Abstract: A computer-implemented method according to various aspects of the present disclosure includes receiving, by a computer system, a selection of a programming goal; identifying a skill associated with the goal; and generating, by the computer system, a lesson module for teaching the skill, the lesson module including an ordered list of steps for presentation to a student to teach the skill.

Abstract: A system and method for presenting an online study guide and testing program is presented herein. In particular, the system and method includes a plurality of test questions stored within a database or question bank and a plurality of testing materials corresponding to subject areas, topics, and specific categories. Each of the test questions are coded or otherwise include a study code associated therewith, the study code representing a particular subject area, category or sub-category. Similarly, the study materials are also coded to represent a subject area, category, or sub-category. Accordingly, once a student has completed a test or assignment, the system and method will automatically detect the student's weak areas via wrong answered questions and provide the study code. The student can then obtain study materials relating to that study code in order to advance his or her knowledge in those weak areas.

Abstract: Described is a system for adapting neural networks. The system receives inputs to be learned by a multi-layered spiking neural network. A first mechanism is implemented to adapt weights on the connections via competition among neurons using Hebbian learning. Activity levels of the neurons are stabilized to allow the multi-layered spiking neural network to learn the inputs. A second mechanism is implemented to increase a learning rate of a neuron over time using Hebbian learning. A third mechanism is implemented, wherein newly created neurons, representing new inputs, copy at least one synaptic structure of older neurons in the multi-layered spiking neural network. The mechanisms are used for continuous, online learning of the inputs to the multi-layered spiking neural network. An autonomous system, such as an autonomous vehicle, can use the learned inputs to learn from its environment and perform tasks, such as classification and prediction.

Abstract: A computer readable, non-transitory medium storing a program that causes a computer to execute a process, the process includes: accepting electronic mail information including mail body text information and address information designated by a first user; accepting a request of a second user that designates the electronic mail information; referring to a storage unit that relates address information to human resource information of a person corresponding to the address and stores the address information and the human resource information and extracting human resource information corresponding to address information included in the electronic mail information designated by the second user; and sending the extracted human resource information to a terminal the second user uses together with the mail body text information included in the electronic mail information.

Abstract: A computer-based apparatus including a computer including a processor arranged to select a first video regarding a medical condition; create a second video including segments from the first video; transmit the second video for viewing by qualified medical personnel; receive input from the personnel; based on the input confirm accuracy of a first segment or modify a second segment or delete a third segment; create, from the second video, by at least including the first or second segment or deleting the third segment; transmit the third video for viewing by viewers; receive a respective response from each viewer identifying a respective fourth segment of the third video deemed relevant to the medical condition or enjoyable; create a fourth video including at least a portion of the respective fourth segments; and store the fourth video for inclusion in a video regarding the medical condition.

Abstract: A storage medium to store interactive content may include at least one content unit and interactive content including story map information, the story map information selectively connecting the at least one content unit according to conditions to form a story.

Abstract: A system that incorporates the subject disclosure may include, for example, a device to perform operations including determining, a first playback latency of a streaming media signal at a first media processor and a second playback latency of the same signal at a second media processor. A coordinated time is determined according to a target latency not less than a greater of the first and second playback latencies. A first buffer, when adjusted by a first buffer value, causes an in-content reference to be encountered at the coordinated time during playback by the first media processor. Likewise, a second buffer, when adjusted by a second buffer value, causes the in-content reference to be encountered at the coordinated time during playback by the second media processor. The suitably adjusted buffers allow playback of the streaming media to be synchronized between the first and second media processors. Other embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for encoding and decoding additional information into a digital information in an integral manner. More particularly, the invention relates to a method and device for data protection.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to an Audio-Story Engine that includes a repository of prerecorded audio files that, when played in a certain sequence, with user provided recordings placed throughout, tell a story. To obtain the user provided recordings, the Audio-Story Engine asks the user to make audio recordings of various words or phrases. For example, the Audio-Story Engine may ask the user a series of questions in order to record and store the user's audible responses. Upon completion, the Audio-Story Engine plays back a completed story that incorporates the user's audio recordings by playing an appropriate user recording after playing a prerecorded audio file. This is repeated several times in sequence to form a seamless, customized, audio story. In addition, the Audio-Story Engine may alter the pitch or sound of the user's recorded words to match the pitch of the prerecorded story.

Abstract: An automated training system comprising a database containing audio files and a training script that defines a sequence of the audio files making up a training call. The system includes a training engine that automatically makes a call to an external system via a first communications connection, executes the training script and outputs audio data contained in the audio files to the external system via the first communications connection in accordance with the training script. The system has a response receiver that receives voice data from the external system, the voice data representing the voice responses of a user of the external system to the training call. A method for training an employee using the automated training system is also disclosed.

