Abstract: According to an aspect of an embodiment, a method of providing a virtual class includes providing access to temporally-dimensioned educational material to participants of the virtual class in a social network. The method may also include capturing supplemental material generated by the participants interacting with each other in real-time in the social network. The method may also include associating the supplemental material with a range of relative time within the temporally-dimensioned educational material. The method may also include providing the temporally-dimensioned educational material to a client device associated with a participant of the virtual class. The method may also include providing the supplemental material to the client device for presentation at the client device during the range of relative time within the temporally-dimensioned educational material.

Abstract: The invention describes a system and method for allowing an individual to view an educational program remotely. In the preferred embodiment, the invention is used as a healthcare education system. The system comprises a file server which is connected to a database holding the educational programs. A remote interface connected to the file server allows an administrator to assign educational programs to an individual. The remote interface also includes a memory card writer which records the individual's identification code and the address of the file server on a memory card. The individual is given the memory card to take home. When the individual places the memory card in the memory card reader of a multimedia processor, the processor uses the file server address to automatically connect to the file server. The file server receives the individual's identification code from the processor, retrieves the corresponding educational program from the database, and sends the program to the processor to be displayed.

Abstract: An interactive computer system and method collects, aggregates and distributes information derived from free-text responses to questions. The system and method collect free-text responses from a subject user and aggregates them with free-text responses from other users. The system and method then uses these free-text responses in learning methodologies (such as temporal spacing) and styles to facilitate long-term learning and knowledge retention.

Abstract: A research polling system obtains structured data from freeform text answers in a research poll. The system includes a database of objects that may represent answers to a research poll. The system presents a research poll to a user, where the research poll includes at least one freeform text field among the answers in the poll. A user answering the poll provides a partial user input to a research poll question in the text field. In response, the system searches for objects in the database that match the user's input, and optionally also based on the question. If one or more matching objects are found, the system presents the matching objects in a listing interface, from which the user may select an object for the answer to the poll question.

Abstract: The present invention is a learning organizer for assisting a learner. The learning organizer comprises a sheet having a front portion and a rear portion, the sheet folded substantially along a central line to form a first half and a second half, a plurality of flaps located on the first half, a plurality of holes provided along and proximate to the central line and punched through the first half and the second half, a plurality of lines on the rear portion and a plurality of fill-in-blanks pre-printed on the second half to write details of the learner. Each of the plurality of flaps includes a plurality of perforations and a plurality of scorings. The plurality of lines is provided for neat writing. The learning organizer allows the learner to write down learning information into each of the plurality of flaps so as to present, organize, learn and memorize learning concepts.

Abstract: A computer implemented method and system for rendering time sensitive responses to a query associated with a target location is provided. A query-response management server receives a query containing information on a target location from a first client application on a requesting user's requesting device via a network. The query-response management server dynamically retrieves location information and activity information of each of multiple responding users via the network and identifies one or more of the responding users proximal to the target location based on the location information and the activity information. The query-response management server transmits the query to a second client application on a responding device of each of the identified responding users via the network.

Abstract: A method, a system, and a computer program product for creating and conducting a survey are disclosed. While creating the survey, one or more answer formats corresponding to each of the one or more questions are defined. Then, answering mediums corresponding to each of the one or more answer formats are defined. The survey is then created based on at least one of the questions, the answer formats, and the answering mediums. The survey is then available to the associated users. While conducting the survey, the system receives answers for the questions in the survey through the answering mediums in their associated answer format, and compiles a survey report.

Abstract: According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a system for a remote instructional session comprises one or more servers (240). The one or more servers receive, from an endpoint (220) corresponding to an instructor, information associated with a schedule for which users may book time for an instructional session with the instructor (440). The one or more servers also receive, from an endpoint (210) corresponding to a user, search parameters for instructors (340) and then provide, to the endpoint corresponding to the user, search results corresponding to the search parameters for the instructors. The one or more servers additionally receive, from the endpoint corresponding to the user, booking information for a particular time with the instructor (350) and then initiate a remote instructional session over a instructional session over a network at the particular time (370, 460).

