System and methods for adaptive assessment and awarding users

Abstract

A system is provided which may include (a) a knowledge database with required knowledge data associated with one or more goals of a user, (b) a skill database including required skill data associated with the one or more goals, (c) an AI bot module configured to generate first user environmental data, first user knowledge data; and first user skill data, (d) an environmental assessment module configured to match the first user environmental data to a current goal, (e) a knowledge assessment module, configure to obtain required knowledge data from the knowledge database based on the current goal and generate a first knowledge assessment as an output, (f) a skill assessment module, configured to select first required skill data from the skill database based on the current goal and generate a first skill assessment, and (g) an awarding module, configured to generate an award associated with the current goal

Description

System and Methods for Adaptive Assessment and Awarding UsersFIELD

[0001] The present invention generally relates to improvements in computer technology related to systems and methods for adaptive assessment and providing awards to users.BACKGROUND

[0002] Traditionally, checking whether a person has some desired amount of skills or knowledge is done in an analog manner (e.g., taking an exam). If they do not pass the exam, then they must improve their skills and retake the exam. However, this approach is timeconsuming. It takes time to grade the examinations, and waiting for an examination period can also take time, in exams that do not occur often. Remote learning scenarios appear to solve both timing issues as they can provide for near instantaneous automated assessments and in some cases asynchronous assessments that can be taken any time. However, these remote learning scenarios often provide little to no personalized feedback to those being assessed.

[0003] Additionally, exams are typically designed using human inputs, which can be a time consuming, laborious, and error prone process.

[0004] Furthermore, systems implementing remote learning are usually configured to present information without adapting to the learning style and proclivities of individual student’ s taking the course. As such, current computer systems used for assessment have severe flaws.SUMMARY

[0005] In view of the above, it is an object of the present invention to provide a technological solution to address the long felt need and technological challenges faced in computer based assessment.

[0006] As another advantage, the present invention provides specialized training datasets for Al models, based on the person or user being assessed.

[0007] The present invention provides novel systems, methods, and computer programs products for adaptively assessing people and adaptively assisting people to complete goals.

[0008] In exemplary embodiments, a system comprises (a) a knowledge database including one or more required knowledge data associated with one or more goals of a user; (b) a skill database including required skill data associated with the one or more goals, (c) an Al bot module, configured to generate, based on a first user's input: (i) first user environmental data associated with the first user's environment; (ii) first user knowledge data associated with the first user's knowledge; and (iii) first user skill data associated with the first user's skill; (d) an environmental assessment module configured to match the first user environmental data to a current goal selected from the one or more goals; (e) a knowledge assessment module, configured to: (i) obtain required knowledge data from the knowledge database based on the current goal; and (ii) generate a first knowledge assessment as an output based on the first required knowledge data and the first user knowledge data; (f) a skill assessment module, configured to: (i) select first required skill data from the skill database based on the current goal; and (ii) compare the first required skill data and the first user skill data to generate a first skill assessment as an output; and (g) an awarding module, configured to generate an award associated with the current goal based on at least one of the first skill assessment and the first knowledge assessment.

[0009] In embodiments, the current goal is to fulfil a defined combination of skills and knowledge.

[0010] In embodiments, the one or more goals are input into the system by one or more of: the user, an employer of the user, and an instructor of the user.

[0011] In embodiments, the one or more goals comprises one or more of: a credential, a promotion checklist, a course curriculum, or a degree curriculum.

[0012] In embodiments, the first user input is one or more of: a written text, a sound, a video and / or a drawing containing information about a situation in which the person is involved.

[0013] In embodiments, the written text is an email or email string, and / or where the information about the situation contains professional working environment aspects and / or a private environment of the person and / or a learning environment of the person.

[0014] In embodiments, the one or more goals comprises one or more sub-goals, wherein at least a first sub-goal defines a knowledge state of the person, and at least a second sub-goal defines a skill-level of the person for a respective skill.

[0015] In embodiments, the one or more goals are one or more of the following: Quarterly pre-negotiated goal of an employee, personal goals set by the person in advance, a learning goal set by an educational agency which is to be fulfilled by the student.

[0016] In embodiments, the goal is an academic degree such as a bachelor degree.

[0017] In embodiments, the first required skill data comprises different sub-skills.

[0018] In embodiments, the first user skill comprises one or more sub-skills selected from the group consisting of Coding, Data Analysis, Mechanical Repair, Graphic Design, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-Solving, Time Management, Writing, Music Composition, Painting or Drawing, Negotiation, Leadership, and / or Empathy.

[0019] In embodiments, the award is college or university credit.

[0020] In embodiments, the system further comprises a coaching module configured to generate coaching feedback based on the award, the first knowledge assessment and the first skill assessment.

[0021] In embodiments, the Al bot module is further configured to package the first person's environmental data, the first person's knowledge data, the first person's skill data, and the one or more goals into a personalized training dataset.

[0022] In exemplary embodiments, a method comprises: (a) obtaining, by an Al bot module, one or more goals of a user; (b) obtaining, by the Al bot module, a first user's input; (c) generating, by an Al bot module, based on a first user's input: (i) first user environmental data associated with the first user's environment; (ii) first user knowledge data associated with the first user's knowledge; and (iii) first person's skill data associated with the first user's skill; (d) matching, by an environmental assessment module, first environmental data to a current goal selected from the one or more goals; (e) obtaining, by a knowledge assessment module, first required knowledge data from a knowledge database based on the current goal; (f) generating, by the knowledge assessment module, a first knowledge assessment as an output based on he first required knowledge data and the first user's knowledge data; (g) selecting, by a skill assessment module, a first required skill data from a skill database based on the current goal; (h) generating, by the skill assessment module, a first skill assessment as an output bycomparing the first required skill data and the first user's skill data; and (i) generating, by an awarding module, an award associated with the current goal based on at least one of the first skill assessment and the first knowledge assessment.

[0023] In embodiments, the method is performed by a processor carrying out instructions stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The above and related objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be more fully understood by reference to the following, detailed description of the preferred, albeit illustrative, embodiment of the present invention when taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein:

[0025] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a system in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0026] FIGs. 2A to 2D show a sequence of steps in relation to a working environment where specific e-mail interactions of the person are analyzed and points are awarded in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0027] FIG. 3A-3C show a flow chart for analyzing an interaction and awarding points in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention; and

[0028] FIG. 4 is a flow chart for information retrieval and certification in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] The present invention generally relates to improvements in computer technology related to systems and methods for adaptive assessment and providing awards to users.

[0030] The following description is presented to enable a person of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention, and is provided in the context of particular applications and their requirements. Various modifications to the embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein is applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. In the following description, numerous details are set forth for the purpose of explanation. However, one ofordinary skill in the art will realize that the invention is practiced without the use of these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order not to obscure the description of the invention with unnecessary detail. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0031] In order to provide greater clarity on the scope of the invention, the various embodiments of the present invention are described first before providing specific examples shown in the reference figures.

[0032] In embodiments, a person is assessed by using the help of an artificial knowledge bot (Al bot). Such an artificial Al bot (module) is an artificial intelligence module built in a so-called Al platform. In some embodiments, the bot is in the form of a chatbot which may converse with the person by way of conversation by imitating humans and answer questions based on the support of a strong Al data platform in the background and proposes various suggestions to persons.

