Abstract: A method and system for identifying multiple questionnaire pages. An embodiment of a method includes receiving a set of coordinates from a capture device, the set of coordinates indicating shapes made on multiple pages of a questionnaire without the use of a graphical user interface, and mapping each shape to a questionnaire answer on a different page. The method enables a processor to accurately and quickly determine which answers were entered on each questionnaire page attached to the capture device, without relying on the user to do so. Exemplary applications include a field survey and inventory.

Abstract: Computer software and portable memory for an electronic educational toy designed to stimulate the development of a child's mind using audio feedback, the educational toy including an enclosure enclosing a processor, 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: An activity toy includes a base with an upper surface that has recessed regions. Elements are positionable in each recessed region. Positioning an element in each recessed region produces a sound. For instance, the sound may be a combination of sounds when more than one element is position in the recesses or a verse of a song that is associated with an element. In addition, the base may be a toy vehicle, with the recesses defining positions in the vehicle. The sound may depend on the position of the elements in the vehicle. The recesses may include a forward recess near the front of the vehicle and a secondary recess located behind the forward recess, and the sound produced may depend on whether an element is placed in the forward or secondary recess.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to educational toys. In one embodiment, the educational toy includes (a) a figure having an exterior surface, and wherein the figure has a chest, hands and feet, (b) at least one indicium on the chest of the figure, (c) switching circuitry coupled to the indicia, (d) a sound synthesizer, (e) a speaker, (f) a memory, (g) a plurality of preprogrammed instruction modalities in the memory, wherein the plurality of preprogrammed instruction modalities comprises a first preprogrammed instruction modality and a second preprogrammed instruction modality, and (h) a logic circuit having a microprocessor, input terminals that are electrically coupled to the switching circuitry, and output terminals electrically coupled to the sound synthesizer and the speaker. The logic circuit controls the interaction between the switching circuitry and the plurality of preprogrammed instruction modalities.

Abstract: An essay is analyzed automatically by accepting the essay and determining whether each of a predetermined set of features is present or absent in each sentence of the essay. For each sentence in the essay a probability that the sentence is a member of a certain discourse element category is calculated. The probability is based on the determinations of whether each feature in the set of features is present or absent. Furthermore, based on the calculated probabilities, a sentence is chosen as the choice for the discourse element category.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process (1) for the automatic creation and monitoring of a progress plan for a training course comprising at least one training unit by a computer. To increase the efficiency of the training course in a process (1), the invention proposes a process (1) which is characterised by the following steps: definition of first time units by the computer (2), definition of second time units by the computer (4), creation of a progress plan by the computer for the execution of the training course in dependence upon the first time units and the second time units (5), where for each training unit the progress plan specifies a time by which it is to be completed and monitoring by the computer as to whether the corresponding training unit has been completed by the time specified in the progress plan (7).

Abstract: A system and method provides content or material such as educational, informational, or learning content from existing and/or third party content on a network such as the Internet and disseminates the content via the network to a user by correlating the culled content to a user's learning profile. The system preferably pushes the content to the user after correlation of content to the user's learning profile. The user's learning profile includes data regarding a user's learning proclivities and/or preferences of a user's learning profile. The system scans and/or searches the Internet for the existing content. The system stores data about the scanned content particularly with respect to the content itself and relative to the classifications, categories, and/or categorization of learning proclivities and/or preferences. Particularly, the system stores data regarding the elements and/or characteristics of the content with respect to the learning proclivities and/or preferences.

Abstract: An electronic toy appliance for use with interchangeable graspable objects such as blocks or tiles, the toy appliance designed to stimulate the development of a child's mind using audio feedback.

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: An electronic toy designed to stimulate the development of a child's mind using audio feedback, the toy comprising an object having a plurality of sides, the object adapted for lateral movement and rotational manipulation by a child on a substantially horizontal surface so that the child can laterally move the object on the substantially horizontal surface and select different sides of the object to face upwardly.

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: Methods and programs are disclosed for a computer-based teaching method for various subjects, including grammar. The program includes one or more lessons to test a student's skills relative to a particular subject. A database with coded information allows a computer to search the information, such as sentences and word functions provided therein. A guide for identifying the appropriate code for each respective lesson is provided such that as a student progresses through the lessons, the computer searches the database to provide the appropriate information to the student based upon the code of the information and the guide for the respective lesson. Further, the method of coding answers to a test given with the use of a computer program is discussed. Answers given by a student are compared to the correct answers located in a computer database.