Abstract: The real time learning system and method provides a self learning environment to learn language or subjects faster and easier using textual content obtained in real time. The system is a computer-aided and management educational system that includes a real-time content processing module, a learning management Module, a content management database, an exercise generator module with Dictionaries, Picture Media, Music Libraries, Life Management and a User block. The system transforms any Real Time textual information into learning content and implements user learning exercises. Learning exercises are automatically created as multiple choice tests, filling blanks, quizzes, puzzles, crosswords, etc. from this learning content in real-time, based on a teacher or student online request for information.

Abstract: Interactive electronic training systems and methods are described herein. Certain embodiments provide preprogrammed video, audio, and/or textual presentations of training materials which provide information related to skills/information to be trained. A scenario including real or animated actors is presented, simulating an interaction. The training system presents related queries for the trainee who audibly responds. The training system stores a score based in part on a comparison of the trainee's response with an answer stored in training system memory. Optionally, the scores are substantially immediately presented by the system to the trainee.

Abstract: Test stimuli for visual media may be generated by incorporation of one or more element images selected from a library into a presentation area. The test stimuli may be displayed or presented to one or more subjects and metrics indicating the attentiveness of the subjects to various locations in the composite image may be measured. These metrics may be analyzed with placement parameters for incorporation of the element images into the composite image to determine subject reactions to various aspects of the test stimuli.

Abstract: A computing device determines a matrix reasoning assessment (MRA) to assess fluid intelligence of a user operating a client computer/device. The MRA includes a matrix having designs in design spaces, where the designs form one or more patterns. The matrix has one or more design spaces in the matrix that are missing a design. Examples of a design include, without limitation, a number, a letter, a symbol. a shape, a picture, an image, a photograph, an icon, an animation, a video, audio, or any other symbol, character, or representation that can be used in a pattern. In one embodiment, the computing device transmits the matrix to the client device. The user responds with a design for the “empty” design space (i.e., the design space previously missing a design) and the computing device receives this design selection.

Abstract: A method of capturing student performance can be provided that includes enabling a course creator to generate assessment data related to learning assessments for an online course and to generate learning outcomes for the online course, associating the assessment data with the learning outcomes, such that at least some of the learning assessments correspond to at least some of the learning outcomes, and generating an online classroom. The method may further include providing the learning assessments to students enrolled in the online course using the online classroom, wherein the students can generate completed learning assessments, and determining, for each of the completed learning assessments, whether one or more of the learning outcomes were met by each of the students.

Abstract: A method of play, wherein play emphasizes storytelling and story recounting abilities, and wherein the method comprises: (a) providing a gaining device which provides for: a plurality of subject elements, wherein each subject element from the plurality of subject elements comprises a topic for a particular story; and a plurality of situational elements, wherein each situational element from the plurality of situational elements qualifies the subject element; (b) pairing a subject element from the plurality of subject elements with a situational element from the plurality of situational elements; and (c) providing a story based on the paired subject element and selected situational element.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to interactive training, and in particular, to methods and systems for computerized interactive skill training. An example embodiment provides a method and system for providing skill training using a computerized system. The computerized system receives a selection of a first training subject. Several related training components can be invoked, such as reading, watching, performing, and/or reviewing components. In addition, a scored challenge session is provided, wherein a training challenge is provided to a user via a terminal, optionally in video form.

Abstract: An electronic education service module identifies a target education topic for a user and obtains user profile information associated with the user from a database communicatively coupled to the electronic education service. A plurality of tasks to provide the target education topic are identified based on the identified target education topic and the obtained user profile information. Execution of actions by application service providing modules, other than the electronic education service, to carry out the identified tasks is requested to provide the target education topic to the user.

Abstract: A method for training a user in a medical procedure utilizes an interactive computer system with a virtual representation of at least one organ and at least one instrument. The representation of surface area parts of the virtual organ to be treated are covered with a graphical identification marker. The computer system includes a table stored in memory comprising situations arising within the medical procedure predefined through positions of the instrument(s), positions of the organ(s), the logical sequence of steps to be executed within the medical procedure, different aspect values for the graphical identification markers and assessment values for the situation. Upon interaction of the user with the organ and the instrument, graphical identification markers change their aspect according to the stored value in the table for the predefined situation and the corresponding assessment value is stored in a history log table within the computer system.

