Abstract: An interactive and motivational game apparatus and game are disclosed for encouraging children to eat a healthy meal. Provided is a table game apparatus comprising meal time images, and interactive elements including light, sound, or motion that game players can interact with by pressing activation buttons located on the game apparatus.

Abstract: A method of using conversation state information in a conversational interaction system is disclosed. A method of inferring a change of a conversation session during continuous user interaction with an interactive content providing system includes receiving input from the user including linguistic elements intended by the user to identify an item, associating a linguistic element of the input with a first conversation session, and providing a response based on the input. The method also includes receiving additional input from the user and inferring whether or not the additional input from the user is related to the linguistic element associated with the conversation session. If related, the method provides a response based on the additional input and the linguistic element associated with the first conversation session. Otherwise, the method provides a response based on the second input without regard for the linguistic element associated with the first conversation session.

Abstract: A method of golf instruction utilizing a schematic represented by a plurality of vertical, diagonal and circular lines which demonstrate a preferred golf swing. A video recorder, processor and monitor can be used to record the golf swing of a student aligned within the schematic. Corrections to the students swing can be made based on the deviation from the schematic. Additionally, the flight path of the ball can be determined based upon the deviation from the schematic and the adjusted flight path can be displayed.

Abstract: A method of determining a mastery level for an examinee from an assessment is disclosed. The method includes receiving one or more of an overall skill level for an examinee, a weight for the overall skill level, a covariate vector for an examinee, and a weight for the covariate vector. An examinee attribute value is computed using one or more of the received values for each examinee and each attribute. The computation of the examinee attribute values can include estimating the value using a Markov Chain Monte Carlo estimation technique. Examinee mastery levels are then assigned based on each examinee attribute level. Dichotomous or polytomous levels can be assigned based on requirements for the assessment.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and system for enabling an electronic reader embedded on e-learning system. In one implementation, the system comprises a Graphical User Interface (GUI) module, a receiving module, a capturing module, a generating module, a database and a communication module. The GUI module is configured to display a first content object to one or more users connected on the online e-learning platform. The receiving module is configured to receive an electronic input signal from a user to highlight a first sub-content object in the first content object. The capturing module is configured to capture first metadata associated with the first sub-content object. The generating module is configured to generate a second content object comprising the first sub-content highlighted based on the first metadata. The database is configured for storing the second content object. The communication module is configured to share the second content object in real-time.

Abstract: A system and method for teaching combining letters, images and sounds. A keyboard having letters on keys has sounds associated with each key. Keys for words used in a lesson may be highlighted to provide clues how to spell a word. Sounds associated with a selected word may be played upon the successful completion of spelling of the word on the keyboard.

Abstract: A method of distributing educational course content to a user of a first computer according to an illustrative embodiment involves causing the first computer to present educational information retrieved from a first at least one computer-readable storage medium comprising the educational information stored thereon in association with one of a first plurality of educational modules, the educational information presented by the first computer and stored on the first at least one computer-readable storage medium in association with the one of the first plurality of educational modules comprising at least one question, instructional information, and at least one explanation for a respective correct answer to a respective one of the at least one question. Causing the first computer to present the instructional information involves causing the first computer to present at least a portion of the instructional information while the at least one question is being presented by the first computer.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are a method and an apparatus for controlling an interactive lecture service capable of performing questions and answers during a lecture without using a media mixer. A method for providing a media stream switching based interactive lecture service, includes: receiving a right to speak request from at least one student terminal by a lecturer terminal; assigning the right to speak to a specific student terminal in response to the right to speak request and receiving at least one of the question video and voice of the specific student terminal, by the lecturer terminal; and transmitting at least one of the receiving question video and voice of the specific student terminal to a terminal included in a lecture session by the lecturer terminal.

Abstract: A method of educating using a virtual workstation. The method includes the steps of: providing the virtual workstation; allowing a person to access the virtual workstation to generate multimedia product; and requiring that the person complete at least one educational project to continue accessing the virtual workstation to generate multimedia product.