Abstract: An interactive apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, the interactive apparatus includes a base unit. The base unit can has a surface and an array of electrical elements under the surface. A removable template is placed on the base unit and is positioned over the surface. The removable template has a movable element that the user can move and a speaker in the apparatus can produce an audio output in response to the movement of the movable element.

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: 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: In a computerized method of and system for learning an information, the information is subdivided into a plurality of portions, and a plurality of sets of questions, each related to a respective one of said portions; a plurality of reviews of the portions of the information are performed by a learner in accordance with a computer program; during each review at least one of said portions called from the storage is displayed as an electronic page on a display, and a content of the electronic page is reviewed; on the display from the storage successively one after the other, questions are presented related to the displayed electronic page; the learner inputs indications whether the learner knows an answer to a corresponding question or the learner does not know the answer at least adequately; in response to the learner's inputting the indication that the learner knows the answer to a corresponding question, by the program the question is promoted to a later review; in response to the learner's inputtin

Abstract: Methods and Systems for training a user regarding controlling a device. Through these methods and systems a user may remotely access a device in order to perform an assignment or task designed to train the user in the operation of the device. The user is able to access the devices through a user computer that is remotely connected to a pod controller. This connection may traverse a Internet or Intra-net, or it may be a direct connection. The pod controller receives device control information sent from the user and translates it so it can be directly fed into the device, thus, providing the user with actual control over the device.

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 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: 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, songs, and moving lights and kinesthetic and reasoning connections are induced in the child's mind via games, songs, and visual stimuli. Particularly, the present invention teaches and reinforces a child's knowledge of geometric shapes, colors, melody and rhythm 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 electrically coupled to switching circuitry and those switches activate a logic circuit containing preprogrammed instruction modalities and play methods.

Abstract: An essay is analyzed automatically by accepting the essay and determining whether each of a predetermined set of features is present or absent in each sentence of the essay. For each sentence in the essay a probability that the sentence is a member of a certain discourse element category is calculated. The probability is based on the determinations of whether each feature in the set of features is present or absent. Furthermore, based on the calculated probabilities, a sentence is chosen as the choice for the discourse element category.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are disclosed that create prediction models. Embodiments of the methods involve various elements such as sampling representative data, detecting statistical faults in the data, inferring missing values in the data set, and eliminating independent variables. Methods and apparatuses are also disclosed that train analysts to create prediction models. Embodiments of these methods involve providing operational component selections to the user, receiving operational and configuration selections, and displaying the result of applying the operational components and selections to representative data.

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: Methods and Systems for training a user regarding controlling a device. Through these methods and systems a user may remotely access a device in order to perform an assignment or task designed to train the user in the operation of the device. The user is able to access the devices through a user computer that is remotely connected to a pod controller. This connection may traverse a Internet or Intra-net, or it may be a direct connection. The pod controller receives device control information sent from the user and translates it so it can be directly fed into the device, thus, providing the user with actual control over the device.

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: 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 computerized curriculum capture, organization and delivery system and method are provided, includes a data gathering mechanism for defining and downloading a quantity of data from a data source; a data retaining mechanism in communication with the data gathering mechanism for storing the quantity of data; a data organizing mechanism in communication with the data retaining mechanism for organizing the quantity of data into a cohesive and interactive lesson; a server in communication with the data retaining mechanism; a data delivery mechanism in communication with the server; and a user receiver with an input mechanism in communication with the server for operation by an end user; so that the data gathering mechanism defines and downloads a quantity of data from the data source pertaining to a selected curriculum topic, whereupon the data organizing mechanism partitions the data into curriculum units and arranges and interlinks the curriculum units into a lesson web having an interactive format; the server

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: 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 networked system for remotely assessing and monitoring psychological conditions. The system includes a server and a remote interface for entering in the server prompts, such as queries and instructions, to be responded to by the individual. The server is preferably a web server and the remote clinician interface is preferably a personal computer connected to the server via the Internet. The system also includes a remotely programmable patient apparatus connected to the server via a communication link, preferably the Internet. The patient apparatus interacts with the individual in accordance with a script received from the server. The server includes a script generator for generating the script from the set of prompts entered through the remote interface. The script is received and executed by the patient apparatus to communicate the prompts to the individual, to receive responses to the prompts, and to transmit the responses from the patient apparatus to the server.