Abstract: A method, computer-readable medium and system for implementing electronic flashcards are disclosed. The method is capable of generating data operable to display a first set of information in a first region of a graphical user interface, in which the data is further operable to cause a display of the first set of information while a second set of information is not displayed. The first and second sets of information are associated with a first electronic flashcard. Data operable to display the second set of information in a second region of the graphical user interface is generated, in which the data is further operable to cause a display of the second set of information responsive to a request to display the second set of information. Data operable to display a second electronic flashcard in a third region of the graphical user interface is generated.

Abstract: Means are provided for recording, storing, calculating, communicating and reviewing one or more operational aspects of a machine. Insurance costs are based, in part, on activities of the machine operator. A discount may be provided in exchange for recording the operational aspects and providing the recorded information to the insurer. The party may review information and decide whether to provide it to the insurer. The means for reviewing may present comparative information. Information that causes insurance costs to vary may be highlighted. Provided data may be used to verify insurance application information, generate actuarial information or determine insurance rates. Operating data may be reviewed on a display medium so a party can observe how his operating behavior compares to that of other operators of similar machines and may be manipulated so a party can understand how changes in operating behavior can affect his insurance rates.

Abstract: Anonymous pretesting items for subsequent presentation to participants in a group enable an instructor to validate responses and revise the items accordingly.

Abstract: A question item comprising: textual, visual or auditory subject matter; a query or instruction pertaining to the subject matter; and a representation of a response mechanism for receiving a user response to the query or instruction, may be retrieved from a data store. The subject matter, query or instruction and response mechanism may be presented in a presentation sequence, wherein a presentation duration of each of the subject matter, query or instruction and response mechanism is controlled by user input. Based on the user input, a presentation duration of each of the subject matter, query or instruction, and response mechanism may be determined. Each of the three presentation durations may be stored. A completion time may be determined based on one or more of the presentation durations and may be stored along with response accuracy, for use in calculating a user competency measure for the question item.

Abstract: A mobile based learning and testing system comprising a mobile device for mobile based learning and testing, wherein the mobile device is communicatively coupled to a server that supports retrieving educational and instructional material and testing. The mobile device comprises a downloadable educational mobile app capable of presenting educational and instructional material retrieved from the server, facilitating group interactions, providing a mock test, conducting an actual test and arranging automatic registration of a user of the mobile device based on a test result from the actual test. The downloadable educational mobile app presents the educational and instructional material (retrieved from the server, or locally available in the mobile device where it is stored in storage components) to the user of the mobile device based at least on the user's membership in a group of users, the user's membership information being maintained by the server.

Abstract: A computer-based matching system for educators based on specific criteria related to blended instructional practices. The system promotes collaboration around blended learning initiatives and the use of digital/online resources to support instruction. Subscribers wishing to be matched with other educators may complete a questionnaire about courses that they have taught or are currently teaching. Matching criteria may include course information and the current use of digital resources and technology. The information from the questionnaire will be entered into a database. The subscriber will be able to view system-generated matches, or other educators who have implemented/are implementing the same or similar type of instructional model with the same or similar restraints, such as the number of devices (computers/tablets) available in the classroom and the current instructional delivery model.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method of overseeing and adjusting the instruction and evaluation of a student with respect to one or more topics of study within a classroom. The subject matter of an academic course is studied and broken down into a plurality of discretely defined behavioral performances designed to be readily and objectively recognized as being mastered or not by a student. One or more of the discretely defined behavioral performances are then selected, with the aid of a first computerized database system, as learning objectives for the week. At the end of the week, a student is subsequently evaluated on these objectives. Results of the evaluation are then transferred to a second computerized database system, which organizes the collected data into an interactive learning management report that can be configured by a reviewer in real time to display a variety of levels of detail.

