Operator responsive audio-visual teaching apparatus

Abstract

A programmable, operator responsive, audiovisual teaching apparatus includes a rear screen projector for displaying visual information and an audio reproduction unit providing correlated audiovisual presentations in a sequence corresponding to a branched learning format. A microfiche storage element is provided with a plurality of informational units to be projected toward the screen, each unit including a visual portion, an encoded data portion, and an optical sound track portion. The coded data portion is projected onto a plurality of photodetectors mounted adjacent the screen and the optical sound track is projected onto a movable sound track transducer which provides the audio presentation. A plurality of manually operable switches are provided on the apparatus for selective actuation by the operator in an attempt to select a proper response to the audiovisual presentation. The photodetectors are connected to correlating circuitry which is operable in two modes, an auto step mode, in which the informational unit is presented and then automatically moved to present a sequential programmed informational unit, or a responsive mode, in which the informational unit is presented which requires an operator's response. In the second, responsive mode, upon a correct operator response, a subsequent informational unit is presented relating to a new subject, while, an incorrect response initiates a branching series designed to reinforce or further instruct the operator, after which the initial informational unit may be presented again. In one branching format, the apparatus projects the first of a plurality of possible branch informational units. In a second branch mode, the apparatus may select an appropriate single branch informational unit corresponding to the particular incorrect response.