[0033] For example, a specific Al bot module is described in the granted patent EP 3,622,394 Bl. As disclosed therein, a Bot module refers to an artificial intelligent (Al) module built on an Al data platform. In some cases, the Bot is in a form of Chatbot, which may talk with user in a way of conversation by imitating humans, answer questions from users based on the support from a strong Al data platform on the background, and propose various suggestions to users according to conversation with users. The Bot module disclosed therein may access an Al data platform to obtain proposing cloud management suggestion after acquiring the profile and running status data of cloud resource. That is to say, the profile and running status data of cloud resource are input information of the Bot module, and the processing suggestion on cloud management is output information of Bot module. As disclosed therein, to acquire more professional cloud management suggestion, a third-party Bot module is used to generate cloud management suggestion.

[0034] The utilization of artificial intelligence for learning environments is described in the US patent application No. 18 / 754,737 from the present inventors. In embodiments, the respective disclosures thereof shall be incorporated herein by reference.

[0035] In embodiments, this system is not only used in the classic educational environment e.g. by educational agencies, such as universities, schools or the like, but is usedin private environments or professional working environments, e.g. by the company at which the person is working.

[0036] In embodiments, the system comprises of a knowledge database and a skill database. In the context of the present invention, knowledge is defined as items related to facts and / or concepts and / or theories. Knowledge can be gained by learning. However, the present invention differentiates this knowledge from skills. Skills are defined as abilities to perform tasks and / or activities effectively and efficiently. Knowledge as well as skills can be broken up into so-called knowledge items (also named as pieces) or respectively skilled items (also named as pieces), which is specified items containing a respective information.

[0037] In embodiments, this system takes two aspects into account, one of which is a goal, i.e. something that is to be achieved by a person, and a person’s input.

[0038] In embodiments, the person’s input can be any information which the person inputs into the system. In embodiments, the person’s input contains information, from which there can be derived the current knowledge level of the person or whether the person has a specific skill.

[0039] In embodiments, the system includes an environmental assessment module. In embodiments, the environmental assessment module, assesses the input of the person and matches it to the goal which is to be achieved by the person. In embodiments, the environmental assessment module also assesses the environment in which the system and the person are presently working and incorporates that into adaptive assessment. In embodiments, the environment is a professional environment, such as a working environment, and the person is an employee employed by a specific company. This environment is a personal environment, and the person is a person who uses the system in a personal environment, such as in a household or in daily life, when not working and when not studying. This environment may additionally or alternatively be an educational environment, where the person is then a student or pupil, who studies a specific branch of study.

[0040] In embodiments, based on the input from the person, the system matches the person with a goal for person to achieve.

[0041] In embodiments, the system includes an awarding module. In embodiments, the awarding module determines, based on a skill assessment and a knowledge assessment, whether the goal, which is to be achieved by the person, is fulfilled or not. In embodiments, these goals include quarterly goals negotiated with the boss of a respective employee, goalswhich are personally set in advance when the system is used for awarding personal goals, or these goals is educational goals, such as passing a specific exam related to the course material of a course that is being studied, or also passing a respective educational degree, such as a bachelor or master degree, to name a few.

[0042] In embodiments, the award give by the award module is given as points. Nonlimiting examples are the ECTS points at a university. ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) points are a standard method used across Europe to measure and compare the workload and learning outcomes of students in higher education. The ECTS is designed to make it easier for students to study in different countries and transfer credits between institutions. 1 ECTS point is equivalent to about 25 to 30 hours of student work. This includes lectures, practical work, seminars, private study, and exams. A full academic year typically involves about 60 ECTS credits, meaning around 1,500 to 1,800 hours of total study time. The ECTS credits reflect the amount of work required to complete a course. For example, a bachelor's degree might require 180 to 240 ECTS (which usually takes 3 to 4 years to complete), and a master's degree might require an additional 60 to 120 ECTS. These credits are transferable between universities across Europe, provided the institutions have agreements in place. While ECTS primarily deals with workload, it is often paired with the European grading scale, making it easier for universities to recognize grades from other institutions. While ECTS is used in the context of this application, it will be understood that the methods and techniques described herein are applicable to credits at other universities and other university systems.

[0043] In embodiments, other point systems are used. For example, the U.S. uses “credit hours” to measure the amount of time a student spends in class or on coursework; the UK uses the CATS system, particularly in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. India has adopted the CBCS, where students are given flexibility in choosing courses across various disciplines.

[0044] In embodiments, one or both of the person’s knowledge and as the skill, are assessed. In embodiments, this is done with the help of an Al bot module. In embodiments, the Al bot module is a self-contained component or part of an Al system designed to perform specific tasks or functions within a chatbot or automated system. These modules are responsible for handling different aspects of the bot' s operation, such as processing natural language, generating responses, managing conversations, or interacting with externaldatabases. In embodiments, each module can focus on a particular area, such as understanding person input (Natural Language Understanding, NLU), managing dialogue flow, or providing responses (Natural Language Generation, NLG).

[0045] In embodiments, from the input information in the knowledge assessment module, with the help of the Al bot module, there are derived pieces of knowledge (also referred as knowledge items). From these pieces of knowledge, it is checked whether the respective knowledge piece is correct.

[0046] In embodiments, during the assessment or at the end of the assessment, the system generates output data in the form of a list, which contains information about a quantity of correct knowledge pieces and / or a quantity of incorrect knowledge pieces. In embodiments, based on this data, the system determines whether the person's knowledge is complete. In embodiments, the system checks whether a predetermined amount of correct pieces was provided by the person.

[0047] In embodiments, a knowledge database may contain data of a standardized course book, which may contain several chunks of information. However, this knowledge data is not limited to contain information of one or more standardized course books. In embodiments, any knowledge data which shall be assessed can be contained in this knowledge database.

[0048] In embodiments, the data in this knowledge database is input into the system in advance so that the system works with the knowledge data contained in this input knowledge database. In embodiments, the knowledge database is updated dynamically while the person is completing the goal. In embodiments, the system may also have access to the World Wide Web and may use this, for example, when this system is being used in the personal environment, as a knowledge database.

[0049] In embodiments, the knowledge assessment module may execute a respective matching where the information input by the person is matched to a respective piece of knowledge. In embodiments, the matching generates a list. In embodiments, this list may also be an output or is visualized on a screen, so that it may later be seen not only whether the award is given, so that it may also be seen which knowledge pieces were correct, which were incorrect, and how many knowledge pieces were known by the person.

[0050] In embodiments, it is thus assessed with the knowledge assessment module whether the person's knowledge is complete. In embodiments, completeness is a predeterminedcompleteness which is set in advance by the operator of the system or, e.g. when the system is used in an educational environment by a university. In embodiments, when the system is used in a working environment, this completeness might be predetermined by the boss or the company guidelines. In embodiments, it is, not necessary that all of the knowledge in the knowledge database is known, but there must be at least a certain percentage of the knowledge which is shown / proven to be known by the person.

[0051] In embodiments, further to the knowledge assessment, there is executed in a skill assessment module via the Al bot module whether the person has a respective skill.

[0052] In the sense of the present invention, a module is a self-contained, independent unit of software, that performs a specific function within a larger system. Modules are designed to be reusable and interchangeable, often providing specific capabilities or services, such as handling data input, processing, or interacting with other parts of the system. They can be combined or integrated with other modules to build complex applications or systems, enabling easier maintenance, scalability, and a modular design. Each described module can also be combined in one common module.