Abstract: A system and method for rating an essay writing using a statistical system so it can be applied on any language with very few changes. The system comprising multiple modules capable of providing a style score, a punctuation score, a spelling score, a quotation score, an enrichment score, a syntax analysis score, a focus score, an idea score and a cohesion score. The scores are then combined to provide a final overall rating of the essay.

Abstract: A method and a device are provided. In at least one embodiment, the method includes receiving an indication of selection of a key from a keyboard, including at least one of a polysemous symbol and a compilation symbol; and displaying a scene related to the selected at least one of a polysemous symbol and a compilation symbol. In at least one embodiment, the device includes a keyboard including a plurality of keys including polysemous symbols; and a display to display, on at least a portion thereof and in response to receiving an indication of selection of a key including at least one of a polysemous symbol and a compilation symbol, a scene related to the selected at least one of a polysemous symbol and a compilation symbol.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to interactive training, and in particular, to methods and systems for computerized interactive skill training. An example embodiment provides a method and system for providing skill training using a computerized system. The computerized system receives a selection of a first training subject. A training challenge related to the first training subject is accessed from computer readable memory. The training challenge is provided to a user via a terminal, optionally in verbal form. A first score related to the correctness and/or completeness of a verbalized challenge response provided by the user is stored in memory. A second score related to how quickly the trainee provided the verbalized challenge response is stored in memory. A third challenge score related to the confidence and/or style with which the trainee verbalized the challenge response is stored in memory.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus, comprising one or more databases relating interactive media, auctions, and user accounts, the user accounts comprising login information, advertising file information, and bidding information; and in communication with one or more user devices, wherein the one or more user devices may be used to place a bid in one of the auctions by one of the user accounts for one of the interactive media, and wherein an auction ends and a winning bid is determined, and the advertising file information associated with the winning bid is dynamically incorporated into the interactive media.

Abstract: A computerized educational method and system that provides educational content using a simulation situation. In one embodiment, one or more medical conditions and a question may be presented about a hypothetical patient using a video display system. The learner may select from a plurality of potential responses to the question. Typically, the plurality of potential responses are categorized into a correct category, a reasonable category, and a wrong category. Upon receiving a selection from the plurality of potential responses, the learner is provided with the category to which the selected response corresponds.

Abstract: The present invention is related to interactive training. In one embodiment, a training system presents a stored scenario to a user via a terminal. The user is provided with the ability to intervene and stop the pre-recorded scenario to identify an error in handling the situation presented in the scenario and/or an opportunity presented in the scenario. Once the user has intervened, the user can be presented with a question regarding the opportunity and/or error. The user is scored based in part on the number of errors and/or opportunities that the user identified and optionally on the user's response to the question.

Abstract: A method of presenting educational content to a plurality of students in a classroom includes displaying the educational content on an instructor terminal in the classroom. A synchronization command is wirelessly transmitted to a plurality of portable student terminals in the classroom according to a localized wireless connection protocol. The synchronization command is configured to display, on the plurality of portable student terminals, the educational content that is displayed on the instructor terminal. The plurality of portable student terminals may be respectively associated with ones of the plurality of students who are registered for an academic course associated with the educational content. An ad hoc wireless data connection may also be selectively established with at least one of the plurality of portable student terminals in the classroom. Related systems, devices, and computer program products are also discussed.

Abstract: A method and system for supporting and enhancing time management skills. Through the use of an electronic time management device, such as a cell phone or other portable digital computer based device programmed to support this method, the user enters information about a task which is then verified and “banked points” are given for correct entry. The banked points can then be used toward a socially desirable reward, such as sending text messages or playing music or watching videos. This is particularly effective in teaching time management skills to young students who may have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Abstract: What is disclosed is a novel system and method to control an imaging device. A first collection of a plurality of two-dimensional image points in a first vector space for a source image and a second collection of a plurality of two-dimensional image points in a second vector space for a target image are received. The first collection of two-dimensional image points and the second collection of two-dimensional image points are converted into a homogenous form to apply affine matrix transformations. A matrix transformation is solved to map the first collection of the plurality of two-dimensional image points to the second collection of the plurality of two-dimensional image points. The matrix transformation is used to adjust distortion of the target image in an imaging device.

