Abstract: The illustrative embodiments described herein provide systems and methods for notifying a user when a set of characters are identified in a media file. In one embodiment, a method includes receiving a set of characters inputted by the user of a computing device, playing the media file, transcribing the media file to form a transcription, and determining whether the transcription of the media file includes the set of characters. The method also includes initiating a notification prompt on a graphical user interface of the computing device in response to determining that the media file includes the set of characters.

Abstract: Methods, systems and computer program products for operating a voice response system are provided. Aspects include receiving, by the voice response system, a voice command from a first user and determining an operating mode of the voice response system. Aspects also include obtaining, by the voice response system, a response preference of the first user and determining a response to the voice command. The response is determined based at least in part on the response preference of the first user and the operating mode of the voice response system. Aspects also include providing the response to the first user.

Abstract: A server sends, to an electronic device of a first user, a data structure that includes a hierarchical interaction tree having a plurality of interaction nodes. The server then receives, from the electronic device of the first user, a first message, wherein the first message from the electronic device of the first user is selected from a set of predefined first-reply messages. Each first-reply message of the set of predefined first-reply messages corresponds to a distinct interaction node of the hierarchical interaction tree.

Abstract: A system for and a method of generating an audio image for use in rendering audio. The method comprises accessing an audio stream; accessing positional information, the positional information comprising a first position, a second position and a third position; and generating an audio image. In some embodiments, generating the audio image comprises generating, based on the audio stream, a first virtual wave front to be perceived by a listener as emanating from the first position; generating, based on the audio stream, a second virtual wave front to be perceived by the listener as emanating from the second position; and generating, based on the audio stream, a third virtual wave front to be perceived by the listener as emanating from the third position.

Abstract: An electronic device of a second user receives, from a first user, a first message. Subsequent to receiving the first message, the electronic device sends, to the first user, a second message responsive to the first message, wherein the second message is selected from a set of predefined first-reply messages. The set of predefined first-reply messages is based on first-reply factors for the second user, including content from one or more messages between the first user and the second user, and including one or more of: relationship characteristics between the first user and the second user, information provided by the first user and/or the second user to a social network, profile characteristics of the first user and/or the second user, environmental characteristics of the first user and/or the second user, and/or technical characteristics of the electronic device of the first user and/or the second user.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering selected multimedia content to a user of a mobile device in a pervasive computing environment is disclosed. Communications with a mobile device in the environment is established. A user profile and viewing history is received from the mobile device. Multimedia content is selected and sequenced for viewing by the user. The selection of multimedia content is based on search logic that includes the user profile and viewing history. Metadata is transmitted to the mobile device that is associated with the selected multimedia content.

Abstract: One embodiment provides a method, including but not limited to: identifying, using a data capture device, a listener; determining, using a processor, audio content is inappropriate; and executing, using a processor, an action, wherein the action prevents the inappropriate audio content from being audible. Other aspects are described and claimed.

Abstract: An unitary electronic speaker device and method for rendering digital audio data are provided. A list comprising an ordered sequence of audio item indicators indicating a plurality of audio items stored on at least one other device. is received in an embodiment. In one embodiment, the unitary electronic speaker device does not have any storage space other than the memory, and uses the hard disk embodied in at least one other device to supply the digital audio data. The audio data is received and rendered at the unitary electronic speaker device in according to the sequence defined by the list. Any number of the unitary electronic speaker devices may be connected in a network with the at least one other device. In one embodiment a plurality of unitary electronic speaker devices are connected through a LAN using Ethernet.

Abstract: An information processing apparatus includes a display, an input unit, and a controller. The input unit is configured to receive an input of a first keyword from a user. The controller is configured to retrieve first character information including the input first keyword from a database configured to store a plurality of character information items converted from a plurality of voice information items by voice recognition processing, extract a second keyword that is included in the first character information acquired by the retrieval and is different from the first keyword, and control the display to display a list of items including first identification information with which the acquired first character information is identified and the second keyword included in the first character information.

Abstract: A system and related method to optimize the process of getting a child to fall asleep. The system is a computer-implemented system comprising a set of functions or algorithms to assist a child develop a routine to fall asleep. The particular routines are dependent on the age of the child, with three categories being toddlers, preschoolers and school-age children. The routines include providing for the generation of a set of sounds for selectable periods of time, dependent on the age group. The sounds include lullabies, stories, songs and white noise. The time periods range from 15-45 minutes. The method involving the use of the sound generation routine establishes a regularity of process that comforts a child and enhances the likelihood of a good transition to sleep.