Abstract: Techniques are disclosed for recognizing user personality in accordance with a speech recognition system. For example, a technique for recognizing a personality trait associated with a user interacting with a speech recognition system includes the following steps/operations. One or more decoded spoken utterances of the user are obtained. The one or more decoded spoken utterances are generated by the speech recognition system. The one or more decoded spoken utterances are analyzed to determine one or more linguistic attributes (morphological and syntactic filters) that are associated with the one or more decoded spoken utterances. The personality trait associated with the user is then determined based on the analyzing step/operation.

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

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

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

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods, systems, and devices for improved audio, video, and data conferencing. The present invention provides a conferencing system comprising a plurality of endpoints communicating data including audio data and control data according to a communication protocol. A local conference endpoint may control or be controlled by a remote conference endpoint. Data comprising control signals may be exchanged between the local endpoint and remote endpoint via various communication protocols. In other embodiments, the present invention provides for improved bridge architecture for controlling functions of conference endpoints including controlling functions of the bridge.

Abstract: An electronic audio playing apparatus with an interactive function is provided. An interactive file stored in a data storage of the electronic audio playing apparatus includes time and sequence data, a main audio, and at least one question audio. The time and sequence data is for controlling the playing time and sequence data of the main audio and the question audios. After each question audio is played, the electronic audio playing apparatus receives answers from the user, determines whether the answers from the user is correct, and outputs a feedback audio according to the determined result.

Abstract: A machine, system and method for user-guided teaching of deictic references and referent objects of deictic references to a conversational system. The machine includes a system bus for communicating data and control signals received from the conversational system to the computer system, a data and control bus for connecting devices and sensors in the machine, a bridge module for connecting the data and control bus to the system bus, respective machine subsystems coupled to the data and control bus, the respective machine subsystems having a respective user interface for receiving a deictic reference from a user, a memory coupled to the system bus for storing deictic references and objects of the deictic references learned by the conversational system and a central processing unit coupled to the system bus for executing the deictic references with respect to the objects of the deictic references learned.

Abstract: A method and system for connecting monitoring equipment is provided. A user is provided with instant voice feedback as they are connecting monitoring equipment. Such feedback can reduce or eliminate confusing hookup instructions and enable the user to use both hands to safely connect the equipment without the distraction of looking at hard-to-read probe markings or connection labels. The use of a voice output reduces or avoids problems of poor visibility and reduced hearing in typical industrial environments, using arc flash safety gear.

Abstract: A method (100) of dynamically assigning a plurality of voice ports and arranging a plurality of menu choice prompting sequences for at least one application includes the step of receiving (102) a plurality of incoming calls and monitoring (104) at least one among a recognition error rate for each menu option and execution path, a success rate for completing a desired transaction and an associated origination number, and monitoring frequently used menu options. In response to the monitoring steps, at least one of the menu choice prompting sequences among the plurality of menu choice prompting sequences can be rearranged (110) and at least one voice port among the plurality of voice ports can be reassigned (114).

Abstract: Improving the frequency with which agents complete training in a call center or other constituent contact environment. Agents working in call centers are typically given periodic training to improve their skills. Training breaks are scheduled at various times throughout the day that can depend on the workload of the call center. However, often times the agents are unable to receive or complete their training during the scheduled training break due to unexpected work loads and other interruptions. The present invention enables monitoring and recording of whether training is received and completed during a training break. If the training was not completed, the training break is stored and rescheduled for a later time. The invention also facilitates completion of missed training breaks by providing spontaneous training breaks during periods of unexpectedly lower workload at the call center.

Abstract: A linear listening and followed-reading language learning system & method, used to linearly adjust the play back speed of the training specimen according to the play back frequency of the training specimen, allowing the user to gradually adapt to the play back speed of the training specimen through progressive training mode, so as to meet the objective of language learning; the system disclosed by this invention comprises a training database, a theme-drawing module, a followed-reading play back module and a speech rate adjustment module; the method flow disclosed by this invention comprises the following steps: first, perform the parameter initialization, then, after picked the training specimen, start the training specimen's play back task, and during this course prompt the user to follow-read and record the followed-reading speech material of the user, and then play back this training specimen and the user's this followed-reading speech material respectively, adjust the speech rate parameter according t

