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

Abstract: A tutorial method for teaching the scoring of open-ended questions holistically includes displaying a student response to a scorer and permitting the scorer to access a rubric containing the rules for scoring that response. The scorer can choose a display form from a handwritten form and a typed text form that retains and originally present errors. Following the scorer's having entered a score, a model score is displayed so that a scoring efficacy may be determined. Annotations prepared by expert scorers may be accessed to enhance the learning process. In addition, a running correlation between the model and entered scores is calculated and displayed for the scorer over a tutorial session that includes attempts at scoring different responses. The system includes a processor, a workstation, and software for performing the above-described method.

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

Abstract: This invention relates to an instructional device comprising a casing snugly enclosing a first central insert component and a second insert component. Each insert component has a combination of protruding fences, walled openings, and plain openings on a top and bottom surfaces. The first central insert component and the second central insert component is stacked together with the bottom surfaces of each central insert component communicating directly with each other resulting in the top surface of the first central insert component facing away from the top surface of the second central insert component. The stacking of the bottom surfaces with each other forms a series of internal enclosures and pathways while each top surface of the central insert components forms a series of external enclosures and pathways.

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

Abstract: A method of testing a subject's competence for operating machines by successively presenting a plurality of pages of scattered images to the subject, having the subject establish a path through the scattered images on each of the plurality of pages, recording the absolute time required for the subject to establish the path through the scattered images on each of the plurality of pages, determining the relative time required for the subject to establish the path on at least two of the plurality of pages of scattered images, and classifying the subject's competence for operating machines based on the absolute time and the relative time.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a computer-based teaching system includes modifying a text file by inserting a first predetermined character at a first end of a first selected information element, and also inserting a second predetermined character at a second end of the first selected information element. A blank box is created in an area defined by the first and second predetermined character. The blank box replaces the first selected information element. Data is stored in a memory, with the data representing the first selected information element. A user interface is provided, which enables selective display of either the blank box or the first selected information element.

Abstract: An educational toy for teaching a child a sequence of letters, numbers, colors or other sequences. The toy would be provided with a plurality of segmented body portions, each of the body portions associated with a single indicia. A switch is provided on each of the segmented body portions. When this switch is depressed, an audio output associated with the indicia would be produced. After the child has memorized a series of indicia to produce a learned sequence, a switch associated with a segmented body portion having demarcation indicia would be depressed, allowing the entire sequence to be vocalized in order.

Abstract: Computer implemented training exercises present stimuli to a user and receive responses by the user to the stimuli. The stimuli are specifically selected to challenge and improve a cognitive ability of the user, e.g., the ability to perceive and understand spoken language. As a result, the stimuli cannot be changed or adapted to motivate the user through entertainment. Motivation is therefore provided by periodic reward animations which include persistent plots and characters. Progress indicators represent progress toward reward animations and represent such progression with smooth, entertaining progress animations. Randomly appearing animations and variations in rewards and immediate feedback add to the surprise and curiosity of the user and motivate further correct responses to see further random animations and variations. Progress indicators also represent a relation between the number of steps taking toward completion of a task and a maximum number of steps which should be needed to complete the task.

Abstract: A skin-irritating game machine include a main unit and a plurality of control cables respectively connected to the main unit, each control cable having two metal contact elements adhered to the skin a respective player to form a respective electric loop through which a voltage is outputted from the main unit to the player who loses the game.

Abstract: A technique is disclosed for testing and training health care professionals. Competency tests are stored on machine readable media and transmitted via network connections to remote provider systems, such as workstations or diagnostic systems. A health care professional can take a competency test on a particular topic and input his/her responses at the remote provider system. The health care professional's responses are evaluated, and an assessment of his/her skills displayed at the provider system. The assessment particularly points out those areas, if any, where the health care professional's knowledge is deficient. If the health care professional has any areas which need improvement, a list of relevant courses is also displayed at the provider system. The health care professional may then select a desired course from the user interface. The machine readable media maintains a record of the health care professional's assessment as well as a list of completed courses.

