portion of the reading passage, where the at least one marking includes at least one indicator. Each indicator indicates a category of text associated with each marked portion of the reading passage. A determination is made as to whether the reading passage includes an appropriate portion of the reading passage. A response is evaluated according to the determination.

Abstract: There is provided a method and system designed to (1) coach school children who have responded poorly to group writing instruction to obtain mastery in writing, and (2) allow peer students and parents, even with minimal training, to educate students who are failing in literacy. The disclosed methodology enables tutors and parents to teach how to write well without having to explain how to write well.

Abstract: An electronic educational toy designed to stimulate the development of a child's mind, the educational toy providing audio and/or visual prompts to present a problem to the child whose solution is entered by the child manipulating the toy.

Abstract: An authoring tool and method of use that allows the user to create sets of target multimedia learning material for use in computer-assisted education and computer-based training. The tool include a series of prompts to guide the user through the process, algorithms for the format of the material into a usable a form for various systems, and required database structure with populated tables. One variation includes two distinct features, including Talking Photo Software and Smart Cards. The authoring tool enables any user to create Talking Photos, by enabling the user to gather, collate and correlate multimedia assets for storage and retrieval. The authoring tool also enables any user similarly to create Smart Cards, which include features for determination of review timing, sequence and presentation modes, dependant on user profiles, which are based on data integral software developed over time, indicating which specific learning elements to target.

Abstract: A system where a child or other individual arranges one or more computer-recognizable characters on a working platform to spell words or provide a mathematical result in response to computer generated questions or prompts, the system then indicating whether the words or mathematical result is correct.

Abstract: A system where a child or other individual arranges one or more computer-recognizable characters on a working platform to spell words or provide a mathematical result in response to computer generated questions or prompts, the system then indicating whether the words or mathematical result is correct.

Abstract: A system and method for developing a curriculum for stimulating cognitive processing. In one embodiment the system includes an objective subsystem configured to obtain at least one goal, objectives and skills for each of the objectives from a user, and a correlation subsystem configured to assign the objectives and the skills to cognitive processing categories (CPCs), and divide the skills into information processing stage classes (IPSCs). The system further includes a sequencing subsystem configured to sequence the skills initially based upon the IPSCs and subsequently upon the CPCs. In one embodiment the method includes placing at least one goal, objectives and skills for each of the objectives into a list, and assigning the objective and the skills to CPCs. The method further includes dividing the skills into IPSCs, and arranging the skills initially based upon the IPSCs and subsequently upon the CPCs.

Abstract: A learning system based on the use of games such as crossword puzzles to increase skills in learning languages. Clue lists and word lists are used to generate game matrices. Word lists are words or phrases in one language; clues may be words in another language, signs for learning sign language, and pictorial scenes such as an airport, hotel, for example. Word lists are inserted in a computer and a game matrix is generated using stored game generation software. The game may be displayed on the computer screen where a clue list and a matrix are displayed for the use of one or more persons to play. Multiple copies may be printed on all types of printed media, single sheets, pamphlets, magazines, newspapers and books. Networked computers enable several players to compete at one time. Principal relationship between the clues and word lists is the basis for a progressive learning process where the material for each successive game is designed to become increasing comprehensive.

Abstract: The present invention is a method of associating visual symbols with verbal expression including the steps of preselecting a language having both verbal and written expressions, establishing an array of sounds employed in the verbal expression of the language, assembling an array of symbols correlating to the first array of sounds according to the language, associating a mechanical physiologic cue with each sound in the array of sounds, and animating the array of symbols according to the mechanical physiologic cues.

Abstract: A language learning system and method with a visualized pronunciation suggestion is disclosed. A sound wave corresponding to a sample voice output is used to suggest the user to make corrections with respect to tones and stresses. Through sectional evaluations and corrections, the invention can effectively improve the speaking ability of the user. The disclosed system includes a language database, a follow-reading module, a display control module, a sectional evaluation module, a correction module, and a suggestion-editing module. The disclosed method includes the steps of: extracting a full-sentence sample, outputting a full-sentence voice message and an associated message, prompting the user to imitate and recording the voice data, comparing the voice data with the full-sentence voice message and outputting the similarity, and evaluating the voice data.

Abstract: A system and method for assisting language learning through process of listening and typing. A learner listens to a speech, answers questions by typing. The process helps the learner memorizing through keying answering text. The system monitors the learner's response and provides dynamic hints for finishing the answer so as to increase the learner's interest and to improve learning efficiency. A system of the invention includes a speech database, a speech playing module, a dynamic hints module, an input analysis module, an input monitoring module and a playing setting module. A method of the invention includes steps of: playing speech to the learner; receiving learner's response to the speech playing; providing dynamic analysis and hints to help the learner's response, and finally providing checking results for the learner's inputs.

Abstract: Learning system using pre-existing entertainment media such as feature films on DVD or music or CD in connection with augmented language-learning content stored in a companion file. A player for viewing or listening the augmented content and the entertainment media. The player may include features such as parental control, position tracking, and an inference engine.