Abstract: In general, techniques are described for locating a user using an ultrasound mesh. The techniques may be performed by an interactive system comprising one or more processors. The processors may be configured to determine an amplitude of a first ultrasound signal emitted by one or more transducers and received by a microphone. This first ultrasound signal may be of a first frequency. The processors may then determine an amplitude of a second ultrasound signal emitted by the one or more transducers and received by the microphone. The second ultrasound signal may be of a second frequency different from the first frequency. The processors may be further configured to determine a location of the microphone relative to the one or more transducers based at least on the determined amplitude of the first ultrasound signal and the determined amplitude of the second ultrasound signal.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for correlating an electronic book with a narration. A correlation is determined between a first portion of the narration and a first segment of the text within the electronic book. The correlation is stored as instructions to present the first segment of the text with emphasis simultaneously with playback of the first the portion of the narration. A determination is made that a second portion of the audio recording, immediately following the first portion, does not match a second segment of the text that immediately follows the first segment. A correlation between the second portion and a component of the electronic book is determined and stored as instructions to present the component with emphasis simultaneously with playback of the second portion of the narration.

Abstract: The invention relates to an interactive educational system comprising a playground installation and a handheld computer device, where the playground installation comprises a three-dimensional physical object relating to an educational theme, and wherein the computer device comprises a digital educational content element relating to the same educational theme. The digital educational content element comprises a digital representation of the physical object of the playground installation thereby allowing a user to relate the physical object to its corresponding digital representation such as to increase the users understanding of the educational theme. The playground installation may comprise an ID element identifiable by the computer device for identification of the educational theme of the playground installation.

Abstract: A search request for educational content can be initiated by a user, and the educational content that is relevant to the search request can be identified. The identified educational content can be ranked based on the number of times the content has been referenced as well as the university or other educational institution that referenced the educational content. The relevant identified educational content can then be displayed in an ordered list that is ordered based on the number of times the content has been assigned.

Abstract: Embodiments provide techniques for dynamically creating a story for playback using a plurality of storytelling devices. Embodiments identify a plurality of storytelling devices available to participate in a storytelling experience. User input associated with the storytelling experience is received. Embodiments further include retrieving a story template based at least in part on the identified plurality of storytelling devices. Additionally, embodiments dynamically create a first story by mapping actions from the retrieved story template to storytelling devices in the plurality of storytelling devices, based at least in part on the received user input, such that the plurality of storytelling devices will perform a respective one or more actions during playback of the first story based on the mapped actions from the retrieved story template.

Abstract: An electronic textbook includes nodes containing items of educational content, and a plurality of paths through the nodes. Each path represents a different organization of the nodes in the electronic textbook. The paths are tailored to the educational needs of the users of the electronic textbook. As a user traverses the nodes of the electronic textbook, the user creates a personalized path. The user can add comments to the nodes and connections of this path. These paths and associated comments are made available to other users of the electronic textbook.

Abstract: A processor implemented method for scoring a challenge taken by a user, and training the user using a simulation based learning platform is provided. The processor implemented method includes (i) obtaining, from a database, challenges to be taken by a user and associated at least one of information, (iii) processing a selection of, the challenge from the challenges with actions or steps performed by the user, (iv) rendering, hints to solve the challenge, (v) recording, steps taken by the user to solve the challenge, (vi) comparing the steps taken by the user with steps taken by an expert to solve the challenge to compute a deviance of the user from a reference path, (vii) scoring, the challenge based on the deviance of the user from the reference path to obtain a score, and (viii) notifying, a result associated with the challenge to the user based on the score.

Abstract: An audio command system is provided which allows multiple sets of spoken instructions or commands to be stored in a digital memory and later broadcast to workers in various environments. The system includes a transducer, an analog-to-digital converter, and a voice memory. A control unit is provided for selecting a desired set of commands to be accessed from the voice memory and broadcast to the workers. A method of supervising workers using the audio command includes the steps of converting a plurality of sets of spoken commands into a plurality of sets of digital signals, storing each set of digital signals in a unique location in a memory device, selecting an operation to be performed, accessing the set of stored digital signals corresponding to the selected command set, converting the digital signals corresponding to the selected operation back into spoken commands, and broadcasting the spoken commands to the at least one worker.

Abstract: A system and method for training a student employ a simulation station that displays output to the student and receives input. The computer system has a rules engine operating on it and computer accessible data storage storing (i) learning object data including learning objects configured to provide interaction with the student at the simulation system and (ii) rule data defining a plurality of rules accessed by the rules engine. The rules data includes, for each rule, respective (a) if-portion data defining a condition of data and (o) then-portion data defining an action to be performed at the simulation station. The rules engine causes the computer system to perform the action when the condition of data is present in the data storage. For at least some of the rules, the action comprises output of one of the learning objects so as to interact with the student. The system may be networked with middleware and adapters that map data received over the network to rules engine memory.