Abstract: A system is disclosed that provides a goal based learning system utilizing a rule based expert training system to provide a cognitive educational experience. The system provides the user with a simulated environment that presents a business opportunity to understand and solve optimally. Mistakes are noted and remedial educational material presented dynamically to build the necessary skills that a user requires for success in the business endeavor. The system utilizes an artificial intelligence engine driving individualized and dynamic feedback with synchronized video and graphics used to simulate real-world environment and interactions. Multiple “correct” answers are integrated into the learning system to allow individualized learning experiences in which navigation through the system is at a pace controlled by the learner.

Abstract: The present invention is a system and method of interactive multimedia teaching and learning, through the use of audiovisual presentations. The invention provides a computer based multimedia presentation which may include pictures, sound, graphics and text to provide a trainee with a presentation regarding the performance of an occupational skill.

Abstract: A method of making a tests, assessments, surveys and lesson plans with images and sound files and posting them on-line for potential users. Questions are input by a test-maker and then the questions are compiled into a test by a host system and posted on-line for potential test-takers. The compiled test may be placed in a directory for access by the test-takers, the directory preferably having a plurality of categories corresponding to different types of tests and the compiled test is placed in the appropriate category. For ease in administration, a just-made test is placed into a temporary category so that it may be later reviewed (by the proprietor of the host system) and placed in the most appropriate category.

Abstract: A tutorial method for teaching the scoring of open-ended questions holistically includes displaying a student response to a scorer and permitting the scorer to access a rubric containing the rules for scoring that response. The scorer can choose a display form from a handwritten form and a typed text form that retains and originally present errors. Following the scorer's having entered a score, a model score is displayed so that a scoring efficacy may be determined. Annotations prepared by expert scorers may be accessed to enhance the learning process. In addition, a running correlation between the model and entered scores is calculated and displayed for the scorer over a tutorial session that includes attempts at scoring different responses. The system includes a processor, a workstation, and software for performing the above-described method.

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

Abstract: Methods are disclosed for distributing digitized electronic representations of representative responses to non-objective assessment tasks and established scores for the responses to readers in order to train the readers to determine scores for responses in accordance with a scoring criteria, to qualify the readers to determine scores for responses in accordance with the scoring criteria, and to monitor how well a reader is determining scores for such responses in accordance with the scoring criteria. In disclosed embodiments, the methods provide such distribution for multiple scorers on a network located at a single site, for multiple scorers on a network remote from a central site; and scoring by individual scorers remote from the central site. Distribution may be accomplished by transferring data from electronic files using diverse techniques such as magnetic storage discs, CD-ROM, cable or high-speed public communications network, in accordance with the needs of the particular job and setting.

Abstract: The invention includes a teaching machine that presents questions to the user who responds with answers. Graded interval recall is accomplished by storing the exact time and date when the user learns a correct answer. The machine determines the presentation mode and review schedule for each unit according to the length of real time that has elapsed since the user learns the material. Precise timing is designed to bridge the threshold between short-term and long-term memory by interrupting default sequencing of material to review items at an exact preset interval from the time the user learned the material.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for analysis involving a first factor and a second factor. The first and second factors are related as expressed by a first relationship. The apparatus comprises a base divided into first, second and third sections, where the second section is positioned between the first and third sections. The first, second and third sections are representative of the first factor, the first relationship, and the second factor respectively. The method of the present invention involves the steps of providing the apparatus and engaging in a dialogue of questions related to both the first and second factors. The apparatus and method of the present invention may be used in a variety of applications, such as biopsychosocial analysis, and analysis of the intellectual capital of a business, for example. The apparatus and method may be used for analysis involving more than two factors and presumes that some relationships exist between the factors.