[0053] In embodiments, the system includes a skill assessment module. In embodiments, the skill assessment is performed by the skill assessment module. In embodiments, the skill assessment, is done based on the input of the person. In embodiments, the person’s input is matched to data contained in a skill database. In embodiments, the skill database contains predetermined skills. In embodiments, the results of the skill assessment may be output or visualized on a screen. In embodiments, the skill assessment output is in the form of a data list where respective input from the person is matched to a respective skill. For example, the data list can show that the person has advanced problem solving skills.

[0054] In embodiments, the skills may include sub-skills. In embodiments, the skills or subskills include, to name a few examples:Technical Skills such as Coding (e.g. writing computer programs in languages like Python, Java, or C++), Data Analysis (e.g. interpreting data sets using tools like Excel, R, or SQLM), Mechanical Repair (e.g. fixing engines or other machinery), Graphic Design (e.g. creating visuals using software like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator); Soft skills such as communication (e.g. effectively conveying ideas through speaking or writing), teamwork (collaborating with others to achieve common goals), problem-solving (e.g. analyzing situations to find workable solutions), time management (e.g. organizing tasks to efficiently manage time and meet deadlines);Creative skills such as writing (e.g. crafting stories, reports, or essays), music composition (e.g. creating original music or playing an instrument), painting or drawing (e.g. producing visual art through various mediums);Interpersonal skills such as negotiation (e.g. reaching agreements or compromises between parties), leadership (e.g. motivating and managing teams to achieve objectives), empathy (understanding and sharing the feelings of others).

[0055] In embodiments, the skills can have a respective skill level which is assigned in a low, medium or advanced skill or any other number of steps from the lowest to the highest proficiency. In embodiments, the system checks whether the skills of the persons are complete in accordance with the person’s goal. In embodiments, the skills required to complete a goal are predetermined. In embodiments, the required skills for a goal are dynamically updated.

[0056] In embodiments, the system includes an awarding module. In embodiments, the awarding module, determines based on the skill assessment that is executed by the skill assessment module, and the knowledge assessment that is executed by the knowledge assessment module, whether the goal which is to be achieved by the person is fulfilled or not. In embodiments, the award module determined based on only one of the skill assessment or the knowledge assessment whether the goal is completed. In embodiments, the award module determines based on a plurality of skill assessments and knowledge assessments whether the goal has been achieved.

[0057] In embodiments, with this system, it is possible to award a user during usual activities (usual environment) of said user wherein he interacts with a system such as a personal computer, a mobile phone or the like. A usual environment of a user, in this context, refers to a familiar or routine setting, where a person typically engages in daily activities other than formal studying or learning at educational institutions such as universities. Examples of such environments include home (e.g. a personal space where the user relaxes, carries out household tasks, or engages in leisure activities); workplace (e.g. a professional setting where the user performs job-related duties); social settings (e.g. locations like cafes, restaurants, or community centers, where the user interacts socially rather than in an academic capacity); public spaces (e.g. parks, libraries, or public transportation areas used for commuting or recreation). Theseenvironments are part of the user's daily life, yet they aren't primarily focused on formal education or academic activities.

[0058] In embodiments, the information gathered throughout the user’s daily life or during the time spent at their working environment is used in particular to assess predetermined goals, and whether they are fulfilled or not. In embodiments, the information gathered throughout the person’s daily life or during the time spent at their working environment is used to generate a personalized training dataset for training machine learning models.

[0059] In embodiments, a person can be awarded academic points that pay toward an educational degree e.g. a bachelor degree, for example, from a university, while they are working. In this context, the knowledge and skill databases include information contained in the curriculum of the university or the educational agency. The the user accesses an embodiment of the system while they work in an email program or any other program run on a business computer. By merging the interaction of the person, in this case the employee, with the curriculum in an automatic way, the person after proving their knowledge or specific skill, is then awarded without having to attend a specific learning environment necessary.

[0060] In embodiments, the information input in the knowledge database and also the information input in the skill database are from a different provider or agency, i.e., different from the provider or company setting the working environment of the user.

[0061] In embodiments, the goal that is to be fulfilled is, for example, a predetermined combination of skills with required skill levels and level of knowledge. For example, a goal is set where, for example, the person needs to display four different skills, and for each of those skills a required level such as low, medium, advanced or high is preset and it is further matched to the skill levels according to the information input by the user, which shows the respective skill level of each skill.

[0062] In embodiments, the required knowledge to complete a goal is separated in different pieces or items and it is necessary to prove a predetermined amount of knowledge. In embodiments, the required knowledge does not include all the knowledge in the dataset. For example, in the data set, there are, ten pieces of knowledge which are facts, concepts and / or theories and at least three of them must be reproducibly known by the user to complete the goal.

[0063] In embodiments, the input is a written continuous text, a sound (e.g. incl. verbal communication from the person), a video (e.g. incl video of the user) , and / or a drawing. Inembodiments, the respective input may also be a combination of any of the aforementioned information, text, sound, video and or drawing. In embodiments, this information may contain information about the situation in which the person is involved.

[0064] In embodiments, the written input is a continuous text, and is an e-mail or an e-mail string. In embodiments, the written text that is written in a text editor such as MS Word. In embodiments, the input is MS PowerPoint.

[0065] However, the assessment environment is a professional working environment situation, a private environment or a learning environment. In embodiments, the learning environment refers to the physical, virtual, or social setting in which education and learning occur e.g. at the university. In embodiments, a learning environment is formal settings like classrooms, library, or lab.

[0066] In embodiments, the input from the person is broken down in specific pieces (or items) and these pieces are then matched as to whether required knowledge items and or skill items which prove that the person has displayed or proven the goal are fulfilled. In embodiments, the input is broken down into, knowledge and skill components.

[0067] In embodiments, a goal is constituted by sub-goals which are to be achieved by the person in order to be successfully awarded by the awarding module. In embodiments, the goal includes one or more sub goals, each of which includes one or more required skills or pieces of knowledge. In embodiments, a first sub-goal may define a knowledge state of the user and, , a second sub-goal may define the skill level of the user of the respective skill.

[0068] Examples for such goals can be the following. A quarterly preset goal of an employee, personal goals set by a user in advance, for example, in a private environment or predetermined learning goals set by an educational agency such as a university, which are then to be fulfilled by the user which in this case, is the student.

[0069] Further examples of such goals are the following, which can be set also in combination:Sales target goal for a salesperson: A specific number of units or revenue that is to be reached within a quarter or year.Fitness goal set by the person: For example, running 5 miles a day or losing a specific amount of weight in a set time frame.Project deadline goal for a team: Completing a project by a particular date with specific deliverables.Professional development goal: For example, completing a certification or attending a certain number of workshops or training sessions within a year.Customer satisfaction goal set by a company: Achieving a customer satisfaction score of 90% or higher in quarterly surveys.Learning objectives in a training program: For example, mastering a specific skill set (e.g., coding in Python) within a defined period.Volunteer or community service goal: Contributing a specific number of hours to community service by the end of the year.Milestone goal in a product development cycle: Reaching a working prototype phase by the end of a quarter.Educational goals are typically firmly set in the course outline and their main parameters are the same for all students enrolled. These goals set can be augmented with particular requests and goals sent by the student at some of the stages of the educational journey.