Abstract: A method of medical training includes presenting a user with a medical scenario within a medical simulation in which the user plays a physician. The medical scenario includes an interaction between the user and a patient. Performance data corresponding to the user is identified. The identified performance data is based at least in part on an action of the user during the interaction between the user and the patient. The user is evaluated based at least in part on the identified performance data to determine whether the user has achieved a training goal within the medical simulation. The training goal is intended to improve a medical skill of the user.

Abstract: Hybrid reading materials and methods for mentally investing readers in reading materials. Hybrid reading materials include text reciting written subject matter adapted to be read visually and an audio source operatively coupled to the text, the audio source including a memory device configured to store spoken presentation data, the spoken presentation data supplementing the text and being distinct from the written subject matter. Methods for mentally investing a reader in a reading material include providing a reader with a summary document which summarizes aspects of the reading material and providing the reader with a spoken presentation of subject matter related to the reading material.

Abstract: A system comprises a finding scene constructing module, for constructing and displaying a finding scene according to a scene of different levels of difficulty, a base map matching the scene and a target to be found; a finding position processing module, for acquiring a finding position and comparing the finding position with a distribution area of the target to be found, to obtain a comparison result and judge, according to the comparison result, whether a child accurately finds the target to be found; a scoring module, for scoring according to the comparison result, counting total scores and submitting the total scores to a database for storage; an audio and video module, for providing prompts and knowledge for the child according to the comparison result; and a scene element database, for storing the scene of different levels of difficulty, the base map matching the scene, the target, and the audio and video.

Abstract: Technology disclosed herein provides for use of HMDs in a classroom setting. Technology disclosed herein provides for HMD use for holographic instruction. In one embodiment, the HMD is used for social coaching. User profile information may be used to tailor instruction to a specific user based on known skills, learning styles, and/or characteristics. One or more individuals may be monitored based on sensor data. The sensor data may come from an HMD. The monitoring may be analyzed to determine how to enhance an experience. The experience may be enhanced by presenting an image in at least one head mounted display worn by the one or more individuals.

Abstract: A method and system for instructive reinforcement for a learner. The method comprises the steps of a) identifying a learner requiring external reinforcement for maintaining focus on an instructional activity; b) determining a reinforcement for the learner for use as an intermittent reinforcement during an instructional activity; c) defining at least one of a frequency and a duration of the intermittent reinforcement to be utilized during the instructional activity; d) performing the instructional activity; e) periodically interrupting the instructional activity, with the intermittent reinforcement, to refocus the learner back to the instructional activity; f) continuing performance of the instructional activity; and g) repeating steps e) and f) until the instructional activity is completed. A system incorporating the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of and system for, assisting interaction between a user and at least one other human, which includes receiving (202) action data describing at least one action performed by at least one human. The action data is decoded (204) to generate action-meaning data and the action-meaning data is used (206) to generate (208) user response data relating to how a user should respond to the at least one action.

Abstract: The present invention relates to multimedia devices for different age groups with different ability to understand and control such multimedia devices. The invention relates more specifically to a computer device for multimedia functions, where the functions are provided in a control unit/peripheral device for the computer device. The control unit comprises all the essential functional parts and operational codes for its function and can operate alone through the display device or in combination with other peripheral devices.

Abstract: This disclosure describes methods and apparatus for indicating battery cell status on a battery pack assembly used during mechanical ventilation. Embodiments described herein seek to provide methods for indicating battery cell status on the exposed exterior of a battery assembly pack both when the battery is in use and when the battery is not in use during mechanical ventilation. Embodiments utilize power from the ventilator as well as power from the battery pack itself to light the indicators during periods of battery use and non-use, respectively. Embodiments described herein further seek to provide an apparatus indicating battery cell status on the exposed exterior of the battery pack assembly during mechanical ventilation. Embodiments described herein further seek to provide an apparatus for a battery pack assembly used during mechanical ventilation. Embodiments described herein seek to provide a system for a ventilation system with an inserted battery pack assembly.