Abstract: A method and system are provided for quiz question game play. In order to check the correctness of answers to quiz questions or the like over the media and in events, the correctness of answers given by a participant to questions asked by the organizer is checked. This is done by converting answers into a question-related control data word by automatically allocating a confirmation data word verifying the correctness of the answer given by the participant to the organizer.

Abstract: An educational toy for teaching a child a sequence of letters, numbers, colors or other sequences. The toy would be provided with a plurality of segmented body portions, each of the body portions associated with a single indicia. A switch is provided on each of the segmented body portions. When this switch is depressed, an audio output associated with the indicia would be produced. After the child has memorized a series of indicia to produce a learned sequence, a switch associated with a segmented body portion having demarcation indicia would be depressed, allowing the entire sequence to be vocalized in order.

Abstract: Computer implemented training exercises present stimuli to a user and receive responses by the user to the stimuli. The stimuli are specifically selected to challenge and improve a cognitive ability of the user, e.g., the ability to perceive and understand spoken language. As a result, the stimuli cannot be changed or adapted to motivate the user through entertainment. Motivation is therefore provided by periodic reward animations which include persistent plots and characters. Progress indicators represent progress toward reward animations and represent such progression with smooth, entertaining progress animations. Randomly appearing animations and variations in rewards and immediate feedback add to the surprise and curiosity of the user and motivate further correct responses to see further random animations and variations. Progress indicators also represent a relation between the number of steps taking toward completion of a task and a maximum number of steps which should be needed to complete the task.

Abstract: Computer implemented training exercises present stimuli to a user and receive responses by the user to the stimuli. The stimuli are specifically selected to challenge and improve a cognitive ability of the user, e.g., the ability to perceive and understand spoken language. As a result, the stimuli cannot be changed or adapted to motivate the user through entertainment. Motivation is therefore provided by periodic reward animations which include persistent plots and characters. Progress indicators represent progress toward reward animations and represent such progression with smooth, entertaining progress animations. Randomly appearing animations and variations in rewards and immediate feedback add to the surprise and curiosity of the user and motivate further correct responses to see further random animations and variations. Progress indicators also represent a relation between the number of steps taking toward completion of a task and a maximum number of steps which should be needed to complete the task.

Abstract: A tutorial method for teaching the scoring of open-ended questions holistically includes displaying a student response to a scorer and permitting the scorer to access a rubric containing the rules for scoring that response. The scorer can choose a display form from a handwritten form and a typed text form that retains and originally present errors. Following the scorer's having entered a score, a model score is displayed so that a scoring efficacy may be determined. Annotations prepared by expert scorers may be accessed to enhance the learning process. In addition, a running correlation between the model and entered scores is calculated and displayed for the scorer over a tutorial session that includes attempts at scoring different responses. The system includes a processor, a workstation, and software for performing the above-described method.

Abstract: Methods are disclosed for distributing digitized electronic representations of representative responses to non-objective assessment tasks and established scores for the responses to readers in order to train the readers to determine scores for responses in accordance with a scoring criteria, to qualify the readers to determine scores for responses in accordance with the scoring criteria, and to monitor how well a reader is determining scores for such responses in accordance with the scoring criteria. In disclosed embodiments, the methods provide such distribution for multiple scorers on a network located at a single site, for multiple scorers on a network remote from a central site; and scoring by individual scorers remote from the central site. Distribution may be accomplished by transferring data from electronic files using diverse techniques such as magnetic storage discs, CD-ROM, cable or high-speed public communications network, in accordance with the needs of the particular job and setting.

Abstract: An educational toy for teaching a child a sequence of letters, numbers, colors or other sequences. The toy would be provided with a plurality of segmented body portions, each of the body portions associated with a single indicia. A switch is provided on each of the segmented body portions. When this switch is depressed, an audio output associated with the indicia would be produced. After the child has memorized a series of indicia to produce a learned sequence, a switch associated with a segmented body portion having demarcation indicia would be depressed, allowing the entire sequence to be vocalized in order.