[0070] In embodiments, in a working environment, sub-goals of the week or day can be goals. In embodiments, the sub-goals can be taken from a ticketing system used in the user's employee company. In embodiments, quarterly goals can be taken as reference from the KPI and OKR tracking system. In embodiments, the goals are derived from the input (e.g. email or email string), which may also be a video record, e.g. a Zoom conference in a company or with other students.

[0071] In embodiments, a goal is set by an educational agency, is an academic degree such as a bachelor degree. In that case, the goals of the degree could be broken down to the educational goals of specific courses that the student is going through, narrowing down the list of the skills that the student shall concentrate on.

[0072] In embodiments, the skill level is set up by combining different sub-skill levels, each for a respective specific skill, to one overall skill level of a person. Examples of such skills were given previously.

[0073] In embodiments, the knowledge state is set up by a plurality of specific fact concepts and / or theory items. In embodiments, the knowledge includes scientific facts, concepts, theory items, working environmental facts, concepts and theory items or personal environmental concepts and theory items. In embodiments, these respective knowledge pieces may then be fed into the knowledge database that is then used to determine whether the knowledge is complete or not.

[0074] In embodiments, the system may further include a coaching module. In embodiments, the coahing module provides feedback to the person based on one or more of the person’s input, the knowledge assessment, the skill assessment, and the award assessment. Sometimes, it happens that the skill assessment module assesses that the user's skills are not yet complete. Alternatively or additionally, the knowledge assessment module may assess that the user's knowledge is not yet complete or incomplete. In embodiments, the system may provide a list of items of knowledge which are not yet complete or skills which are not at a high enough skill level. In embodiments, the coaching module provides feedback to the person based on one or more of the information in the list.

[0075] In embodiments, depending on this information, the coaching module executes block-based coaching with the student based on the data in the database and thus coaches the student to fulfill the respective requirements and goals. In embodiments, if it is then later determined by the coaching module that the respective item or items are now completed, the coaching module instructs the user to update the input to the system or make a new input and further, the coaching module instructs the knowledge execution assessment and skill assessment to again examine the input so the awarding module can determine whether the goal which is to be achieved by the user is now fulfilled or not.

[0076] In embodiments, the system includes a dialogue module. In embodiments, the dialogue module contains an input and output interface to exchange respective information between the person and the system. In embodiments, the input is provided via one or more of a keyboard, a video camera, a microphone, or a combination thereof. In embodiments, the output is provided by one or more of a sound signal or visual signal displayed on a display.

[0077] It is further an advantage that if such an assessment in the system, in which the knowledge assessment module, the skill assessment module and or the awarding module works, is started, the user is informed respectively, for example, by a pop-up screen on a displayor through a sound signal. He can then actively input his consent by clicking the respective button or not.

[0078] For example, if the user drafts an e-mail, the environmental assessment module assesses that this content is used for the respective assessment and, based on this content of the email, an award is given or not. So based on this content, the respective user can collect some points, such as ECTS points. The user must with this further function, actively agree to the data processing with the help of the Al bot module.

[0079] According to a further aspect of the invention, there is also provided a method for awarding a user, the method comprising the steps of an environmental assessment step, a knowledge assessment step, a skill assessment step and an awarding step. In embodiments, these method steps may have the same respective functionality as the environmental assessment module, the aforementioned knowledge assessment module or the aforementioned skill assessment module. Therefore, a further description of the steps is left out.

[0080] The method may also contain a further step, for example, a dialogue execution step using the coaching module. In embodiments, the method many include any of the aforementioned aspects of the system.

[0081] A further aspect of the invention is a computer-readable medium containing instructions for carrying out the inventive method.

[0082] In embodiments, a module in the following sense is a building block of software system which represents a functionality closed unit and provides a specific service. However, in embodiments, any of the later known modules is combined to have some or all of the aforementioned modules combined in one higher level module. In embodiments, any of these modules may have further functionality. In embodiments, a module is a self-contained, independent unit of software that performs a specific function within a larger system. Modules are designed to be reusable and interchangeable, often providing specific capabilities or services, such as handling data input, processing, or interacting with other parts of the system. They can be combined or integrated with other modules to build complex applications or systems, enabling easier maintenance, scalability, and modular design. In embodiments, each described module can be also combined in one common module.

[0083] In embodiments, the Al bot module is a self-contained component or part of an Al system designed to perform specific tasks or functions within a chatbot or automated system. These modules are responsible for handling different aspects of the bot' s operation,such as processing natural language, generating responses, managing conversations, or interacting with external databases. Each module can focus on a particular area, such as understanding user input (Natural Language Understanding, NLU), managing dialogue flow, or providing responses (Natural Language Generation, NLG).

[0084] Non-limiting examples for skills or subskills which make up the skills of the user are the following:Technical skills such as coding (e.g. writing computer programs in languages like Python, Java, or C++), data analysis (e.g. interpreting data sets using tools like Excel, R, or SQLM), mechanical repair (e.g. fixing engines or other machinery), graphic design (e.g. creating visuals using software like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator);Soft skills such as communication (e.g. effectively conveying ideas through speaking or writing), teamwork (collaborating with others to achieve common goals), problem-solving (e.g. analyzing situations to find workable solutions), time management (e.g. organizing tasks to efficiently manage time and meet deadlines);Creative skills such as writing (e.g. creating stories, reports, or essays), music composition (e.g. creating original music or playing an instrument), painting or drawing (e.g. producing visual art through various mediums); and Interpersonal skills such as negotiation (e.g. reaching agreements or compromises between parties), leadership (e.g. motivating and managing teams to achieve objectives), empathy (Understanding and sharing the feelings of others).

[0085] Examples of knowledge are the following:Factual knowledge: knowing specific facts, such as the capital of France is Paris or that water boils at 100°C under atmospheric pressure, to give a few examples; Procedural knowledge: understanding how to create a managed cloud environment for a new project, how to log a client call in the corporate CRM or solve a math problem, to give a few examples;Conceptual knowledge: grasping broader principles or ideas, such as the concept of gravity, democracy, or the theory of evolution, to give a few examples;Experiential knowledge: gained through personal experience, like knowing how it feels to swim in the ocean or understanding workplace dynamics from years of job experience, to give a few examples;Scientific knowledge: knowledge derived from scientific research, such as the understanding of cell biology, climate change, or the laws of physics, to give a few examples;Cultural knowledge: awareness of customs, traditions, and social norms, such as how to greet someone in different countries or understanding holiday practices, to give a few examples;Tacit knowledge: unspoken, intuitive knowledge that is hard to formalize, such as a craftsperson’ s skill or an experienced manager’ s ability to handle workplace conflicts, to give a few examples;Historical knowledge: information about past events, such as the causes of World War II or the history of the Roman Empire, to give a few examples; Philosophical knowledge: insights into fundamental questions about existence, morality, or human nature, like understanding the principles of ethics or the philosophy of mind, to give a few examples; andTechnical knowledge: specialized understanding of specific systems or tools, like knowledge of computer programming, machine learning algorithms, or electrical engineering, to give a few examples.

[0086] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, a system for awarding persons is provided. In embodiments, the system comprises one or more of the following: a skill database 1, a knowledge database 3, a dialogue module 15, an Al bot module 18, an environment assessment module 13, a knowledge assessment module 7, a skill assessment module 5, an awarding module 9, and a coaching module 14. In embodiments the system interacts with one or more persons 11 via a computing environment 17.

