Abstract: Disclosed is an interactive learning system and method comprising a plurality of student computing devices and database(s) connected through a network with teacher computing device(s), each adapted to help teachers and students engage in real-time qualitative content engagement, and may also provide real-time quantitative content engagement and analytics, to help determine the appropriate next learning steps of individual students and groups of students in real-time. In various example embodiments the system and method may provide actionable feedback and suggestions for students, for instance to help them understand the quality of their work and areas for further investigation.

Abstract: Apparatus for aiding learning by a person comprises a cover or shield (1) for concealing from the person a part of the person's body, and a webcam (6) and a screen (10) for visually displaying to the person, during concealment of the concealed body part, images of a part of the person's body not in direct view of the person. The apparatus may be used in the learning of a skill, such as hand-writing. In another embodiment, the shield is a collar worn to conceal part of the wearer's body, and the webcam and screen display the concealed body part in real time to the wearer. This apparatus can be used in many applications, such as to learn sports activities or to correct body image, posture or movement.

Abstract: An instruction is presented to a user for making a target gesture. The target gesture may be a portion of an exemplary or model symbol. The instruction may be presented in various ways, such as being printed on a writing surface or being played in audio format through a speaker of a smart pen device. A writing gesture made on a writing surface by the user is digitally captured using a smart pen device. The captured writing gesture is compared to the target gesture and feedback is determined based on this comparison. This feedback may indicate the correctness of the user's writing gesture. The feedback may be presented to the user through various means, including through the smart pen device. The comparison may also be used to determine a next instruction for the user to follow.

Abstract: An error detection system for automatically evaluating writing includes: an example construction apparatus to collect example sentences including various literary styles, to break up the collected example sentences in units of morphemes, and to construct the example sentences in an example-based index database (DB); and an error detection apparatus to break up an input sentence in units of morphemes, to generate one or more morpheme sequences bound in arbitrary window sizes based on one or more of morphemes of the broken-up input sentence, to search the example-based index DB for each of the generated morpheme sequences, and to detect an error according to a frequency at which said each morpheme is arranged in a corresponding morpheme sequence among morpheme sequences searched for through the example-based index DB.

Abstract: Disclosed is a kanji stroke order learning device including a kanji part stroke order storage unit which stores a plurality of stroke order data of kanji parts, a kanji part combination storage unit which stores kanji and kanji parts included in the kanji in association to each other, a kanji specifying unit which specifies any kanji as a specified kanji, a stroke order input unit which inputs stroke order of the specified kanji, a kanji part stroke order determination unit which determines whether the stroke order of the specified kanji input by the stroke order input unit is correct or incorrect for each kanji part included in the specified kanji, and a kanji part stroke order correct/incorrect display control unit which displays a determination result obtained by the kanji part stroke order determination unit for each kanji part included in the specified kanji.

Abstract: The current invention discloses a grid box that may be printed in a booklet to help children to learn writing, improve handwriting, and create their own content. The grid box has four parallel lines defining three spaces that may be used for standardized handwriting of English and Spanish words and letters. The middle space of the grid box is shaded to facilitate the process to standardize handwriting. The grid boxes are preferably printed in a booklet assembly having two or more booklets stacked together. These booklets have different lengths and widths, while the bigger booklets are positioned beneath the smaller booklets, making a stepped arrangement. With picturing pasting sections and leading texts, the children learning to write may be prompted to handwrite letters and words in the grid boxes while completing a story.

Abstract: A muscle movement handwriting teaching method for teaching handwriting using a novel lettering guide and an method of instruction which takes advantage of the similar hand movements used with-in particular groups of letters. The learning of these letters is organized so that after one letter is mastered, another letter is learned based on the similarities of hand movements used in printing a learned letter and the next letter being taught. The handwriting method facilitates learning how to read and write in new languages.

Abstract: A handwriting instrument to provide visual and tactile cues to teach and improve handwriting includes a writing medium, a rectangular writing box on the writing medium. The rectangular writing box consists of first and second vertical end lines connecting ends of an upper horizontal line, a lower raised horizontal line and a dashed line located between the upper and lower horizontal lines extending from the first vertical line to the second vertical line. The area between the lower raised horizontal line and the dashed horizontal line is shaded a different color than the writing medium to provide further visual cues for handwriting.