Abstract: Educational display boards are in widespread use—from classrooms to boardrooms. A display board is a thin substantially planar material imprinted with graphics and text that often conveys a relationship between elements. The present invention is specifically a design for interactive educational display boards upon which users interact by touching one contact associated with a term corresponding to a question, and one or more terms corresponding to an answer selection. User bodily resistance is sensed by the circuit as user input; to which the interactive display board responds with a variety of audio tunes and tones in relation to these user choices.

Abstract: An evaluation based learning system (EBLS) is provided which is used by authors, teachers, students and education administrators for the development of courses, the teaching of courses, the studying of courses and the administration of information and data relevant to the courses. The EBLS provides an efficient authoring, teaching and learning environment wherein a database of questions and answers are linked to a textbook to facilitate the learning and evaluation process of students studying a textbook.

Abstract: A housing supports a plurality of user depressible buttons including a question and answer button, a repeat or skip button and optionally a category select button. The housing further supports a multisegment liquid crystal display arranged in a linear arrangement. Within the housing, a microprocessor based circuit utilizes an associated memory and supporting apparatus such as display drivers to respond to the user pressing of buttons on the face of the housing to perform a series of question and answer operation. When the user presses the question and answer button, the microprocessor circuit assembles the next question from a stored list of questions and scrolls the question across the liquid crystal display. Thereafter, the circuit waits a predetermined interval for either the next pressing of the question answer button or expiration of a timed interval.

Abstract: Computer implemented training exercises present stimuli to a user and receive responses by the user to the stimuli. The stimuli are specifically selected to challenge and improve a cognitive ability of the user, e.g., the ability to perceive and understand spoken language. As a result, the stimuli cannot be changed or adapted to motivate the user through entertainment. Motivation is therefore provided by periodic reward animations which include persistent plots and characters. Progress indicators represent progress toward reward animations and represent such progression with smooth, entertaining progress animations. Randomly appearing animations and variations in rewards and immediate feedback add to the surprise and curiosity of the user and motivate further correct responses to see further random animations and variations. Progress indicators also represent a relation between the number of steps taking toward completion of a task and a maximum number of steps which should be needed to complete the task.

Abstract: An interactive learning system has an interactive control unit that displays competition or quiz questions in multiple-choice or other format. Students using the system enter answer choices on a wireless keypad. A base station connected to the interactive control unit receives answer choices from and communicates with the wireless keypads. The interactive control unit keeps track of the scores for all users, and scores of different groups of users (i.e., classes).A receiver connected to the interactive control unit receives content for competitions by satellite broadcast. The competitions are then stored for later use. The system can conduct competitions from those that have been stored or broadcast, or from those that can be created by individual teachers. Previously broadcast and stored competitions can be played simultaneously by a plurality of remote locations, in a "live competition" setting.

Abstract: An educational toy for teaching a child a sequence of letters, numbers, colors or other sequences. The toy would be provided with a plurality of segmented body portions, each of the body portions associated with a single indicia. A switch is provided on each of the segmented body portions. When this switch is depressed, an audio output associated with the indicia would be produced. After the child has memorized a series of indicia to produce a learned sequence, a switch associated with a segmented body portion having demarcation indicia would be depressed, allowing the entire sequence to be vocalized in order.

Abstract: A hand held quiz computer and educational device which includes an optical scanner in conjunction with a microprocessor, which scans a portion of preprinted quiz or educational cards that present questions or information, with the correct answers to the questions or verification information on the bottom, which is inputted to the microprocessor and compared with the user's responses.

Abstract: The present invention relates to computer-based technology in assessment particularly for the licensing and certification of professionals such as architects and engineers. For assessment of architects, the system includes tools and methods for item creation, computer programs for computerized item presentation, and programs for automatically scoring test responses by computer.