Abstract: Methods, systems and computer readable media for active learning are described. Some implementations can include an augmented media active learning system comprising one or more processors coupled to a database, wherein the one or more processors are configured to perform operations. The operations can include receiving a media content item, and receiving one or more gate groups from a system associated with an instructor, wherein each gate groups includes a location at which the gate should appear in the media content item, gate content and one or more gate response attributes. The operations can also include combining the one or more gate groups and the media content item to generate an augmented media content item, and storing the augmented media content item in the database.

Abstract: Disclosed embodiment relates to a talking shoe for kids. In a preferred embodiment, a communication apparatus is disposed with a detection device. In this embodiment, the detection device comprise of nano sensors embedded in silicon substrate disposed in micro/nano-fibers.

Abstract: Systems and methods for training users to more proficiently make wildlife calls, whether for hunting or other purposes, are described herein. For instance, an embodiment of an interactive learning system can train an enthusiast to more consistently and proficiently make calls that are efficacious with attracting wildlife. The system may implement advanced signal processing techniques that can compare a user-generated signal (attempting to mimic a wildlife call) with a prerecorded wildlife call. The system may provide feedback to the user to enable the user to assess his or her performance in reproducing the wildlife call. The user can use the feedback to improve reproduction of the wildlife call.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide apparatus, systems and methods for detecting neurological activity indicative of a dream state of a human. Many embodiments of the invention provide apparatus, systems and methods for detecting neurological activity of a human indicative of a dream state or the onset thereof and delivering an input to the user (such as an audio or other sensory input) during the dream state. Particular embodiments of the invention provide systems and methods for detecting neurological activity indicative of the onset or occurrence of a dream state of a human and delivering an audio or other sensory input during the user's dream state. The audio input may be used for learning, delivering messages to the user's subconscious, and/or promoting a state of relaxation.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus for equalization preference learning are provided. An example method includes receiving a first label for a first audio concept for a media object and applying active learning to select a first example not yet rated by a first current user. The example method includes collecting a first user rating, by the first current user, of the first example compared to the first audio concept and applying transfer learning to combine the first user rating with ratings from prior users of examples not yet rated by the first current user to build a model of the first audio concept. The example method includes creating a tool operable by the first user to generate examples close to and far from the first label to modify the media object.

Abstract: A device to be used as a memory aid. The device consists of a microphone (FIG. 1) wired to an amplifier (FIG. 2) wired to a speaker (FIG. 3). Sound from the speaker (FIG. 3) is aimed at and pressed against a person's skin (FIG. 3). Ear plugs or muffs shall be used to prevent sound from registering on the ear drums. A person will use this device while learning something new or while memorizing. A short period of adjustment will be required for the purpose of enhancing one's ability to make use of this device. With practice over a period of time the vibrations felt with sense of touch will come to be recognized as words. Once a user has adapted, the user will then be able to listen using his sense of touch which will enhance the users short term memory. The usual method of memorization includes reading, understanding, and listening. Using these three a person creates three ties to the brain for this new memory. To improve this a person adds the use of sense of touch which adds an additional tie to the brain.

Abstract: Systems and methods for secured computer based assessment are described. In one embodiment, the method comprises capturing of proctoring data at a candidate assessment device from a candidate at predefined time intervals during an examination. The proctoring data includes biometric data, still image, and surround sound associated with the at least one candidate. The proctoring data captured at the candidate assessment device is then transmitted to a central assessment server connected to the candidate assessment device. At the central assessment server, the proctoring data is compared with registration data, of the candidate, stored in the central assessment server. Based on the comparison, malpractice by the candidate during the examination is determined when the proctoring data deviates from the registration data.

Abstract: A greeting card having an audio recording and playback device permits recording of a karaoke-style song to be played upon opening of the greeting card. A user sings along with a permanently prerecorded, karaoke-style song that is played during a recording session. The recording device is operable in either a trial mode or a use mode. In the trial mode, a user-recorded song is played back initially for the potential purchaser but is not subsequently played back to be later heard by other potential purchasers. In the use mode, which the card may be switched to after purchase by removal of a trial mode panel from the greeting card, a user-recorded karaoke-style song is played upon subsequent openings of the card. During playback, the user-recorded song is played simultaneously with the prerecorded karaoke-style recording that was played during the recording session. Additional prerecorded messages, such as voice prompts with instructions, may also be included.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods and tools that induce brain plasticity. The method involves presenting to an individual continuous noise over a period of time, and thereafter, providing the individual with tone sensitivity training or language training.

Abstract: System, method, and application to integrate a web browser and/or search engine with multiple media players-recorders into an Internet web virtual application, which a user can use to control features such as, file browsing, media recording, file creation, editing, sequencing and storing and/or file sharing. A user can select, organize, record and manage information/data/content as multimedia files or media files (MMF), create user defined media libraries to store MMF, select or create brain wave patterns, organize and make a secure personal affirmations, harmonize and blend brain wave patterns with personal affirmations a single secure subliminal file and stored in a library, select one or more MMF from playlists to be synchronized with one or more secure subliminal affirmation tracks as separate and parallel synchronized media files.