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 method and an apparatus to provide machine-assisted training have been disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes monitoring action performed by a trainee during machine-assisted training and dynamically adjusting the machine-assisted training in response to the trainee's action. Other embodiments have been claimed and described.

Abstract: A system that delivers a sequence of learning objectives to a student in accordance with one or more target dates. The target dates may be set by an academic institution, a teacher, or a parent of the student. The system adjusts the sequence of learning objectives based on the target dates assigned to one or more of the learning objectives. The system estimates how long it will take for the student to progress through a sequence of learning objectives and notifies an administrator if the student is behind schedule. The notification to the administrator may include recommendations for remedial actions.

Abstract: The system automatically personalizes the assignment of problems to students in learning situations to enable every student to learn as efficiently and effectively as possible. Students are continuously tracked on their individual learning curve so that both they and their teachers can immediately see their progress and growth, and assess their need for additional support or instruction. Further, the system can immediately grade each exercise and provide instant feedback to both students and teachers without burdening the teacher with the grading of homework. Still further, the system incorporates a teacher settable mastery level control and a student learning efficiency meter that returns the “locus of control” over learning back to the student to enhance their concentration and motivate effective, efficient learning by enabling them to do just the number of problems that it takes to reach mastery of the topic or lesson.

Abstract: Whilst partaking in a traditional electronic questionnaire survey, responses given by any one respondent are almost always influenced by that person's emotional state due to the survey format. This emotional content skews the results thus obtained making them inaccurate, so that statistical methods become necessary to interpret the results. Such a statistical analyses requires not only a minimum sample size but also to be interpreted, which can also lead to false, non repeatable results. However, by structuring the system and method of the electronic questionnaire survey in accordance with a strict set of guidelines, it is possible to measure a respondent's views on any subject matter both emotionally and rationally, together with the respondent's level of conviction. By comparing the emotional responses with the rational responses, a truly quantifiable and repeatable measure of respondent satisfaction towards the subject matter can be achieved, which also allows benchmarking as an added benefit.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for delivering instructional information and include displaying instructional information on several visual displays prior to a triggering event and displaying the instructional information in an instructional varying display pattern on the at least three visual displays after the triggering event so a person viewing the instructional varying display pattern is unable to detect a repeatable pattern. Also included is displaying background information on each display not displaying instructional information. The background information is displayed with a background varying display pattern so a person is unable to detect a repeatable pattern.

Abstract: An educational and fun computer process in which a user selects a figurative expression displayed on a screen. The figurative expressions are, for example, metaphors, allusions, puns, double entendres, anagrams, cropped terms, and other nonliteral terms. A pop-up space instantly appears that presents educational content about the figurative expression. A complementary related trivia is presented in various possible formats to enliven the learning experience. The complementary trivia can be related to the figurative expression, or the associated information displayed on the screen, or the educational content, or the trivia itself. The educational content can be, for example, meanings, reference materials, literary reviews, interpretations, and images or moving images. The reference materials are, for example, dictionary entries like definitions, senses, parts of speech, antonyms, and etymologies.

Abstract: An operating device for early education is provided. The operating device includes an operating console comprising a plurality of various keyboards around an edge of the operating console used for receiving keystrokes, a data transceiver used for transmitting encoding information corresponding to keystrokes to a portable device and receiving activation controlling information from the portable device used for activating a keyboard, and a plurality of controlling keys used for receiving selection controlling information and transmitting the selection controlling information to the portable device by the data transceiver. Advantageously, the operating device includes a plurality of various keyboards that is independent of the portable device, which is convenient for children's operation/input. Additionally, a plurality of various keyboards are provided, advantageously, more learning content interacted by means of the various keyboards can be provided by the application programs via the portable devices.

Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods for providing music based cognitive skills development. More particularly the present invention may provide a music based cognitive skills development platform. The platform is provided using computer implemented systems and methods for training a human subject so as to enhance his/her intelligence, attention, language skills and brain functioning. The present invention provides these benefits using exercises, one or more of which are based on musical training aspects, however, in addition to musical training other cognitive skills development exercises may be used, as described herein. The invention may be utilized by users of varying musical skills and may be presented at a level corresponding to the prior musical training (if any) of a user, and in a form corresponding to the cognitive capacity, interests and attention span of a user.

