A method for evaluating reading comprehension is provided. The method includes the steps of providing at least one printed passage of text; providing a test subject, the test subject wearing a device for measuring brain frontal lobe usage; requiring the test subject to read the printed passage; providing a question based on the printed passage for the test subject to answer; and determining whether the device measures brain frontal lobe usage. A system for performing the method is also provided.

A set of letter manipulatives and a board on which said letter manipulatives may be placed, where the board comprises an identification module that can identify the letter manipulatives placed on the board and communicate the identification to a computing device.

A computing device is adapted to construct a user-memory data structure for a user based on interactions with the user. The user-memory data structure may comprise a plurality of memory representations for concepts and items important for gaining proficiency in a subject matter. The memory representations are dynamic, and characterize how well each of the concepts and items are retained as a function of time by the user. The computing device uses the user-memory data structure to guide operation of the computing device.

Method, modules and a system formed by connecting the modules for controlling payloads are disclosed. An activation signal is propagated in the system from a module to the modules connected to it. Upon receiving an activation signal, the module (after a pre-set or random delay) activates a payload associated with it, and transmits the activation signal (after another pre-set or random delay) to one or more modules connected to it. The system is initiated by a master module including a user activated switch producing the activation signal. The activation signal can be propagated in the system in one direction from the master to the last module, or carried bi-directionally allowing two way propagation, using a module which revert the direction of the activation signal propagation direction. A module may be individually powered by an internal power source such as a battery, or connected to external power source such as AC power. The system may use remote powering wherein few or all of the modules are powered from the same power source connected to the system in a single point. The power may be carried over dedicated wires or concurrently with the conductors carrying the activation signal. The payload may be a visual or an audible signaling device, and can be integrated within a module or external to it. The payload may be powered by a module or using a dedicated power source, and can involve randomness associated with its activation such as the delay, payload control or payload activation.

A device with a tactile surface is operative for teaching phonics and improving literacy. The device includes a plurality of tiles with each tile comprising a grapheme and a touchable surface. An interface array is configured to receive at least one tile of the plurality of tiles. A control device is in electrical communication with the interface array and a media output and is configured to detect the tiles in the array, identify the tile, and convey the tile identifier to the media output.

Method, modules and a system formed by connecting the modules for controlling payloads are disclosed. An activation signal is propagated in the system from a module to the modules connected to it. Upon receiving an activation signal, the module (after a pre-set or random delay) activates a payload associated with it, and transmits the activation signal (after another pre-set or random delay) to one or more modules connected to it. The system is initiated by a master module including a user activated switch producing the activation signal. The activation signal can be propagated in the system in one direction from the master to the last module, or carried bi-directionally allowing two way propagation, using a module which revert the direction of the activation signal propagation direction. A module may be individually powered by an internal power source such as a battery, or connected to external power source such as AC power. The system may use remote powering wherein few or all of the modules are powered from the same power source connected to the system in a single point. The power may be carried over dedicated wires or concurrently with the conductors carrying the activation signal. The payload may be a visual or an audible signaling device, and can be integrated within a module or external to it. The payload may be powered by a module or using a dedicated power source, and can involve randomness associated with its activation such as the delay, payload control or payload activation.

A multisensory learning system incorporates a plurality of connectable multisensory elements. Each multisensory element may be a piece, a tile, or a block, and includes a surface containing a single character recessed into the surface to form a track. The track may guide a user's finger into the recessed area containing a tactile pattern at a base thereof. The tactile pattern heightens the sensory perception of the character to aid in learning. Each multisensory element is capable of being attached to another multisensory element in order to string characters together. In use, tracing of the tactile pattern of the character triggers the combination of sensations of kinesthetic learning through the motion of tracing and tactile learning through the feel of the tactile pattern in the recessed characters. This may be combined with audiovisual learning by looking at the character(s) and speaking the name.

A multisensory learning system incorporates a plurality of connectable multisensory elements. Each multisensory element may be a piece, a tile, or a block, and includes a surface containing a single character recessed into the surface to form a track. The track may guide a user's finger into the recessed area containing a tactile pattern at a base thereof. The tactile pattern heightens the sensory perception of the character to aid in learning. Each multisensory element is capable of being attached to another multisensory element in order to string characters together. In use, tracing of the tactile pattern of the character triggers the combination of sensations of kinesthetic learning through the motion of tracing and tactile learning through the feel of the tactile pattern in the recessed characters. This may be combined with audiovisual learning by looking at the character(s) and speaking the name.

A toy has one or more LED light sources positioned on the toy so the light source illuminates beyond the toy. A toy to be worn on the human finger comprises a body includes an anchoring portion for receiving or locating a finger or fingers. A finger puppet toy permits for at least one of a reading tool and a light source or an enhancement of other toys or writings. A LED or other light source is operated on the toy to interact with photo-luminescent ink and other inks. A photo-luminescent ink and other inks are pre-printed or included in a decoration on the surface of another item such as a book or other toy. The toy is a reading tool or a light source or an enhancement of other toys or writings. The LED light sources include a black light and may include other LED lights of other colors. The lights are connected to a circuit board and an integrated power source, which are connected to a switch encased on the toy. The mechanism, number and location of LED lights, the circuit board, wiring, power source and switch are further defined based on the shape of the character of the toy.

A set of letter manipulatives and a board on which said letter manipulatives may be placed, where the board comprises an identification module that can identify the letter manipulatives placed on the board and communicate the identification to a computing device.