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 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: A recorded technique for teaching a target language to a student having a home language in which each expression in the home language is presented and, under control of the student, time is provided for the student's oral translation thereof. Subsequent to the student's oral translation, a first example student translation of the expressions to the target language is provided and subsequently a second example student's translation of the target language is provided. One ID of the example students is preferably male and the other is preferably female. Then a teacher's translation of the expression into the target language is provided. The sequence is repeated for a series of expressions. To facilitate student comfort and reduce anxiety, the student can provide pauses wherever convenient and in particular the system gives the student time to translate the expression provided from the student's home language into the target language.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for recorded information conveyance and comprehension are provided that include a Virtual Interactive Teaching and Learning (VITAL) Center. The VITAL Center provides an interactive patient education and informed consent process that increases patient comprehension using presentations that offer a baseline education about medical and surgical procedures including the associated risks, benefits and alternatives. The patient's comprehension of the material is confirmed throughout the presentation using summary questions focused on key information. The patient is able to record their own questions or concerns about the procedure while watching the presentation. After the presentation is finished, A healthcare professional reviews the patient questions upon completion of the presentation, and any information the patient did not understand is further explained at this time.

Abstract: An interactive conversational apparatus provides seamless uninterrupted conversational responsiveness to a variety of user inputs utilizing a storage media having a plurality of temporally related data storage tracks containing interactive conversational content. The conversational content and control code information are stored on tracks in a timed sequence for providing interactive pathways through the tracks dependent upon various user responses. A media player facilitates playback of the interactive conversational content. A control code reader reads the control code information and generates track selection information based upon the control codes. User-input buttons or keys receive responses from a user based upon the interactive conversational content.

Abstract: A medical history documentation system and method for recording information relating to at least one of a designated patient's current medical condition, a physical examination, a diagnosis and a treatment plan is shown. The system includes a recording member having a plurality of discrete recording sections formed thereon programmed for recording information relating to the patient. The encoded indicia is communicated by a first person to a second person during a physical examination of the patient by the first person. An input member is used by the second person for recording medical information in the form of predetermined encoded indicia in applicable discrete recording sections of the recording member. A transcriber having a plurality of report section templates is used. Each report section template corresponds to a discrete recording section.

Abstract: A learning aid is provided which allows the user to selectively mute one part of a prerecorded multipart drama and substitute his or her voice for that muted part. A recorded copy of a composite of the unmuted prerecorded portions of the drama, the user's voice, and additional sound effects may thus be created. A voice sensitive microphone allows the period of time for the user's part to be flexibly varied and prerecorded control signals provide visible cues to the user that the part selected is imminent.

Abstract: A voice recording/reproducing apparatus suitable for use in a language laboratory operates with a disk on which are recorded text segments comprising sentences and a table of contents containing text and sentence addresses. Automatic sensing of the division points between sentences in each of the text sections can be performed. Only the end portion of a sentence may be readily reproduced, and the division point following the sentence may be finely adjusted. Desired audio data may be quickly retrieved by rough retrieval operations, in which the time code is advanced or reversed by a large amount, followed by fine retrieval operations, in which the time code is advanced or reversed by a small amount. One of several pronunciation practice modes may be selected. A reduced reproduction speed capability allows a student to hear fine pronunciation of words with an invariant pitch.

Abstract: A method for controlling the reciting time of a language learning device. The language learning device has a recording medium for recording a voice signal thereon, a timer for outputting time information, a motor for transporting the recording medium in the desired direction, and a microcomputer for controlling the entire operation of the language learning device. The microcomputer stops the motor to suspend a reproduction operation until the input of a voice signal recited by the user is completed. If the input of the recited voice signal is completed, the microcomputer drives the motor to resume the reproduction operation. According to the present invention, after a reproduced voice signal from the recording medium is outputted, the reproduction operation is suspended regardless of the length of the reproduced voice signal for a time period during which the user gives a language recitation. Therefore, the user has a sufficient reciting time, resulting in an increase in language learning efficiency.

Abstract: A substantially improved electronically controlled educational toy or game is achieved by providing animated indicia which is directly responsive to the input signals provided by the user. Preferably, the animated indicia comprises a distinctive character which produces animated movements of approval in response to questions being answered correctly, while producing a negative animated reaction to an incorrect answer. By providing this unique animated response in combination with audible and visual indicia, an educational toy and game is attained which creates added excitement and interest for children.

Abstract: The game includes a device for randomly selecting a sequence of musical notes for game playing purposes. Another device enables a player to preview a recognition sequence of a portion of the sequence of musical notes prior to game play. A switch device actuated by the player causes a signal to be generated indicative that the player identified the recognition sequence of notes embedded within sequence of musical notes during game play.