Abstract: An interactive electronic device (10, 100) is disclosed. The device (10, 100) has a sequence of language symbols (18) and control electronics (16) operatively coupled to a graphic user interface (14) and a language-symbol selector (20, 20?) having a sight (22, 22?). The sequence of language symbols (18) and the language-symbol selector (20, 20?) are movable in relation to one another such that each language symbols of the sequence is viewable in the sight (22, 22?). The control electronics (16) has an electronic memory (30) having stored therein a plurality of traceable templates (32) representing each language-symbol of the sequence (18). Selection of a language symbol when the language symbol is viewable in the sight (22, 22?) causes the graphic user interface (14) to produce the traceable template (32) corresponding to the language symbol and to produce a visible rendering (34) of a movement of an affector (36) as the affector (36) races the traceable template (32).

Abstract: An educational tool for teaching children to write their full name with properly formed letters for the first time, including a system for creating a remembrance of such event wherein the actual occurrence of the child's first name writing is saved and converted into a keepsake or remembrance item.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a method for the instruction of handwriting through the use of cartoon items. Certain cartoons and other drawings may be introduced and students asked to reproduce the cartoon items a number of times; until a desired proficiency is reached. Subsequently, the student may be made aware that a portion or all of the cartoon item also includes a handwriting element. The student may then be instructed in the reproduction of the handwriting element alone. Through this method the student may acquire the necessary skills to reproduce the handwriting element alone, or in combination with other handwriting elements, to achieve proficiency at reproducing the handwriting element. The end result being that handwriting may be learned efficiently in a manner that retains the students' interest.

Abstract: Learning aid device/method for children/adults/second-language-learners learning to read and write comprising a single or double-sided card depicting one or more words in upper and/or lower case displayed on ruled upper/lower case guidelines, and a corresponding real object image. The card includes ample space for a left or right-handed learner to copy/draw the word(s) depicted with erasable markers next to and/or below the word(s). The card is laminated (including a sealing margin) or coated, and is heavy-duty. The text may be textured, distinguishing it from the card's slick surface. When touching the text, learners gain finger/hand muscle training, assisting them in manipulating the writing instrument (marker). A key aspect of the inventive learning device is the provision of personalizable/interactive activity features, namely a slot at the edge of the image area where a picture personal to the user/learner may be inserted into a clear pocket viewable from the front of the card.

Abstract: A handwriting instrument to provide visual and tactile cues to teach and improve handwriting includes a writing medium, a rectangular writing box on the writing medium. The rectangular writing box consists of first and second vertical end lines connecting ends of an upper horizontal line, a lower raised horizontal line and a dashed line located between the upper and lower horizontal lines extending from the first vertical line to the second vertical line. The area between the lower raised horizontal line and the dashed horizontal line is shaded a different color than the writing medium to provide further visual cues for handwriting.

Abstract: A system for teaching learners to write letters of an alphabet uses a plurality of template blocks, each having a cutout corresponding to a letter of the alphabet. A bottom wall of the cutout is covered with an abrasive material to facilitate tactile recognition of the letter shape by the learner. The kit has a plurality of insert members that make letter-forming components, such that one or more insert members fitted in the cutout form the corresponding letter of the alphabet.

Abstract: A sheet assembly including a sheet and sequential instruction indicia on the sheet. The sequential instruction indicia includes discrete ordered steps that cue a user in proper writing strokes to write an associated letter or number. The sheet assembly further includes narrative indicia on the sheet having discrete portions that correspond to the discrete ordered steps of the sequential instruction indicia.

Abstract: A method for teaching grammar where each lesson focuses on a different element of grammar id disclosed. These lessons are preferably arranged not by parts of speech, but rather are grouped such that subsequent lessons build on previously learned lessons. Identifying an element of grammar is achieved through a series of steps, whereby if these steps are followed exactly, the element of grammar can easily be identified. At least one of the steps includes a question, where the answer the question is the element of grammar to be identified by the user.

Abstract: A writing guide system including a piece of sheet-like material having a depressed area in the shape of an alphanumeric character. In another embodiment the invention is a progressive writing guide system including a first set of papers including a writing guide feature, and a second set of papers including a writing guide feature. The second set of papers are coupled to the first set of papers. The writing guide feature of the first set of papers provides more guidance to a user that the writing guide feature of the second set of papers.

Abstract: The invention provides a system and method for producing a teaching aid. The system includes an input receiving means for receiving input for a text character, a processor configured for converting the input for the text character into an output character, and an output character output means for displaying the output character. The output character includes an indicia related to the text character, which indicia includes separated dots which are within the projected borders of a line of the text character, a dotted character; an indicated space, or combinations thereof.

Abstract: An instruction is presented to a user for making a target gesture. The target gesture may be a portion of an exemplary or model symbol. The instruction may be presented in various ways, such as being printed on a writing surface or being played in audio format through a speaker of a smart pen device. A writing gesture made on a writing surface by the user is digitally captured using a smart pen device. The captured writing gesture is compared to the target gesture and feedback is determined based on this comparison. This feedback may indicate the correctness of the user's writing gesture. The feedback may be presented to the user through various means, including through the smart pen device. The comparison may also be used to determine a next instruction for the user to follow.