Abstract: A method for ensuring the safety of a wheelchair passenger in a transport vehicle is disclosed. The method ensures that the wheelchair is blocked from moving by fixating the wheelchair to the vehicle floor and ensures that the wheelchair passenger is secured in his wheelchair by a safety-belt system. Prior to transport the method includes sensing if the wheelchair is correctly fixed to the vehicle floor and sensing if the safety-belt system is applied correctly. In a second aspect, a method for ensuring the safety of a wheelchair passenger in a transport vehicle is provided, by instructing the operator of the securing procedure to be followed. The safety of a wheelchair passenger in a vehicle is ensured by allowing the wheelchair user to indicate his status of safety.

Abstract: A system and method for training a student to perform bodily movements are disclosed. For a bodily motion, a plurality of motion events are selected. Each is associated with and involves a particular body part. During a video display of a model example of the bodily motion, and for each motion event, the student's body is stimulated in a location that corresponds to the motion event and associated particular body part. The stimulations are timed to occur at the same time as the display of the associated motion events, in order to induced improved learning and practice of the bodily motion. Stimulations may be controlled in various ways during the display of the model example, or during (i) subsequent display sessions; (ii) sessions in which sensory stimulus perceivable by the user is suppressed to facilitate training; and (iii) sessions in which the student practices the bodily motion.

Abstract: A system, method and computer program product for providing targeted messages to a person using telephony services by generating user profile information from telephony data and using the user profile information to retrieve targeted messages.

Abstract: A method, system and product of providing real-time guidance to a user for performing an activity through a portable computing device. The portable computing device has at least one camera and at least one display. The method includes displaying an instructional video of an activity on a display, the instructional video comprising one or more instructions for performing the activity. Then capturing a real-time video of the user using a camera of a portable computing device, and then displaying the real-time video of the user on the display, wherein the real-time video and the instructional video are displayed simultaneously on the display, the simultaneous display of the real-time video and the instructional video enable the user to perform the activity.

Abstract: Various embodiments related to providing user feedback in an electronic entertainment system are disclosed herein. For example, one disclosed embodiment provides a method of providing user feedback in a karaoke system, comprising inviting a microphone gesture input from a user, receiving the microphone gesture input from the user via one or more motion sensors located on a microphone, comparing the microphone gesture input to an expected gesture input, rating the microphone gesture input based upon comparing the microphone gesture input to the expected gesture input, and providing feedback to the user based upon the rating.

Abstract: A message storage apparatus that can stimulate creativity and imagination of children and adolescents is disclosed. The apparatus facilitates storage of messages such as secrets, memories, notes, diary entries, wishes, dreams, trivia and other educational facts, quiz and other game questions, valentines, etc. More particularly, the apparatus can virtually (or physically) store intangible (and tangible) messages, thereby enhancing creativity and imagination. The message storage apparatus has a message delivery system that receives a message and delivers it securely to a storage chamber where the message can be accessed at a later time.

Abstract: The present invention includes method and system for intelligent knowledge diagnosis and tutoring in any knowledge domain. It differs from prior arts with new knowledge model for knowledge presentation and heuristic algorithms. The knowledge model allows the present invention to be applied to curricula in different knowledge domains quickly and cost effectively. The knowledge model and related computational algorithms provide effective and intelligent knowledge diagnosis and tutoring with minimum requirement on assessment content and learning content. It also allows easy curriculum customization and learner initiated learning assistance to meet needs of different teaching and learning styles. The present invention gains better understanding of learner's knowledge status and hence provides more accurate assistance as learner progresses in the curriculum. The present invention can be an add-engine to existing learning management systems working with existing assessment and learning content in any format.

Abstract: A method, system and computer-readable carrier for using a discrimination index to select test items from an item bank for a test are disclosed. At least one parameter may be identified for each of a plurality of test items in an item bank. A first test item may be selected from the item bank based on at least the parameter for the test item. Each unselected test item may be evaluated to determine whether one or more constraints would be satisfied if the test item were selected. A next test item may be selected from the unselected test items that satisfy the one or more first constraints based on at least the parameter for each test item. The Evaluation and test item selection processes may be repeated until one or more second constraints are satisfied.