[0087] In embodiments, the system contains the skill database 1 and the knowledge database 3. In embodiments, in the knowledge database 3, there is saved data concerning facts,concepts and / or theories. In embodiments, this data is input to the system via an interface and thus stored in the knowledge database. In embodiments, this data is structured of relevant items, chunks or excerpts.

[0088] In the case that the system is for an educational training, the data is provided by an educational agency such as a university and is the content of course books defined as necessary reading for a particular area of study. In embodiments, the knowledge data is not limited to course book data but is any data concerning facts, concepts, and / or theories.

[0089] In embodiments, the knowledge database 1 is a database which temporarily stores this data, and as knowledge data, the data from the World Wide Web or a specific content of the World Wide Web is used.

[0090] In embodiments, the skill database 3 stores skills that are to be assessed by the system. In embodiments, the skills and the knowledge are assessed by the system. In embodiments, skills are abilities to perform tasks and / or activities effectively and efficiently. Skills are often also referred as competencies. In embodiments, skills input into the database may depend on the actual award which is later awarded.

[0091] If the award is a university degree of points leading to a university degree, these skills may be one or more of the following - technical skills, soft skills or creative skills or also interpersonal skills. An example of such a technical skill is a negotiation skill, an example of which is reaching agreement on compromises between parties (which is explained in the following example in figures a to d). These skills may depend on the respective area that the person wishes to study (may also be referred as to “study”).

[0092] In embodiments, the skills assessed by the system include skills required for MBA in logistics, as shown in in FIGs. 2A-2D.

[0093] In embodiments, the skills may also be skills which are preset by the company at which the user works as employee or are skills which are preset by the boss of the user. In embodiments, skills may also be set by the person himself.

[0094] In embodiments, having the skill database and the knowledge database, the Al bot module 18 uses this data to assess, based on input from the person 11, the completeness of the user's knowledge, the completeness of the user's skills, and, depending on the outcome, awards a respective award, for example in the form of points. In embodiments, the award module awards points with direction from the Al module.

[0095] In embodiments, the points are ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) points. ECTS are a standard method used across Europe to measure and compare the workload and learning outcomes of students in higher education. The ECTS is designed to make it easier for students to study in different countries and transfer credits between institutions. 1 ECTS point is equivalent to about 25 to 30 hours of student work. This includes lectures, practical work, seminars, private study, and exams. A full academic year typically involves about 60 ECTS credits, meaning around 1,500 to 1,800 hours of total study time. The ECTS credits reflect the amount of work required to complete a course. For example, a bachelor's degree might require 180 to 240 ECTS (which usually takes 3 to 4 years to complete), and a master's degree might require an additional 60 to 120 ECTS. These credits are transferable between universities across Europe, provided the institutions have agreements in place. While ECTS primarily deals with workload, it is often paired with the European grading scale, making it easier for universities to recognize grades from other institutions.

[0096] In embodiments, other point systems are used. The U.S. uses "credit hours" to measure the amount of time a student spends in class or on coursework. The UK uses the CATS system, particularly in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. India has adopted the CBCS, where students are given flexibility in choosing courses across various disciplines.

[0097] In embodiments, the skill assessment is executed in the skill assessment module 5, the knowledge assessment is executed in the knowledge assessment module 7. In embodiments, in the respective determination in these modules, it is determined whether the knowledge is sufficiently complete or the skills are sufficiently complete. Thereafter in the awarding module 9, it is decided whether an award is granted to the user 11 or not.

[0098] In FIG. 1, the user 11 is shown on the left-hand side. The person inputs into a computer 17, an input. In embodiments, the input is provided to the environmental assessment module 13. In embodiments, this input is used to be assessed in view of the goals which are to be achieved by the user 11. For example, the goal is to fulfill a predetermined combination of skills with a required skill level and knowledge in a required amount.

[0099] Further examples of such goals include the following, which can be set also in combination:

[0100] Sales target goal for a salesperson: a specific number of units to be sold or revenue to be reached within a quarter or year;

[0101] Fitness goal set by the user: for example, running 5 miles a day or losing a specific amount of weight in a set time frame;

[0102] Project deadline goal for a team: completing a project by a particular date with specific deliverables;

[0103] Professional development goal: for example, completing a certification or attending a certain number of workshops or training sessions within a year;

[0104] Customer satisfaction goal set by a company: achieving a customer satisfaction score of 90% or higher in quarterly surveys;

[0105] Learning objective in a training program: for example, mastering a specific skill set (e.g., coding in Python) within a defined period;

[0106] Volunteer or community service goal: contributing a specific number of hours to community service by the end of the year;

[0107] Milestone goal in a product development cycle: reaching a working prototype phase by the end of a quarter; and

[0108] Health and wellness goal set by a healthcare provider: for example, reducing cholesterol levels within a specified range within six months.

[0109] Any of the aforementioned goals is a result of a specific combination of skills with a required skill level and knowledge in a required amount.

[0110] In embodiments, the user 11 input is a written continuous text, a sound, a video and or drawings. In the following example, illustrated in FIGs. 2A to C, the input is an e-mail of an employee.

[0111] In embodiments, based on this input, it can be derived, for example, with the help of the Al bot module 18, a respective data set which is a list where the respective parts or chunks of the information are matched to a respective skill and or respective provided knowledge. In embodiments, each piece of input information can have both a knowledge item and a skill item. Then, after this matching, the knowledge assessment module 7 assesses the knowledge and the skill assessment module 5 assesses the skill of the person based on the respective input.

[0112] In embodiments, the knowledge assessment module may check whether the respective knowledge piece is correct or not. This is done based on the information containedin the knowledge data base 3. In embodiments, a vector search and embedding’s is used to search for information in the knowledge database 3.

[0113] Vector search and embedding’s are concepts used in machine learning and information retrieval, particularly in applications involving large datasets, such as searching through documents, images, or other content based on similarity.

[0114] Embedding’s are numerical representations of data (such as text, images, or other media) in a continuous, dense vector space. The key idea is to transform data into vectors (lists of numbers) where similar items (e.g., words, sentences, or images) are represented by vectors that are close to each other in this vector space. These embedding’s are often generated using machine learning models like neural networks.

[0115] For example in natural language processing, a word or sentence can be converted into a vector of numbers, where words with similar meanings e.g. "king" and "queen" will have vectors that are close to each other in the vector space.

[0116] Vector search is a method of retrieving data by searching within this vector space. Instead of searching for exact matches (like keyword-based search), vector search finds items that are similar to a query based on their respective embedding’ s. This is especially useful for finding related content in a more nuanced way than traditional searches.

[0117] For example in a document search system, if you input a sentence, a vector search will return documents with similar meaning, even if they don’t contain the exact words from your query.

[0118] In embodiments, vector search and embeddings are used together for searching one or more databases in the system. In embodiments, vector search and embeddings are used together as follows: first, data (such as text, images, etc.) is converted into embedding’s (vectors) using machine learning models. Then, when a person performs a search or query, the system converts the query into an embedding as well. The vector search process finds the closest matching vectors (similar data) in the dataset, and returns the most relevant results based on similarity.

[0119] Example applications are the following: recommendation systems: suggesting products or content similar to what the person has liked or viewed. Semantic search: finding documents or information based on meaning rather than keywords. Image search: retrieving visually similar images based on an input image.

[0120] In view of university information, some or all parts of a course book can be incorporated in a foundational model with long text contents windows and the foundational model may decide what is the most important information. Once the most relevant excerpts or expert-vetted content is extracted, it is compared against the knowledge input by the person, and recognizes if the person input is correct.