Abstract: A transitional writing paper, and educational system and method useful for guiding a penmanship learner in progressing from learning letter formation to legibly printing words and sentences, are disclosed. A writing medium in accordance with the invention, includes consecutive horizontal baselines for printing, and vertically oriented spaced apart line segments that define spaces for printing. The educational system and method beneficially visually cue and teach the learner to print left to right between margin lines, and to otherwise be prepared to properly and legibly print words and sentences on lined notebook paper.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method to create Vertical English Character (VEC) and calligraphy. The Characters including one-block structure, two-block structure, up elbow structure, down elbow structure and three-block structure are disclosed. The invention is suitable to build up fine art scripts, calligraphies and artworks.

Abstract: An educational method for teaching a metacognitive process for writing is demonstrated within a series of colored, hand-held multiple-shaped manipulatives. Representing a foundation from which all types of writing and its conventions may be explored, the manipulatives have been so designed to aid students in the process of recalling, interpreting, applying, analyzing, synthesizing and/or judging during the writing process. Each part of the manipulatives represent an essential component of the student's thinking during the writing application. The shape, color and key word of each manipulative represents an association for the student in his/her thinking during the process of writing.

Abstract: A number writing development guide including a number guide sheet having sequential instruction indicia. The sequential instruction indicia includes discrete ordered steps that cue a user in proper writing strokes to write an associated number. At least one of the discrete ordered steps relates to a common childhood activity or experience to thereby form an association between the activity or experience and the sequential instruction indicia. The guide further includes a challenge sheet coupled to the number guide sheet and having number challenge indicia. The number challenge indicia cues the user to arrive at a numerical answer to the number challenge and write the numerical answer thereon.

Abstract: This invention is an integrated alphabetic language teaching system that facilitates teaching multiple levels of the arts of writing and reading to individuals aged one year and older. This invention reverses traditional methods of written language development by enabling writing prior and preliminary to reading. This invention initially teaches a set of orthographic graphemic segmental strokes by drawing geometric constructs called instructional entities composed entirely of the same orthographic graphemic segmental strokes that will subsequently be individually taught and practiced, thereby providing a student with a fundamental enabling skill with which the entire sets of 26 majuscule, 26 miniscule, 10 numerals, 14 punctuation marks and the entire lexicon of the English and other alphabetic languages may be constructed.

Abstract: A discriminative machine learning system for labels text and non-text strokes in digital ink. The learning system considers stroke features and the context of the strokes, such as temporal information about one or more strokes, in a probabilistic framework. The learning system can also consider gap features within the probabilistic framework to label associated strokes.

Abstract: A method of performing hand drawings analysis includes storing a plurality of hand drawing exercises. Each hand drawing exercise may be configured to test an ability to draw a symbol. A record may be stored. The record may include respondent information. One or more hand drawing exercises may be selected and possibly adapted based on the responded information. A response to each selected hand drawing exercise may be received via an optical-reader device. Each response may be evaluated. The record may be updated based on the evaluated responses. Information may be provided based on the evaluated responses.

Abstract: Writing and composition paper that is functional in helping students to write legibly and teachers to easily read their writing, thus helping teachers make more efficient use of their time. “Skip-A-Space Writing and Composition Paper” is a step above traditional writing paper because it allows students to produce legible handwriting and gives them a “built-in handwriting guide on each sheet of paper”. “Skip-A-Space Writing and Composition Paper” may contain a vertical line approximately one inch from the right and/or left sides of the edge of the paper and may be used for margin guides. A sheet of “Skip-A-Space Writing and Composition Paper” may be wide-ruled or college-ruled. It may also be available in loose leaf or composition notebook form and may contain holes on one side to allow insertion into a binder.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to the area of assistive technology, and specifically discloses an apparatus and method for teaching proper letter sizing and spacing to autistic children and others having deficiencies in the areas of visual processing, motor control and sensory processing, through the use of a novel writing guide and graduated method for using same.

Abstract: Described is a novel method for teaching narrative and expository writing, reflecting the understanding that writing is a repetitive process and is a successful means of communication only if the writing is proficient. The method trains teachers to teach successful writing to students through four stages (modeled, shared, guided, independent), and these same stages are used in the teacher training. This method focuses on the planning aspects necessary for successful writing by identifying the essential elements of the application, requiring students to notate the details before writing sentences, and emphasizing the importance of revising the content of the composition. Of primary importance to this method is that the students identify and understand the rubric that will be used to score their writing, and they can revise and adjust theirs to comply with the rubric.