Abstract: A learning device comprises a receptacle for holding an information bearing card. The information bearing cards include a problem and a coded answer. The receptacle of the learning device includes a decoding display window with a movable writing screen which may be moved to cover or uncover the decoding display window. The user can insert the information bearing cards into the receptacle, write down a response on the writing screen with the display window covered, and compare their response with the correct answer by moving the movable writing screen to reveal the decoded answer through the decoding display window.

Abstract: The invention provides a card for learning purposes, which has at least two holes 7, 8 of essentially the same size. At least three separate sections 9, 10, 11 are printed on the front side 1 of the card. In each case one section 9, 10 is assigned to one of the holes 7, 8. The card also has a rear side 6, which has a picture 5 or graphics printed on it, the picture 5 or the graphics on the rear side 6 of the card being arranged such that at least one of the holes 7, 8 is not an integrated constituent part of the picture 5 or of the graphics on the rear side 6 of the card.

Abstract: The invention includes a teaching machine that presents questions to the user who responds with answers. Graded interval recall is accomplished by storing the exact time and date when the user learns a correct answer. The machine determines the presentation mode and review schedule for each unit according to the length of real time that has elapsed since the user learns the material. Precise timing is designed to bridge the threshold between short-term and long-term memory by interrupting default sequencing of material to review items at an exact preset interval from the time the user learned the material.

Abstract: A remote computer I/O apparatus comprising of a set of position tracked wireless user manipulated bodies and a host adapter station. Input is derived from the real-time position tracking telemetry received from each user manipulated body over a wireless transmitter housed in each body. Location determination is performed on a relative clustering basis using photonic light pulses, on a relative absolute special positioning basis using ultrasonic triangulation between bodies, or on a relative absolute spatial positioning basis between each body and the host adapter. For output each body may store or receive video and audio generated respectively by the controlled computer or by an sound generating device such as a soundcard running on the same. Stored feedback is emitted from each body upon receipt of playback signals transmitted to any selected bodies causing them to display stored video on a local body display or to emit stored audio segments out a local body speaker.

Abstract: User-actuated systems for retrieving and presenting information on a particular subject and/or information employable in a learn while doing mode on the performance of a specified task. The systems include a laser-readable, encoded, data storage device; a player for retrieving data from the storage device; and a screen on which the retrieved information can be displayed. Onboard controls allow the system user to reach the information of concern, to repeat the presentation of that information, and to otherwise navigate through the available choices in a fashion which best meets his or her needs. An optional remote control allows the system user to accomplish the same functions, while being freed from the location of the system module.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a teaching toy that invites a child's interaction using an attractive play figure, for example a stuffed animal, to present more than one instructional modality in mixed formats. The child is presented with a declarative instruction, quizzing, and logical connections are induced in the child's mind via problem solving games, songs, and visual stimuli. Particularly, the present invention teaches and reinforces a child's knowledge of letter names, letter phonetics, colors, numbers, and social manners by use of visual, audial, and kinesthetic involvement of the child. If the inventive is presented in the form of a stuffed animal, the exterior of the animal would have a plurality of indicia that the child could press. The indicia is connected to switching circuitry and those switches activate a logic circuit containing preprogrammed instruction modalities and play methods.

Abstract: The invention concerns computer-assisted education, in which a school curriculum is stored in computer repositories. A learning profile is maintained for every student, which indicates the student's capabilities, preferred learning style, and progress. Based on the profile, an Intelligent Administrator (IA) selects appropriate material for presentation to the student during each learning session. The IA then assesses whether the student has mastered the material. If not, the material is presented in a different way. If repeated different presentations fail to instill mastery, the IA establishes a video conference between the student and a professor.

Abstract: A computer toy for infants that promotes normal speech development by facilitating the infant's experimentation with babbles and other elementary sounds. Additionally, the toy provides an enriched environment for language learning by prompting the infant with a repertoire of verbal sounds including phonemes, syllables, and simple spoken words. The toy includes a microphone input device for detecting vocalizations by an infant and an audiovisual output device for providing feedback to the infant including the immediate playback of the infant's own vocalizations, and a control means for transforming detected vocalizations into instructions for use by the audiovisual output device.