[0121] In embodiments, the Al module includes a foundational model. In embodiments, a foundational model refers to a large, pre-trained machine learning model that serves as the base, or foundation for a wide range of downstream tasks. These models are typically trained with massive datasets using unsupervised or self-supervised learning and can be fine-tuned or adapted for specific applications with smaller, task-specific datasets.

[0122] In embodiments, foundational models used in the system posses one or more of the following key characteristics:Scale: they are usually large models with billions of parameters, capable of handling complex data types such as text, images, or even multimodal data (a combination of different types of data);Pre-training: foundational models are first trained on vast, diverse datasets without specific task labels. For example, language models like GPT are trained using diverse text corpora from the internet;Transferability: once trained, these models can be adapted or fine-tuned for specific tasks, such as language translation, image classification, summarization, or question-answering , without needing to start the training process from scratch; andVersatility: a foundational model can support many different applications across domains, such as natural language processing (NLP), computer vision, and even robotics.

[0123] In embodiments, the knowledge assessment module 7 is further configured to determine whether the knowledge demonstrated is complete. In embodiments, this is done by listing the provided knowledge and deciding whether the amount of knowledge summarized at the specific point is enough or not.

[0124] In embodiments, the skill assessment module 5 works in a similar way, taking the user's input, and matching the skills contained in the skill database 1 with the input and evaluates whether a part of the input corresponds to a respective skill.

[0125] In embodiments, there may then be a list provided in which the respective skills corresponding to a part of the input are listed and it is then checked whether those skills are strong enough to be defined as complete. In embodiments, for each skill based on a respective model, there is a skill level provided.

[0126] In embodiments, at the end, there is in the awarding module 9 determined whether the goal which is to be achieved by the user, is fulfilled or not. If this is not the case, then the award will not be given to the person 11.

[0127] In embodiments, the system includes a coaching module 14 which executes a certain coaching that the person 11 can use to improve the missing skills, competencies, or knowledge.

[0128] In embodiments, this coaching module 14 executes, via the dialogue module 15, an interactive dialogue with the person 11 in the case that the awarding module 9 has determined that the person cannot be awarded due to incompleteness of at least one of the skills or knowledge. In this case, a dialogue is executed with the person 11 in order to teach him based on the data in the knowledge and / or skill database 1, 3 in order to fulfill a respective goal.

[0129] A specific example is described with reference to FIGs. 2A-2D.

[0130] In embodiments, if it is then decided by the coaching module 14 that the training is completed, the coaching module 14 may instruct the person 11 via the dialogue module 15 to input further information or to update his former input and then, based on this information, the awarding is then done or not.

[0131] In embodiments, there is a screen 17 provided which shows the visual output of the dialogue module 15 in text form. In embodiments, on this screen 17, the input of the person may also be seen. The input and output also includes one or more of video content, drawings, or sound content.

[0132] Later, it is described in reference to figures 2 A to 2d an e-mail interaction. In embodiments, this interaction may also be an interaction of the person 11 with colleagues in a Zoom conference or Teams conference, or any interaction in a telephone call.

[0133] In embodiments, the Al bot module 19 interacts with one or more of the following: the coaching module 14, the dialogue module 15, the skill assessment module 5, the knowledge assessment module 7, and the environmental assessment module 13. In embodiments, the Al bot module obtains data from one or more of the skill database 1 and the knowledge database 3.

[0134] In embodiments, this system may also be adapted to be used by a company in a working environment to award the employee points for a respective salary increase or to check whether the negotiated goals with the employees are fulfilled.

[0135] In embodiments, this system may also be used in a private environment where a person setting his own goals in view of wanted skills and knowledge, which he is keen on obtaining.

[0136] FIGs. 2A to 2D, illustrate a hypothetical situation wherein the system is implemented in an app on the PC of an employee of a company called ACME, Inc. The employee is also a student at a respective university and it is checked whether skills needed or knowledge needed for fulfilling an MBA in logistics are fulfilled. However, the following example is not limiting.

[0137] In FIG. 2 A, the time arrow 202 indicates the sequence in which actions are performed on the system.

[0138] In FIG. 2A with the letter “B”, there is provided as an example and email from the boss of the employee, who in this example is Alice. She instructs in this example Bob, who is an employee of ACME, Inc. to provide assistance in negotiations with fuel suppliers. In embodiments, the system would now understand the context of the input information in this email is professional. In embodiments, this information about the context would be processed by the environment assessment module 13. In embodiments, the environment assessment module identifies the goal of Bob based on the input. In embodiments, the environment assessment module modifies the goal of Bob based on the input. For example, the environmental assessment module can modify the goal of Bob from his goal to improving written communication skills to improving written communication skills in a professional setting.

[0139] In this example, the system pulls the personal development notes, where increasing proficiency in win-win negotiation is a skill that has been highlighted for the further professional development.

[0140] Alice outlines parameters of negotiation acceptable for the ACME Inc. company, which are taken into account for the assessment of the demonstrated negotiation skills.

[0141] The system judges that this content is suitable to test whether Bob has knowledge and skills in negotiation.

[0142] The system displays a message 206 to Bob: ‘Hey Bob, this is a great opportunity to work on your win-win negotiation skills! Would you like to make the first hypothesis of how would you handle that request from Alice?’

[0143] Then, the person can click the OK 208 or No button 210 (see letter C in FIG.2A). If he clicks the OK button, then the system starts to work in view of the aforementioned deliberations.

[0144] Bob now drafts an e-mail to the company Fuel & Co 204.

[0145] This email is then assessed by the system 212.

[0146] In this example, the knowledge assessment module 7 of the system as well as the skill assessment module 5 of the system are activated and work as outlined in FIG. 2B. In FIG. 2B, the interactions with the system take place according to the time arrow 221.

[0147] In this example, it is then found out by the knowledge assessment module 7 the module ‘win-win negotiations’ in a course ‘negotiations’ that is a part of MBA in Logistics. The module 7 assesses the factual errors in the write-up demonstrated. The module does not find the factual errors in the draft outreach. The module gives out the judgement: no factual errors are observed in the draft outreach.

[0148] In this example, the skill assessment module 5 determines that the format of the outreach is assessed as poor: negotiations are best done in a meeting format, ideally an in-person meeting, seconded by video call, followed by audio call being better formats. The number of suppliers is limited to only one by Bob, which puts ACME Inc. in a poor position. The content of the outreach is outlining the full negotiating position of ACME Inc. without an understanding of FuelCo’s position, which puts Bob’s employer in a weaker negotiating position. The system gives out the judgement: Bob has failed to demonstrate great application of win-win negotiation skill in the draft outreach.

[0149] However, in the part making the skill assessment, it is determined that the skills are poor due to the aforementioned circumstances. Therefore, in the present case, respectivepoints for win-win negotiations skills are not awarded, in particular since the skill assessment is bad.

[0150] The system then goes to the coaching functionality shown in FIGs. 2B and 2C.