Abstract: Learning aid. The invention disclosed here is a system to aid the user in learning. The preferred embodiment is intended to aid the user in learning to write. Some embodiments of the invention disclosed here are printed sheets having a traceable pattern rendered in multiple colors, with each intended stroke indicated in a different color. In some, the pattern is a symbol which is part of a written language. In some, the symbol is a letter. In some, the symbol is a logogram. In some, the pattern is a symbol which is part of a mathematical notation. In some, the symbol is a numeral. Some include arrows indicating the direction in which strokes should be made. In some, there are printed numbers indicating an order in which strokes should be made.

Abstract: A hand-writing practicing system is comprised of a computer with a screen that can sense the movement of a stylus on it, and software the displays to the user original script in hand-writing, record the stylus movement as user-writing and display it on top of the original script.

Abstract: There is provided a writing analytic apparatus comprising: a writing source (10-1) having writing data; a word list (10-5) having one or more sets of word data representing a predetermined image; and writing analyzing means (10-2, 10-6) which decomposes a writing in the writing source into a predetermined analysis unit, extracts words existing in the word list from the analysis unit and creates an analytic table which shows each extracted word in accordance with the analysis unit. An image included in the writing can be analyzed.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) includes a pressure relief valve (12) for relieving air pressure from a passenger compartment (76) of a vehicle (66). The pressure relief valve (12) enables airflow from the passenger compartment (76) to atmosphere (78). The apparatus (10) also includes a member (14) for reducing noise entering the passenger compartment (76) as a result of a backflow of air through the pressure relief valve (12) from atmosphere (78) to the passenger compartment (76). The member (14) includes structure (112, 114) for attaching the member (14) to the pressure relief valve (12).

Abstract: An adaptive learning system learns and adapts to behavior of a user enjoying media content via a handheld device. The system includes a user interface provided to the handheld device and operable to receive user input, and a media delivery mechanism provided to the user interface and operable to deliver media content to the user in response to the user input. In further aspects, the system includes a data store provided to the handheld device and operable to record information relating to user consumption of media content, wherein the user consumption occurs in connection with delivering electronic media content.

Abstract: A digitizing tablet (190) for use in handwriting analysis is described. The tablet includes a digitizing layer (1920) translating pressure from a stylus (1930) into digital information, a display layer (1910) for providing visible output that corresponds to a student's use of the stylus (1930) on the tablet, and an overlay layer (1900) for protecting the display layer (1910) and providing an electro-mechanical mechanism for erasing the displayed contents.

Abstract: One aspect of the invention relates to an electronic writing device for interactive teaching of users to reproduce a selected graphical representation. The electronic writing device comprises a casing, a screen and internal logic placed within the casing. The internal logic controls adjustment of a light beam directed at a bottom surface of the screen to temporarily illuminate one or more light segments, visible on a top surface of the screen, in efforts to guide a user in writing the graphical representation.

Abstract: A method and device for teaching the pronunciation of the letters of the alphabet's phonetically correct sound, and recognition of name and shape, for learning reading and writing, utilizing the technique of multi-sensory tactile impressions. Illustrations of letters and their phonetically correct sounds are linked with commonly associated words. For example, the letter “s” is paired with an illustration of and the word “sun” to teach an unvoiced “s” sound; or paired with an illustration of and the word “rose” to teach a voiced “zzz” sound. The letter's textured surface is distinguishable from the pages' flat surface. While simultaneously tracing the letter's bumpy surface, the user vocalizes the letter's name, phonetically correct sound and associated word. Combinations of letters are used to blend sounds to form words. The same method can be used to teach number recognition and meaning.

Abstract: An instructional aid and method for teaching the formation of letters and numerals to pre-writers includes a set of the generic shapes found in letters and numerals. The generic shapes are placed on cards to form letters.

Abstract: A digitizing tablet (190) for use in handwriting analysis is described. The tablet includes a digitizing layer (1920) for translating pressure from a stylus (1930) into digital information, a display layer (1910) for providing visible output that corresponds to a student's use of the stylus (1930) on the tablet, and an overlay layer (1900) for protecting the display layer (1910) and providing an electro-mechanical mechanism for erasing the displayed contents.

Abstract: One aspect of the invention relates to an electronic writing device for interactive teaching of users to reproduce a selected graphical representation. The electronic writing device comprises a casing, a screen and internal logic placed within the casing. The internal logic controls adjustment of a light beam directed at a bottom surface of the screen to temporarily illuminate one or more light segments, visible on a top surface of the screen, in efforts to guide a user in writing the graphical representation.