Abstract: Language learning system using pre-existing entertainment media such as feature films on DVD in connection with augmented language-learning content stored in a companion file. A player for viewing the augmented content and the entertainment media. An editor to create and manage companion source files and create associations with the entertainment media.

Abstract: A system where a child or other individual arranges one or more-computer-recognizable characters on a working platform to spell words or provide a mathematical result in response to computer generated questions or prompts, the system then indicating whether the words or mathematical result is correct.

Abstract: A system where a child or other individual arranges one or more computer-recognizable characters on a working platform to spell words or provide a mathematical result in response to computer generated questions or prompts, the system then indicating whether the words or mathematical result is correct.

Abstract: A system where a child or other individual arranges one or more computer-recognizable characters on a working platform to spell words or provide a mathematical result in response to computer generated questions or prompts, the system then indicating whether the words or mathematical result is correct.

Abstract: A system where a child or other individual arranges one or more computer-recognizable characters on a working platform to spell words or provide a mathematical result in response to computer generated questions or prompts, the system then indicating whether the words or mathematical result is correct.

Abstract: A system where a child or other individual arranges one or more computer-recognizable characters on a working platform to spell words or provide a mathematical result in response to computer generated questions or prompts, the system then indicating whether the words or mathematical result is correct.

Abstract: A system where a child or other individual arranges one or more computer-recognizable characters on a working platform to spell words or provide a mathematical result in response to computer generated questions or prompts, the system then indicating whether the words or mathematical result is correct.

Abstract: An electronic toy appliance for use with interchangeable graspable objects such as blocks or tiles, the toy appliance designed to stimulate the development of a child's mind using audio feedback.

Abstract: A system where a child or other individual arranges one or more computer-recognizable characters on a working platform to spell words or provide a mathematical result in response to computer generated questions or prompts, the system then indicating whether the words or mathematical result is correct.

Abstract: An educational software system is disclosed which includes interactive notes which automatically adapt to each student. Each note represents an individual item to learn and has an associated mastery level which is visually represented for the student. Built-in activities are provided which serve the dual purpose of providing practice and measurement in a multi-sensory, rapid response environment with immediate and specific feedback. The mastery level of each note is automatically adjusted by the student's performance. The software automatically selects notes to be practiced along with the activity to be used, thereby optimizing the student's practice time. The algorithm used for this selection takes into account such factors as the current mastery level of each note and the length of time since the note was last practiced.

Abstract: An electronic educational toy designed to teach letters, words and numbers and stimulate the development of a child's mind using audio feedback, the educational toy including an enclosure enclosing a processor, a data storage medium and a speaker and having a substantially flat surface, at least a portion of which comprises a work platform on which a child manipulates and places an object.

Abstract: Described are a system and method for encouraging communication over a network between participants engaged in a learning activity. A communication channel is opened over the network between participants. An objective shared by the participants is presented. Cooperative interaction between the participants is required to complete the objective. Content related to the objective is displayed to each participant of the learning activity. Messages are exchanged in real-time between the participants over the communication channel to allow the participants to progress cooperatively towards completing the objective. Input from one of the participants of the learning activity is received. The input represents an action taken in response to the exchanged messages. The content displayed to the participants is dynamically updated based on the action taken by one of the participants during the learning activity, to depict progress towards the objective.

Abstract: This teaching method uses this one-two-sided learning aid, called the ONE-PAGE-BOOK, a combination of two languages in which the syntax of the target language is set up to allow the student to learn how to speak, think, write, read and understand the target language. This portable, always accessible and easy-to-use learning aid will allow the student to spontaneously communicate within 120 hours of formal language training by just following the numerical sequence found in the learning aid. This new teaching method does not require memorization, repetition or the use of grammar as the main way to teach the target language. With the use of the learning aid no additional textbooks would be needed.

Abstract: A system where a child or other individual arranges one or more computer-recognizable characters on a working platform to spell words or provide a mathematical result in response to computer generated questions or prompts, the system then indicating whether the words or mathematical result is correct.

Abstract: An electronic toy designed to stimulate the development of a child's mind using audio feedback, the toy comprising an object having a plurality of sides, the object adapted for lateral movement and rotational manipulation by a child on a substantially horizontal surface so that the child can laterally move the object on the substantially horizontal surface and select different sides of the object to face upwardly.

Abstract: An electronic toy appliance designed to stimulate the development of a child's mind using audio feedback, the toy comprising an object having a plurality of substantially planar sides adapted for manipulation by a child on a substantially flat surface so that a child may select different sides of the object to face upwardly. The appliance prompts the child with more difficult prompts depending on the child having provided correct previous responses.

Abstract: The invention refers to a device for supporting reading of a text from a display member (1) in order to increase the reading speed. The device includes first means (2, 4) which are arranged to provide a text, which consists of a number of characters forming words in said text, and to display at least a part of the text on the display member (1), an second means (2, 5), which are arranged to display a marking means (7) which marks at least one character of said part of the text on the display member (1). The second means are arranged to move the marking (7) in an automatic manner on the displayed part of the text in order to control the reading of the text.