Abstract: An electronic apparatus breaks a stream of recorded sound into discrete segments. The apparatus randomizes the order of the sound segments and will allow the sound segments to be re-ordered to their original order or to some desired order. The apparatus allows re-ordering of the sub-segments of a sound segment to create additional sounds (i.e. playing a sound segment backwards). The apparatus includes a control that will record and playback individual or groups of sound segments. A memory or skills game can be played in which the object is to re-assemble the sound segments to some determined order in a limited or unlimited amount of time. Levels of difficulty can be changed to make the game more challenging. The apparatus allows a player to create silly and entertaining stories by arranging the sound segments in some order and then playing some or all of them back to the player.

Abstract: The present invention is a real-time interactive conversational apparatus which operates by playing to a child a prerecorded conversation stored on a multi-track media such as magnetic tape. The system conversations are programmed according to a decision-tree logic which allows complex conversations to be developed, branching between the various tracks of the media being accomplished without the aid of a microprocessor or any coding in the conversation source signal. The information is stored on each track in a plurality of reproducible information segments, which contain interrogatory messages and associated multiple choice responses, responsive messages, informational messages, and combinations thereof. The responsive messages contained on the tracks are related in real-time and content to particular interrogatory messages, and correspond with multiple choice selectable responses.

Abstract: An electronic learning machine having an input unit for inputting data relating to a specific student. When the data relating to the student is entered by the input unit, a select unit selects the scholastic achievement data related to the student from a first storage unit. A control unit then selects, when so directed, problem information matching the student's scholastic ability from problem information at all difficulty levels stored in a second storage unit and displays the selected problems on the display or on a printing paper. Thus, the student is faced with problems at a difficulty level matching his/her scholastic ability to enhance learning.

Abstract: The present invention is a real-time interactive conversational toy which operates by playing to a child a prerecorded conversation stored on a multi-track media such as magnetic tape. The system conversations are programmed according to a decision-tree logic which allows complex conversations to be developed, branching between the various tracks of the media being accomplished without the aid of a microprocessor or any coding in the conversation source signal. The information is stored on each track in a plurality of reproducible information segments, which contain interrogatory messages and associated multiple choice responses, responsive messages, informational messages, and combinations thereof. The responsive messages contained on the tracks are related in real-time and content to particular interrogatory messages, and correspond with multiple choice selectable responses.

Abstract: A method is provided for conducting an opinion survey in which a question is posed to a person being surveyed and a timing means is started at the end of the question. The timing means is stopped upon commencement of the person's response and the person's response is recorded. The method further includes the step of evaluating the validity of the starting and stopping of the timing means and may further include the step of evaluating and recording the quality of the audio response which stopped the timing means to monitor the validity of the measured response time. An apparatus is also provided for use in survey research. The apparatus has a means for displaying a menu of questions to be asked to the person conducting the survey.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of playing an audio quiz game wherein a player attempts to answer a question after listening to a corresponding audio clip provided on a compact disc. Each track of the compact disc contains one or more sound clips separated by audio cues. The questions and answers relating to specific tracks are provided in a book, or playing cards, or in computer memory, and can be randomly accessed.

Abstract: A voice output device for use in an electronic appliance, including a first member for detecting generation of data concerning starting or completion of operation of the electronic appliance, a memory for storing messages to be verbally transmitted to an operator of the appliance, a second member for selecting, in response to an output signal from the first member, one of the messages, and a third member for verbally transmitting the one of the messages to the operator.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing an interactive video drama employing a personal computer, a voice recognition device, and a programmable videodisc player. A plurality of dramatic scenes are stored on a videodisc and displayed to the user in response to spoken commands. At certain scenes designated as decision points, the next displayed scene is selected based on a probability technique. By storing audiovisual representations of a speaking human being and by selecting scenes for display based on spoken input signals, the apparatus provides the illusion of dialog between a user and prerecorded human characters.

Abstract: A recording has a plurality of segments, each of which is user selectable. The recording may be on any audio delivery medium including a phonograph record or a series of cassette tapes in which each segment is recorded on one band of the record or on one of the series of cassette tapes. Each recorded segment, such as the band on the phonograph record, may be identified by a visual indicium, such as color. The recorded information of at least some of the segments instructs the user to select another segment, with the other segment identified by its visual indicium so the user can select the chosen segment. Pieces may be provided for manipulation in accordance with the interactive recording. A play field may be provided having locations thereon coded with visual indicia corresponding to the visual indicia identifying the recorded segments to reinforce the choices available to the user and to supply feedback or contributing information to the user.