Abstract: An apparatus for teaching and encouraging experiential writing by a child includes a picture pad having a plurality of sheets removably affixed to a foldable cover in the form of a checkbook. Each sheet includes a distinctive picture, its name, the first letter of its name, space for a user to write notes while actually viewing a place or thing depicted by the picture, and a line for a user's signature. Each sheet is individually and selectively removable from the picture pad. The apparatus includes a diary having a plurality of pages. Each page includes a first side capable of holding a sheet selectively removed from the picture pad and a second side having space for a user to write about actually viewing a place or thing depicted by a picture of a removed sheet.

Abstract: A locus-recordable portable handwriting device for recording locus of a wireless stylus is provided with function of memory-page scrolling, locus color switching, data clearance, establishment of a built-in power source, etc. The handwriting device comprises a microprocessor, a memory, a power control unit, a display unit, a universal serial bus (USB), a data clearance switch, a memory-page code switching switch, and a locus-color switching switch.

Abstract: An apparatus for teaching and encouraging experiential writing by a child includes a picture pad having a plurality of sheets removably affixed to a foldable cover in the form of a checkbook. Each sheet includes a distinctive picture, its name, the first letter of its name, space for a user to write notes while actually viewing a place or thing depicted by the picture, and a line for a user's signature. Each sheet is individually and selectively removable from the picture pad. The apparatus includes a diary having a plurality of pages. Each page includes a first side capable of holding a sheet selectively removed from the picture pad and a second side having space for a user to write about actually viewing a place or thing depicted by a picture of a removed sheet.

Abstract: Instructional writing paper for instructing children to properly form letters and numerals is disclosed. The instructional writing paper preferably includes writing paper having a plurality of spaced parallel lines, the parallel lines forming at least one segment. Each segment includes a top and bottom line, wherein the top line includes indicia indicating a starting point and the bottom line includes indicia indicating a direction of letter and numeral formation. The indicia is preferably a parallel line having a highlighted color portion. The starting point is at the top line of a segment of the writing paper and the direction of letter and numeral formation is directed toward the bottom line of the segment of the writing paper. A method of teaching persons to form letters and numerals is also disclosed.

Abstract: An educational treasure hunt game provides for teaching young children or others the basics of writing and reading, by conducting a physical search for cards placed or concealed throughout a predetermined area in accordance with clues provided. A series of cards include pictorial representations of various articles or objects on the front face thereof, with the cards having one or more written clues on the reverse face thereof. Each clue corresponds to a pictorial representation shown on the front face of the next successive card in the series, with all of the cards being arranged in alphabetical order according to the first letter of the name of the object or article pictured. The back faces of the cards may include more than one clue, with a corresponding number of cards being provided in order to provide sufficient pictorial symbols. The game is played by placing or concealing the cards adjacent to articles or objects corresponding to their pictorial representations.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a device 10 used for teaching people to properly write letters, numbers and various geometric shapes. It consists of templates 12 displaying the various letters, numbers and shapes which as placed over a piece of paper 16 inside a guide form or template holder 14 so that the sheet of paper 16 is held between the template 12 and the template holder 14. Each template 12 has a number of rows and columns on it so that in the first column the imprinted letter 24 to be written is shown, in the second column the stencil 26 of the letter or number to be written is shown and to the right blank spaces 28 are provided so the user can practice his writing. In addition, a template 52 having varying sizes of blank boxes 28 is provided allowing one to practice the letters in various sizes.

Abstract: A carrier for writing symbols, such as numerals and the like, comprising a base, and a plurality of designated areas each formed by a plurality of individual elements, each of the areas being marked by indicating of corresponding individual elements so as to provide identical numerals and the like regardless of handwriting of an individual.

Abstract: A method and device for assisting handwriting training which fosters a proper tripod writing grip, places the ring and little finger into a proper handwriting position and also helps to build the handwriting muscles. The device for assisting handwriting training is comprised of a wristband having an attached string with a charm and a pencil loop attached to the wristband. The method and device for assisting handwriting training is especially useful for persons having decreased hand strength or an inappropriate grasp pattern and for assisting children to learn proper grasp pattern.

Abstract: An electronic storybook is disclosed that allows a child to not only interact with the storybook by drawing characters that depict or change a scene, but also to allow the child to record his/her verbal comments, interpretations and impressions while the scene is being created so that the full story told by a child may be captured in an audio-visual manner.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for teaching students, particularly young children, how to write evenly spaced words. This is achieved through training the children to space the words using a spacer having a width equal to the desired spacing and having them practice writing sentences using the spacer to separate each word.