[0151] In embodiments, the dialogue module is used by the coaching module to interact with a person. In embodiments, the dialogue module performs one or more of the following: displaying output from the coaching module to the person, receiving input from the person. In FIGs. 2B and 2C, the dialogue module 15 is used by the coaching module 14 and has the following interaction with Bob. For example, the following dialogue may take place, as also indicated in FIGs. 2B and C:**AI System:** Thank you for your draft, Bob. Let’s go through it step by step. First, let’s assess the factual accuracy of your draft. I see no factual errors in your outreach. Well done on that front!**Bob:** Great to hear!**AI System:** Now, let’s move on to the skill assessment part. I noticed a few areas where your approach could be improved. Let me ask you a few questions to help you think through the negotiation process.**Bob:** Sure, go ahead.**AI System:** First, why do you think it’s important to understand the other party’s position before outlining your own?**Bob:** Well, understanding their position can help us find common ground and identify areas where we can be flexible.**AI System:** Exactly. By understanding FuelCo’s constraints and priorities, you can tailor your proposal to better meet their needs while still achieving your goals. How might you adjust your email to reflect this approach?**Bob:** I could start by requesting a meeting to discuss their position and any constraints they might have.**AI System:** Great idea. Now, let’s think about the format of your outreach. Why might a meeting be more effective than an email for this type of negotiation?**Bob:** A meeting allows for more dynamic interaction and immediate feedback. It also shows that we value the partnership and are willing to invest time in the negotiation.**AI System:** Exactly. Meetings, especially in-person or via video call, can build rapport and trust, which are crucial for successful negotiations. How could you incorporate this into your email?**Bob:** I could request a meeting instead of outlining all the details in the email. **AI System:** Perfect. Lastly, let’s consider the number of suppliers. Why is it important to mention that you are exploring options with multiple suppliers? **Bob:** Mentioning multiple suppliers gives us more leverage and shows that we have alternatives, which can strengthen our negotiating position.**AI System:** Correct. It signals to FuelCo that they need to offer competitive terms to retain our business. How might you include this in your email?**Bob:** I could mention that we are exploring options with multiple suppliers and are eager to understand FuelCo’ s position.**AI System:** Excellent. Let’s revise your draft based on these insights.**[Bob revises the email and sends it to the Al System for review]****Revised Draft:**Subject: Meeting Request to Discuss Fuel Supply ContractDear FuelCo Team,I hope this email finds you well.My name is John, and I am reaching out on behalf of Acme Inc to discuss the renewal of our fuel supply contract for our corporate car fleet, which consists of 2,000 vehicles. We are very interested in continuing our partnership with FuelCo and would like to schedule a meeting to discuss the terms of the new contract. We are exploring options with multiple suppliers and would like to understand your position and any constraints you might have.Please let me know a convenient time for you to discuss this further. We are eager to finalize the details as soon as possible.Thank you for your attention, and I look forward to your response.Best regards,Bob**AI System:** Excellent, Bob! This new draft demonstrates a much better application of win-win negotiation skills. You’ve requested a meeting, mentioned exploring multiple suppliers, and shown a willingness to understand FuelCo’s position.**Bob:** Thank you! I appreciate the feedback.**AI System:** Based on this improved approach, I’m awarding you 0.2 ECTS points for demonstrating better handling of the win-win negotiation skill. Keep up the good work!**Bob:** Thank you! I’ll continue to work on improving my negotiation skills.

[0152] Particularly, the system is informed by the dialogue module 15 that the skills accessed in the skill assessment module 5 are poor and further interactive learning is carried out, which is then shown in FIGs. 2C and D.

[0153] At the end of this dialogue, the system says that the draft e-mail 204 should be revised. The draft email is revised 224.

[0154] In this example, the respective assessment is executed again, and the system performs the process as outline below. For example, the system begins by activating knowledge assessment. In the example, this includes module identification (the system identifies the module 'win-win negotiations' in the course 'Negotiations' that is part of the MBA in Logistics), determining factual accuracy (the system assesses the factual accuracy of Bob's revised email and finds no factual errors), and examining the concepts demonstrated (which includes understanding the other party’s position (Bob demonstrated the concept of understanding the other party's position by requesting a meeting to discuss FuelCo’s constraints and priorities), effective communication format (Bob showed an understanding of the importance of the communication format by opting for a meeting instead of an email), and leveraging multiple suppliers (Bob demonstrated the concept of leveraging multiple suppliers to strengthen the negotiating position). Then, the system’s skill assessment part is activated. In the example, thisincludes assessing the format of the outreach (the system assesses the format of the outreach as good. Bob requested a meeting, which is a more effective format for negotiations compared to an email), the number of suppliers (the system notes that Bob mentioned exploring options with multiple suppliers, which improves ACME Inc. negotiating position), the negotiation position (the system evaluates that Bob did not outline the full negotiating position of ACME Inc. in the initial email, which is a positive move. Instead, he showed a willingness to understand FuelCo’s position first), and judgment (the system judges that Bob has demonstrated a good application of win-win negotiation skills in the revised outreach). Finally, ECTS points are awarded. As part of awarding points, the system looks to the skill level demonstrated (the system assesses that Bob has demonstrated a good level of win-win negotiation skills), and awards ECTS points accordingly (based on the improved approach and the concepts demonstrated, the system awards Bob 0.2 ECTS points for his progress in winwin negotiation skills).

[0155] In this example, at the end, there are the 0.2 ECTS points awarded for his progress in win-win situations.

[0156] Thus, generally, it is shown in the present case that the usual working environment can be used for proving educational skills for studying a respective study.

[0157] However, the present system is not limited thereto and may also be used for personal environments or only working environments.

[0158] In embodiments, how the respective knowledge assessment module 7 and skill assessment module 5 may work, shall be shown in FIGs. 3 A through 3C.

[0159] In embodiments, the respective steps executed in the knowledge assessment module 7 are identified as S302, S304, S306, and S308 in FIG. 3A. In embodiments, the steps executed in the skill assessment module 5 are identified as S312, S314, S316, and S318 in FIG.3B. The steps of the awarding of points based on the judgement of the knowledge assessment module 7 and the skill assessment module 5 is identified with S320 and the coaching executed, if the person’s knowledge and skills are assessed to be poor, is identified with S322.

[0160] In embodiments, the knowledge assessment is conducted according to the following steps. In embodiments, for the knowledge assessment, there is first found a respective module / course in step S302 which is an example of finding information in a course information database. In the step S304, it is then assessed by the knowledge assessment module 7 whether there are factual mistakes in the input from the person and further. In step S306, itis assessed by the knowledge assessment module 7 whether the knowledge of the person contained in the previous input and any further inputs taken into account is complete or not. This assessment can be done based on a determination of what and how much knowledge should at least be presented by the person.

[0161] In embodiments, the skill assessment is conducted by the skill assessment module 5 according to the following steps After the respective skill activation module is activated S300, it derives the skill data in step S312 from the skill database 1 and determines from the respective input that is input in step S314 whether the person has a specific skill. Then it is assessed whether the skills are complete or not S316 and it is output in step S318 a respective judgment.

[0162] In embodiments, the coaching is performed according to the steps below. Based on the judgment by the awarding module 9, there are points awarded in S320. If there cannot be points awarded because the judgment in step S308 or S318 is judged as poor, there is followed a coaching in S322.

[0163] It is not necessary to first assess the knowledge and second assess the skill. It can be also done simultaneously by two different modules.

[0164] In embodiments, a method is performed according to the steps of FIG. 4.

[0165] In embodiments, the method is performed by the process flow chart for awarding business users, as described in FIG. complete process flow chart for awarding business users.

[0166] In FIG. 4, the Al actions taken by the system are taken in the lower panel 401, and the actions taken by the business user are taken in the upper panel 403.