Abstract: A computer implemented method that includes providing a product specific learning interface comprising integrated multimedia content on product usage and service to a user. The multimedia content demonstrates a feature of a product stored in a database (112) associated with an application server (104). The method includes processing a first input that includes a selection of the product from a plurality of products, displaying a product specific learning interface including multimedia content specific to the product selected by the input, processing a second input that includes a keyword corresponding to a feature of the product, displaying a sub set of the multimedia content corresponding the keyword and the product, processing a selection of at least one multimedia file from the sub set of the multimedia content, and playing the multimedia file. The keyword is filtered only from a set of multimedia content corresponding to selected product.

Abstract: A parent provides information regarding a child and other family members to a system. The information is then used to create customized assemblages of linear and interactive media, which may be further personalized for that child's entertainment and education. The customized and personalized episode so assembled persists and can be replayed indefinitely. New episodes are created regularly (e.g., daily), and can be based on the child's age, preferences, and performance while experiencing previous episodes. Scheduled events (e.g., birthdays, starting school), local current events (e.g., weather), the current situation (e.g., current location, time of day), etc. may also influence the creation of new episodes. While monitoring the child's progress, the system provides to a parent suggestions for activities related to the child's recent episodes.

Abstract: A system for charging one or more learning session to one or more student accounts comprises an online learning system having one or more nodes that creates one or more online learning sessions over one or more communications channels between one or more students and corresponding teachers. An enrollment node receives student enrollment information. A scheduling node schedules the online learning session. A database that stores information relating to one or more charge criterion information for charging the one or more learning sessions to the one or more student accounts based on communications channel activity. An activity node receives communications channel activity information associated with one or more learning sessions, and an accounting node associates a charge information for a learning session to the student account based on the channel activity information and one or more charge criterion information.

Abstract: A system for authoring knitting, crocheting, weaving patterns and other fiber arts patterns, and for converting those patterns into stepwise voice and visual instructions comprising a hardware architecture and modular software including a database of predefined stitch objects each corresponding to a stitching step or sequence. Each stitch object is linked in the database to a sound bite enunciating that stitch step and to a graphic illustration depicting that stitch step with a written explanation. The software includes an authoring module with a pattern compilation user-interface that allows a user to construct a complete pattern by selecting knitting commands from a menu of predefined commands in the database. Once constructed, the pattern is loaded into a playback module which employs an enunciation engine that speaks the complete pattern step-by-step and a playback user interface that displays a visual depiction and description of each step all at a user defined pace.

Abstract: The system and method of learning technical or scientific content in combination with a video game includes provision of a learning module, provision of a gaming module, execution of actions in each of the learning and gaming modules, and alternating, in response to one or more predetermined learning or gaming conditions, between the learning and gaming modules.

Abstract: There is provided a method of customizing an audio presentation for tailoring to a predetermined event sequence, one embodiment comprising identifying the predetermined event sequence from a predetermined event sequence database, associating a first audio asset with one or more selected events of the predetermined event sequence, synchronizing the timing of the first audio assets with the timing of the selected events, and linking the first audio assets to produce a customized audio presentation tailored to the predetermined event sequence. In one embodiment, the method includes downloading an interactive audio presentation content including an interactive audio presentation program, an audio assets database, and the predetermined event sequence database to a client computer. In one embodiment, a system for customizing an audio presentation tailored to a predetermined event sequence comprises a client computer, a client memory located on the client computer, and interactive audio presentation content.

Abstract: An interactive educational apparatus, ideally suitable for children. A set of symbol pieces, preferably in the form of letter blocks are provided. An interface board is provided for accommodating one or more selected symbol pieces and a sensor on said interface board generates a signal identifying each symbol piece when placed on the interface board. Media files are stored on a storage medium and each media file has an associated tag. A processor is programmed to match a search key represented by one or more selected symbol pieces with the tags. A display device displays one or more media files having identifier tags matching the search key represented by said selected symbol pieces. These identifier tags provide a way to match up the media files with each search key generated by placement of the symbol pieces on the interface board.