Abstract: A very compact and ergonomical hand-held electronic gaming device is provided having a body including a front housing portion for containing the game's electronic circuitry and to which input keys for the game are mounted, and a rear extension portion extending rearwardly from the front housing portion for securing of a printed game book thereto. The gaming device is designed so that playing the game takes place with the book opened by the player while still secured to the rear extension so that the game body and open book can be held with one hand while using the other free hand to key in input to the game based on printed matter read from the open book. Thus, the game book need not be separated from the game to play the game. Preferably, the game has multiple-choice questions with associated answer choices to be selected by the player. A NEXT key is provided so that the questions can be answered sequentially without having to key in each question number.

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

Abstract: An interactive learning device in a laid open book format for toddlers and preschoolers, having a plurality of advantageous features. The device has keys in the form of raised letters of the alphabet that are depressed to make a voice processor circuit recite the letters. The learning device receives a card that spells out a word, and the speech processor circuit, upon the depressing of the keys that correspond to the letters constituting the word, pronounces the word phonetically, both letter by letter and by the entire word. The device provides numerous feedback mechanisms for reinforcing learning, and is of a portable, compact shape.

Abstract: A method for learning a foreign language by first memorizing conjugations of representative verbs using the human hearing, viewing and feeling senses, and a device for implementing the method, the device providing the feeling memorizing means, the method comprising the step of memorizing the conjugations of the language using the human hearing, viewing and feeling senses, wherein using the feeling sense is effected by having the conjugations symbolized by elements of the device, each having a specifying location and a specifying surface or construction conferring a learner with an associated specifying feeling, such that when the learner sees a scene displayed on a display and hears a sentence associated with that scene, which sentence includes an associated specific conjugation, the learner touches a specific corresponding element symbolizing the associated specific conjugation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for formulating and responding to an inquiry through an interface which is topically organized. The dialogue system interface is comprised of various topical objects wherein each domain object has a set of object values. Selection of a desired object value of a domain object yields a set of potential inquiries, corresponding to the selected value, for selection. A selected inquiry is transmitted to an underlying system for formulation of a response. The formulated response of the underlying system is then transmitted to the user through the dialogue system interface. The dialogue system generates and displays further domain objects, object values, and inquiries that are logically anticipated from the selected inquiry.

Abstract: A card game comprising a plurality of playing cards representing current U.S. political figures. Each playing card has a front surface and a back surface. The front surface displays a picture of a political figure accompanied by his/her name and job title. The back surface contains information about the political figure depicted on the front surface. Each playing card may also include information encoded thereon indicating the political ideology (Liberal, Moderate, Conservative, or the like) of the political figure depicted on the front surface. The encoded information is not immediately decipherable by the casual observer. The playing cards may be integrated into a game system via a looseleaf-type game binder divided into state sections representing the states of the United States. The game binder may include apparatus for revealing the encoded political ideology of each political figure when his/her playing card is placed therein.

Abstract: An interactive system is provided for playing a game, educational or instructional sequence in conjunction with a prerecorded multimedia presentation consisting of at least motion video, sound and accompanying text. The multimedia presentation is partitioned into time segments. The game sequence is also partitioned into task units that are synchronized with the time segments. The time address markers for the beginning and ending of each of the time segments initialize, execute and close each task unit of a programmed game sequence. A corresponding authoring system allows an author to design and implement the time-segmentation of the multimedia presentation and its functional interface with the game sequence. This system can be used for motivating instructional games based on music video, movies, animated cartoons and karaoke that provide the player with the same excitement and challenge of the popular video games.

Abstract: A computerized method is provided for helping students in acquiring and developing the ability to perform an art or skill. This is done in an interactive sequence wherein responses made by a student to inquiries and directives are digitized and compared with hidden idealized parameters and with previous responses, and an evaluation is communicated to the student with encouragements.