Abstract: An interactive compact disc system (10) having a teaching mode in addition to an entertainment mode is provided for the recovery of a predetermined aural response from predetermined randomly accessed storage on a compact digital disc. The interactive compact disc system (10) includes a mode select switch interface (26) which is coupled to microprocessor (22) by data bus (34) and address bus (32) for selecting the desired operational node. A keyboard (12) which includes a removable graphic overlay, provided for use in the teaching mode, is coupled to keyboard decoder/driver (14). Keyboard decoder/driver (14) generates a unique character code for each of the keyboard switches in keyboard (12). Microprocessor (22) uses that unique character code to generate an address for accessing the track encoder read only memory (24).

Abstract: A programmed conversation recording system presents a caller with a sequence of messages and records caller responses to these messages during respective calling periods. According to this invention, pauses in the caller response are automatically detected and timed and a patience interval is provided which varies in real time during the recording period as a function of the duration of the caller response. The recording period is automatically terminated when the duration of a pause in the caller response exceeds the patience interval. By varying the patience interval in real time during the recording period, the recording system can be programmed to respond properly, even to responses to complex questions.

Abstract: A teaching system utilizing prerecorded tape which is prepared in sectors with a message segment and position indicators in the form of transparent windows which are photoelectrically detected. After a message or question is played, a first window is detected by a first detector and the tape drive motor is deenergized with another window positioned before one of a plurality of other detectors. The operator then attempts to answer or identify the message by making a selection corresponding to one of the plurality of detectors, and if a correct answer is given, a signal is given to the operator. All of the photoelectric detecting devices are on a carrier which is removably mounted to a cassette.

Abstract: An editing system of educational programs for a CAI system recording on a CMT, in parallel, both audio data to be served for learning through student's auditory sense and digital data such as character and graphics information to be served for learning through the student's visual sense. The editing system provides a CAI system having an inexpensive CAI terminal machine with high learning efficiency.

Abstract: An educational device is adapted to receive a programmed tape cassette having voice signals and data signals stored thereon. The programmed tape cassette is organized so that the voice signals include questions as well as other entertaining subject matter, while the data signals include answers to the corresponding questions. The voice signals and data signals are read from the tape cassette and a playback circuit provides a voice playback signal to a speaker, while providing a data playback signal to a microcomputer. The microcomputer is also connected to a keyboard and a display, as well as being connected to drive the tape cassette. In operation, the tape cassette is driven and an audio question is produced by the speaker. At the same time, the correct answer data is stored by the microcomputer. After the audio question has been generated, the tape cassette is stopped and a user is allowed to input answer data via the keyboard.

Abstract: A system comprised of a personal computer controlling a tape recorder and connected to a telephone line providing the capability to deliver programmed instruction over the telephone. The caller listens to instructions and then questions from the tape. He speaks his response after the tape has stopped and then hears the correct answer played from the tape. If the caller's response was correct, he dials a 1 on his telephone and dials a 0 if his answer was incorrect. The next question and answer are then played. If his previous answer was incorrect, then after the next question and answer sequence, the tape is rewound to the question that was answered incorrectly and the same is replayed. The computer may be programmed to return to questions previously answered incorrectly any number of times during the lesson. The system is particularly suited for instruction in foreign languages but other subject matter may also be taught.

Abstract: A teaching system utilizing magnetic tape which is prepared in sectors with a message segment and position indicators in the form of transparent windows which are photoelectrically detected. After a message or question is played, a first window is detected by a first detector and the tape drive motor is de-engergized with another window positioned before one of a plurality of other detectors. The operator then attempts to answer or identify the message by making a selection corresponding to one of the plurality of detectors, and if a correct answer is given, a signal is given to the operator.

Abstract: A recording has a plurality of segments, each of which is user selectable. The recording may be on a phonograph record in which each segment is recorded on one band of the record. Each recorded segment, such as the band on the phonograph record, may be identified by a visual indicium, such as color. The recorded information of at least some of the segments instructs the user to select another segment, with the other segment identified by its visual indicium so the user can select the chosen segment. An interactive visual medium such as a play field may be provided to supply feedback or contributing information to the user.

Abstract: A movie changeover system (20,200,2004,400) capable of providing a real time decision tree movie presentation having a variable movie display content dependent on the viewing audience response to branching choices which occur during the course of the movie. A pair of movie projection devices (22, 24), each having an associated portion of a substantially continuous overall motion picture presentation therefrom, has stored thereon a projectable portion of the overall motion picture presentation content. A changeover shutter mechanism (26) is operatively associated with the pair of projectors (22, 24) for selectively projecting a movie display choice of one of the projectable portions from one of the pair of projectors (22, 24) in a real time continuous movie display presentation with the previous movie display portion in response to a changeover signal.