Abstract: A computerized learning method is provided. The method may include receiving a write request from a first learning application program to write a learning level for a skill in a user profile. The user profile is configured to store data indicative of a plurality of skills and a learning level for each skill. The skills and learning levels are defined according to a profile schema. The method may further include writing the learning level for the skill in the user profile. The method may also include receiving a read request from a second learning application program to read the learning level for the skill in the user profile. The method may finally include retrieving the learning level from the user profile, and sending the learning level to the second learning application program.

Abstract: A method for teaching an aircraft assembly method to students at locations separate from the location of an instructor is described. The method includes providing, from the instructor location, a first video feed based on a line of sight of the instructor and a second video feed being a field view of the assembly area. The video feeds are received at the disparate locations for display within a line of sight of the students such that the students may view the instructor performing the assembly method concurrent with the students performing the assembly method. Like video feeds are provided from the student locations such that the instructor may view at least one of the students performing the assembly method concurrent with the instructor performing the assembly method.

Abstract: A real-time observation assessment system includes an assessment application that enables an assessor to administer a probe to a student, and to capture responses of the student, and to automatically score the captured responses. The assessment system includes a user interface of the assessment application. The user interface includes a first area of the user interface that displays a character sequence that is divided into multiple segments, where at least two of the multiple segments of the character sequence are separately selectable and a second area of the user interface that is divided into multiple segments corresponding to each segment of the character sequence in the first area, where each segment in the second area is separately selectable to enable capturing of different combinations of student responses reflecting selection of one or more of the segments in the second area. A scoring module enables a score to be calculated based on the selected segments according to scoring rules for the probe.

Abstract: A soft sculpture picture frame in the shape of a human or animal, with a contained audio recording and playback device. A message may be recorded on the audio recording and playback device for later playback, by pressing a recording activation means contained within part of the human shape of the picture frame. The recorded message may be played back by pressing a playback activation means contained within part of the human shape of the picture frame, preferably a different part. Picture retaining means holds a photograph of a person whose voice may be recorded on the device.

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: An e-Learning system provides a dashboard adapted to permit user navigation to a multiplicity of lessons. Each lesson is presented in a web page as an audio-video program and a text field adapted to permit a user to enter notes which watching the audio-video program is provided on the web page. Individual quizzes associated with each of the lessons are provided and once the individual quizzes have been completed the user may take a comprehensive final exam. Any notes taken during the lessons are accessible to the user during the quizzes and the final exam.

Abstract: An immersive and interactive educational system for a child aged about 1 to about 10 years, comprising a digital processing device that is connected to the Internet and visual and audio content that creates an immersive and interactive educational environment for the child. The educational environment is characterized by comprising at least three subjects appropriate for the child, wherein each subject comprises a plurality of levels of learning; a plurality of learning activities associated with each subject; a software module for monitoring the progress of the child in each of the subjects; a software module for rewarding the child for completing an activity; and a software module for creating an avatar to represent the child.

Abstract: Methods and systems for providing age appropriate activities to infant users. The age of the infant user is first determined and, based on the age, activities are presented to the infant user. Younger infant users will be presented with simpler and easier to understand activities requiring less manual dexterity and comprehension skills while older infant users will be presented with more complex tasks which may require more involved comprehension skills. These activities are presented by way of a touch screen user interface for ease of use by the infant user. Also disclosed are methods and systems for exposing the infant user to a variety of languages at an early age. These methods and systems may be incorporated as activities for older infant users.

Abstract: A karaoke device is included within an enclosure and having a voice pickup element integrated into the enclosure, the voice pickup element for converting sound waves into an electrical signal. An audio input signal passes into the enclosure and connects with an electronic circuit for amplifying the electrical signal, for controlling the amplitude of the electrical signal and for mixing the electrical signal and the audio input signal into a mixed audio signal which passes out of the enclosure. A video input signal passes into the enclosure and directly connects to a video output signal that passes out of the enclosure.