Abstract: A new information processing device for presenting information and allowing a user to input sound in relation to the presented information is provided. An information processing device 10 includes: a display section 104 that displays a sentence that is a reading-aloud target; a sound input section 102 to which sound is input; a time measuring section 105 that measures a sound input time in which the sound is input to the sound input section 102; and a test execution section 103 that determines whether or not the reading-aloud target is read aloud based on the sound input time and a silent time after the sound is input to the sound input section.

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: A child learning and safety device comprising: a housing, where the housing contains a plurality of internal components; an attachment means attached to the housing, wherein the attachment means enables the housing to wrap around a body part of a child user; an audio device as one of the internal components, where the audio device plays audio files; a location processor as one of the internal components, where the location processor monitors a location of the child user; one or more location sensors attached to a fixture within a building, where the location sensor activate an alarm within the location processor when the location processor comes within a predetermined distance of the location sensor; and a set of speakers positioned on the housing, where the set of speakers play the audio files and where the set of speaker sound the alarm when the location processor is activated.

Abstract: An approach is provided for enhancing verbal communication sessions. A verbal component of a communication session is converted into textual information. The converted textual information is scanned for a text string to trigger an application. The application is invoked to provide supplemental information about the textual information or to perform an action in response to the textual information for or on behalf of a party of the communication session. The supplemental information or a confirmation of the action is transmitted to the party.

Abstract: The invention involves training complexes and methods for optimization of the psycho-physiological condition of a person. It includes new capabilities and methods for training the skills of relaxation and activation of psycho-physiological processes. The proposed training complex consists of a training apparatus, audio-video system, training complex control system and methods for training the skills of relaxation and activation of psycho-physiological processes. Three types of training apparatus are employed: special adjustable armchair, the immersion tank and hyperbaric/hypobaric pressure chamber.

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: Audio or sound envelopes contain or are combined with a sound module for generating and playing prerecorded sound tracks upon the opening of the envelope or removal of its contents. Operation of the sound module may be activated by the opening of the envelope flap, or by removal of the envelope contents. The flap is configured with a removable strip which protects the sound module from damage before and after opening. The sound module can be replayed by repeated operation of the flap. Alternate embodiments of the audio envelopes have other structural or operational features which work in concert with the sound module.

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: Methods and devices treat treating non-stuttering pathologies having impaired or decreased communication skills by administering a frequency altered auditory feedback signal to a subject having a non-stuttering pathology while the subject is speaking or talking to thereby improve the subject's communication skills.

Abstract: A body interactively learning method is disclosed, which comprises the steps of: turning on the power of a body interactively learning apparatus while selecting an operation mode for the same; attaching a motion sensor of the body interactively learning apparatus onto body of a user; using the motion sensor to detect vibrations of the body and consequently sending the detected vibration signals to a processing unit; enabling the processing unit to perform an evaluation for determining whether the vibration signals are valid.

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: 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 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 maintenance system of an image forming apparatus is composed of an image forming apparatus and a central management apparatus connected to it via a communication line. The image forming apparatus is composed of an image forming unit for forming an image, an information output unit for outputting intra-machine information of the image forming unit, a voice information input unit for inputting voice information of a user of the image forming unit, and a first communication controller for outputting the intra-machine information and voice information via the communication line.

Abstract: An adaptable audio instruction system and method allows for tailoring and modification to audio sequences used for audio instruction of users. The tailoring and modification abilities of the system regard content and presentation details of the audio sequences to comply with user preferences and user progress in learning content contained in the audio sequences.

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: The present invention transmits sounds and/or music to an unborn baby in the mother's womb via a waist belt and speaker disposed within the belt, where the speaker connects to most audio devices via a universal audio plug. The waist belt can also be used to temporarily house/transport appropriate portable audio devices in an internal pocket. The speaker of the present invention utilizes a volume control unit that is separate from a volume control of an attached audio device and that allows for limiting and/or adjusting the sound volume delivered by the speaker. The separate volume control unit is an improvement over any previously known devices because it provides additional safety for the developing baby's hearing.

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: An adjustable hierarchical scoring method is disclosed. A hierarchical scoring structure for speech-sound data is generated. Historical data of speech-sound scoring for the speech-sound data is retrieved from a speech-sound practice database while a professional scoring result for the hierarchical scoring structure of the speech-sound data is being collected. A weight-adjusting operation is performed according to the historical data of speech-sound scoring and the professional scoring result to calculate optimum adjusting weights for each layer of the hierarchical scoring structure. Retrieved speech-sound data of a student is scored using a speech-sound scoring system and a weighted average operation is performed to the score of the speech-sound data of the student according to a corresponding adjusting weight, thereby generating the final score of the speech-sound data of the student.

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.