Abstract: One embodiment includes a computer-implemented method using a window environment of a display, with a detached imaging sensor, to enable a user to learn. Another embodiment includes a computer-implemented system helping a user learn using a detached imaging sensor. In yet another embodiment, a computer-implemented system monitors automatically more than once a user's behavior while the user is working on materials. Through monitoring the user's volitional or involuntary behavior, the system determines whether to change what is to be presented by the display. The change could include providing rewards, punishments, and stimulation; or changing the materials. The system can also react by asking the user a question. Based on the user's response, the system may change to more appropriate materials, or different presentation styles.

Abstract: A computer system is provided for automatically answering natural language questions. The system has an input to receive natural language questions and a data store to record linked pairs of questions and corresponding answers. A matcher is configured to compare a received natural language question with the linked question and answer pairs, and an output transfers the received natural language question to a researcher if no matches are found. The system links pairs of questions and corresponding answers into groups, to enable the generation of a prototypical answer for each group of pairs of questions and answers.

Abstract: One embodiment includes a computer-implemented method using a window environment of a display, with a detached imaging sensor, to enable a user to learn. Another embodiment includes a computer-implemented system helping a user learn using a detached imaging sensor. In yet another embodiment, a computer-implemented system monitors automatically more than once a user's behavior while the user is working on materials. Through monitoring the user's volitional or involuntary behavior, the system determines whether to change what is to be presented by the display. The change could include providing rewards, punishments, and stimulation; or changing the materials. The system can also react by asking the user a question. Based on the user's response, the system may change to more appropriate materials, or different presentation styles.

Abstract: A method performed by one or more processing devices, comprises: displaying, through a graphical user interface, test information in a layered structure; wherein a first layer in the layered structure is configured to display the test information following selection of a control in the graphical user interface; wherein a second layer in the layered structure is configured to display the test information following a display of the test information in the first layer; receiving, through the graphical user interface, one or more answers to one or more questions received in the test information; and generating, in response to receiving, information indicative of a test score.

Abstract: A choice generation method for a numerical multiple choice question comprises steps: establishing a numerical multiple choice question, and obtaining a correct numerical answer of the numerical multiple choice question; determining the number of numerical choices for the numerical multiple choice question; and generating a plurality of the numerical choices either greater or smaller than the correct numerical answer according to a choice-answer relationship. The present invention applies to generate numerical choices for a numerical multiple choice question, and the generated numerical choices are different from the numerical correct answer.

Abstract: In view of the foregoing, an embodiment herein provides a learning system accessory (herein referred as LSA) which can be integrated with a portable handheld device and use the resultant system as a learning tool for kids. In an embodiment, a keypad including plurality of keys is provided in the LSA. The keys can be divided into a number of categories depending on their function. Further, an “Apps” key is provided to segregate the LSA-supported Apps from the other Apps available on the portable handheld device. The keys in the keypad the can be mapped according to the user's need, such that the pressing of a certain key would launch a specific App. In addition, LED indicators provided on the LSA can be customized to respond in a certain manner, as decided by the learning application running on the portable handheld device.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments are directed to respondent selection approaches for surveys, such as online surveys. The respondent selection approaches can be provide a selection process that is source independent to select individual respondents based on characteristics of the individual respondents, rather than based on characteristics of the source (e.g., group) with which the respondent is associated. Exemplary embodiments can advantageously use an estimate of a propensity score to select respondents for a survey before the survey is conducted.

Abstract: Methods and systems for school analysis and improvement are disclosed. A computerized system is provided that is accessible to remote parties through a computer network and that are controlled by a managing entity. An option is presented to the administrator to administer surveys and diagnostics via the computerized system. The surveys and diagnostics request data regarding performance of the school as well as data responsive to the surveys and diagnostics. The data responsive to the surveys and diagnostics and the performance data are stored into a database managed by the managing entity. An administrator of the school is presented the responsive data and the performance data, and thereafter, data is received from the administrator describing one or more desired objectives for the school.