Abstract: A digital camera (1) performs shooting such that each student within a classroom is included in a subject, uses an optical flow to detect the action of standing up from a chair or the action of moving a mouth by a student who needs to be a speaker, thus specifies the position of the speaker (any of the students) on a shooting image and extracts image data on the face portion of the speaker. A PC (2) uses a projector (3) to display a material on a screen (4), and superimposes and displays, when the extracted image data is transferred from the digital camera (1), a picture of the face of the speaker on the screen (4) based on the extracted image data.

Abstract: Just prior to a scheduled session with a live instructor, a student is presented with an automated lesson which prepares him for the live instruction. The automatic lesson presents and practices skills that will be needed for the live lesson. Thus, when the instructor appears, the student is entirely prepared for the live lesson and optimum use may be made if the instructor's time. After the live lesson is complete, the student may be returned to an automated debriefing, which helps imprint major aspects of the live lesson of the students of mine. Thus, the learning process is improved through the combination of live and automatic instruction.

Abstract: An oral care implement has a user-interactive display that displays images representing oral care regions of the mouth. The user can interact with the display by playing a game, which can relate to oral care. An oral care implement has a plurality of lighted segments that can be sequentially illuminated to indicate a recommended brushing sequence. The lighted segments can be shaped and/or labeled to indicate particular oral care regions of the mouth. In accordance with another aspect, an oral care implement can be equipped with features to encourage social interaction between two or more individuals.

Abstract: A method for providing training media to a mobile device involves obtaining a training media file selected from multiple training media files, based on user metadata, and communicating the training media file to the mobile device, where the user metadata is associated with a user of the mobile device, and where the training media file includes training information associated with a job function of the user.

Abstract: A system and system are provided for providing synchronous multimedia recording and playback. Aspects the exemplary embodiment include in response to a training session is being conducted, synchronously recording in real-time simulator data from a simulator captured by a simulator capture tool, and video of the training session captured by a plurality of A/V sources; encoding each of the videos captured by the plurality of A/V sources as respective digital media files formatted as streaming media; and transmitting both the simulator data and the video media files from a server to a client over a network, such that when the client receives the simulator data and the stream, the respective videos are synchronously played back with the simulator data on the client.

Abstract: A game is provided for teaching users about conditions affecting the human body. The game may include a game zone representing a body inflicted with a condition, a number of opponents representing attributes of the condition, and at least one character representing the user. The user may be asked a number of questions, and be required to answer the questions to obtain one or more weapons for overcoming the opponents. The story line of the game may represent the progression of the condition, and may require elimination of at least some of the opponents in order to overcome the condition and win the game.

Abstract: An oral care implement has an interactive display that displays images representing oral care regions of the mouth. The user can interact with the display by playing a game, which can relate to oral care. An oral care implement has a plurality of lighted segments that can be sequentially illuminated to indicate a recommended brushing sequence. The lighted segments can be shaped and/or labeled to indicate particular oral care regions of the mouth.

Abstract: A system for reproducing audio information corresponding to a position within a displayed image comprising an image display device (1) which shows an image, an audio output device (2) which outputs an electromagnetic wave modulated by audio information toward any given positions in the image shown on the image display device (1), and an audio reproducing terminal (3) which receives the electromagnetic wave at the position in the image, converts it to an electric signal and reproduces sound from that electric signal, wherein audio information support can be individually realized for each of the users watching the image.

Abstract: Embodiments of a method and system for developing a training program for a trainee are provided. In one embodiment, in a training system, the method may include profiling the trainee by processing at least one of physiological data, psychological data and training program data associated with the trainee; designing a training program for the trainee in accordance with the profile of the trainee; receiving training activity data communicated in association with the trainee performing at least one training activity; and, automatically modifying at least a portion of the training program in the training system in accordance with at least the communicated training activity data.