Abstract: A system and method for enabling an established learning institution, such as a first tier college or university, to leverage intellectual capital through licensing and co-developing course content with a Virtual University. The Virtual University develops and markets educational modules presented via a computer communication system. This invention can increase exposure of a professor, course content, and other intellectual capital, to a larger student population separated by time and distance. It can permit multiple learning institutions to participate, with governance and control afforded to each university according to agreed upon guidelines. A Virtual University according to this invention can provide for flexibility in compensation and permit unlimited business arrangements between a university and an institution proffering the educational modules.

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 method and device for determining an appropriate drug dosage, unit conversions and a tutorial device for teaching how to determine a calculated drug dosage and/ unit conversions. The device include a data entry device for entering data; a device for determining a calculated drug dosage in response to the entered data; and a display device for displaying the calculated drug dosage or unit conversion and for displaying the technique used for calculating the appropriate dosage. The data entry device allows the user to enter a proposed solution. The device is provided with stored anticipated and/or unanticipated incorrect answers each having a message associated therewith for display to the user for assisting in answering the problem. The device can also monitor the learning progress of the user and the type of errors being made by the user.

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 display unit of a job aiding apparatus disposed in each of work stations displays a job aid image for showing a job detail in each of the work stations. The worker in each of the work stations performs the job according to the displayed job detail. The job aiding apparatus decides whether a job result falls within a predetermined range or not, and changes the job aid image to a next job aid image only when the job result falls within the predetermined range. The worker can thus perform the job accurately and efficiently.

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 network system for computer aided instruction, includes a main computer including a repository for storing courseware, a network of servers connected to the main computer, a number of local area networks, each of the networks connected to a server, and each including a number of interconnected workstations, a distributed delivery system responsive to a student's request for a course, operable to search the network for a server where the requested course resides, and operable to retrieve the course from the repository, and an authoring system distributed over the workstation, the servers and the main computer, and operable to transfer courses of the courseware from a workstation to the repository, and a course management system distributed over the workstation, the servers and the main computer, and operable to manage course enrollment and to monitor student performance at the servers, and further operable to transfer information concerning course enrollment from the servers to the main computer.

Abstract: A network system for computer aided instruction, comprises a main computer with a repository for storing courseware, a network of servers connected to the main computer, a number of local area networks, each connected to a server, and each comprising a number of interconnected workstations, a distributed delivery system responsive to a student's request for a course, operable to search the network for a server where the requested course resides, and operable to retrieve the course from the repository, and an authoring system distributed over the workstation, the servers and the main computer, and operable to transfer courses from a workstation to the repository, and a course management system distributed over the workstation, the servers and the main computer, and operable to manage course enrollment and to monitor student performance at said servers, and further operable to transfer information concerning course enrollment from said servers to said main computer.

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 housing supports a keypad having a four by three matrix of depressible buttons each baring an appropriate number or symbol in correspondence to the four by three arrangement of a conventional telephone dial pad. The housing further supports a pageable book having a plurality of pivotally secured pages each baring a selected image and corresponding number. A simulated telephone hand unit is secured to the housing by a safety cord and is receivable within a cradle formed in the housing. Each depressible button includes a lighting device and a push button switch in association therewith. The depressible button operates the switch when the button is pressed and the button is illuminated when the light is energized. An electronic circuit within the housing operates the plurality of switches and lights associated with the plurality of buttons in accordance with a stored instruction set.

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: A modular system for diagnostic assessment of psychological conditions which employs a compact microprocessor-based unit such as a video game. In accordance with the invention, the microprocessor-based unit is programmed to produce a video display that prompts a patient or user to interactively operate one or more switches. Information recorded during an interactive diagnostic assessment procedure is analyzed to provide a doctor or other health care professional with information that is helpful to determine whether clinical therapy and/or medication may be required. The disclosed embodiment of the invention relates to diagnostic assessment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Attention Deficit Disorder with a game-like video display being used to obtain a measure of various neuropsychologic indicia of attention.

Abstract: An electronic matching game includes a plurality of primary game pieces each representative of a mother farm animal, a plurality of secondary game pieces each representative of a baby farm animal associated with one of mother farm animals, and a plurality of removable cover members for selectively concealing the identity of each of the secondary game pieces. The apparatus further includes a base assembly having a first receptacle adapted to interchangeably receive one of the primary game pieces, and further having a second receptacle adapted to interchangeably receive one of the secondary game pieces. The base assembly includes an electronic sound generation device for producing a plurality of sounds, each sound being associated with a respective one of the primary and secondary game pieces.