[0167] In embodiments, the system recognizes that a new course is available S400. In embodiments, the system may recognize this through one or more of the following: the Al bot module 18, the knowledge assessment module 7, the skill assessment module 5, the awarding module 9, or the coaching module. In embodiments, the course comprises one or more goals. In embodiments, the one or more goals comprises a required knowledge component and a requires skill component.

[0168] In embodiments, the one or more modules that recognizes that a new course is available obtains the learning outcomes for the course S402. In embodiments, the knowledge assessment module 7 matches the required knowledge data to the learning outcomes of thecourse. In embodiments, the skills assessment module 5 matches the required skills data to the learning outcomes of the course.

[0169] In embodiments, the business user opens a program S424. In embodiments, the program is the system. In embodiments, the program is separate from the system, but is operatively connected to the system such that the system obtains input from the separate program. In embodiments, the business user inputs a first user input into the system S422. In embodiments, the Al bot module 18 obtains the first user input. In embodiments, the Al bot module 18 matches the input to the learning outcome S406. In embodiments, the Al bot module 18 generates a user knowledge data, a user skill data, and a user environment data based on the user input. In embodiments, the environmental assessment module 13 matches the environmental data to the current learning outcome S406.

[0170] In embodiments, one or both of the knowledge assessment module 7 and the skill assessment module 5 generate, respectively, a first knowledge assessment output based on comparing a first required knowledge data and a first person’s knowledge data, and a first skill assessment output based on comparing a first required skill data and a first person’s skill data S408.

[0171] In embodiments, based on one or both of the first knowledge assessment output and the first skill assessment output, the system assess the whether the person has achieved the one or more goals comprising the course. In embodiments, this assessment is performed by the awarding module 9.

[0172] In the case the business user has passed the assessment, they will receive a notification from the system S420.In the case the business user has not passed the assessment, the system will obtain additional business user input S410. In embodiments, the system will continue to collect input from the business user until a determined number of information has been collected 412. In embodiments, the system will perform an additional assessment, and then inform the business user about the ECTS credits granted, based on the additional assessment. In embodiments the ECTS credits will be granted to the business user S416.Further embodiments

[0173] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a system for awarding users including: a knowledge database in which data concerning facts, concepts and / or theoriesare stored, a skill database in which data matching to abilities to perform tasks and / or activities effectively and efficiently are stored, which abilities are determined as skills, an Al bot module, an environmental assessment module which is adapted to assess with the help of the Al bot module an input by the user and to match this input to a goal which is to be achieved by the user, a knowledge assessment module which is adapted to derive with the help of the Al bot module from the users input, knowledge pieces and to check the respective knowledge piece for its correctness and provide as an output data containing information about the quantity of correct and / or incorrect knowledge pieces, wherein the knowledge pieces are derived by matching the users input to the data contained in the knowledge database, wherein the knowledge assessment module is further configured to determine with the help of the Al bot module, the completeness of the users knowledge, a skill assessment module which is adapted to derive with the help of the Al bot module from the users input a respective skill of the user by matching the users input to the data contained in the skill database, wherein the skill assessment module is further configured to determine with the help of the Al bot module, a predetermined completeness of the users skills, and an awarding module, which determines based on the skill assessment executed by the skill assessment module and the knowledge assessment executed by the knowledge assessment module, whether the goal which is to be achieved by the user is fulfilled or not.

[0174] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a system, wherein the goal is to fulfill a predetermined combination of skills with a required skill level, and knowledge in an required amount.

[0175] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a system, wherein the input is a written continuous text, a sound, a video and / or a drawing containing information about a situation in which the user is involved.

[0176] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a system, wherein the written continuous text is an email or email string, and / or where the information about the situation contains professional working environment aspects and / or a private environment of the user and / or a learning environment of the user.

[0177] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to the system of any of the foregoing claims, wherein the goal is constituted by sub-goals to be achieved by the user in order to be successful awarded by the awarding module, wherein at least a first sub-goal definesa knowledge state of the user, and at least a second sub-goal defines a skill-level of the user for a respective skill.

[0178] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to the system of any of the foregoing claims, wherein the goal is one or more selected form the group of the following: Quarterly pre-negotiated goal of an employee, useral goals set by the user in advance, a learning goal set by an educational agency which is to be fulfilled by the student.

[0179] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a system, wherein the goal is an academic degree such as a bachelor degree.

[0180] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a system, wherein the skill level is set up by combining different sub skill levels each for a respective specific skill to one overall skill level of the user.

[0181] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a system, wherein a specific skill is one or more selected form the following group 1 to 4 including the respective sub-skills.

[0182] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to technical Skills, such as Coding, Data Analysis, Mechanical Repair, and / or Graphic Design.

[0183] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to soft Skills such as: Communication, Teamwork, Problem-Solving, and / or Time Management,; 3. Creative Skills such as: Writing, Music Composition, and / or Painting or Drawing; 4. Interuseral Skills such as: Negotiation, Leadership, and / or Empathy.

[0184] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a system, wherein the knowledge state is set up by a plurality of specific fact, concept and / or theory items.

[0185] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to the system of any of the foregoing claims, wherein each knowledge piece is a specific fact, concept and / or theory item, in particular scientific fact, concept and / or theory item, and / or working environment fact, concept and / or theory item and / or useral environment fact, concept and / or theory item.

[0186] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to the system of any of the foregoing claims, wherein the award are ECTS points.

[0187] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to the system of any of the foregoing claims, wherein the system further includes a coaching module, which is adaptedto execute by using the Al bot module, an interactive dialogue with the user in the case that the awarding module has determined that the user cannot be awarded due to incompleteness of at least one of skills and knowledge.

[0188] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a system, wherein the coaching module determines which item of skill and knowledge is incomplete, and executes a dialogue with the user in order to teach him based on the data in the knowledge and / or skill database (1, 3) to fulfill the respective goal.

[0189] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a system, wherein the coaching module is adapted to determine whether has completed the respective item or items and instructs the user to update the input and to execute the knowledge assessment and the skill assessment again, such that the awarding module again determines whether the goal which is to be achieved by the user is fulfilled or not.

[0190] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a system, wherein the dialogue with the user is executed with a dialogue module, which as in input and output interface to exchange the respective information between the user and the system.

[0191] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a method for awarding users including the steps of an environmental assessment step of assessing with the help of an Al bot module an input by a user and to match this input to a goal which is to be achieved by the user, a knowledge assessment step of deriving with the help of the Al bot module from the users input, knowledge pieces and checking the respective knowledge piece for its correctness and providing as an output data containing information about the quantity of correct and / or incorrect knowledge pieces, wherein the knowledge pieces are derived by matching the users input to the data contained in a knowledge database, in which data concerning facts, concepts and / or theories are stored, and determining with the help of the Al bot module, the completeness of the users knowledge; a skill assessment step of deriving with the help of the Al bot module from the users input a respective skill of the user by matching the users input to the data contained in a skill database in which data matching to abilities to perform tasks and / or activities effectively and efficiently are stored, which abilities are determined as skills, and determining with the help of the Al bot module, the completeness of the users skills, and an awarding step of determining based on the skill assessment executed by the skill assessment module and the knowledge assessment executed by the knowledge assessment module, whether the goal which is to be achieved by the user is fulfilled or not.

[0192] In embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a computer readable medium containing instructions for carrying out the method.Definitions

[0193] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and / or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

[0194] In the discussion unless otherwise stated, adjectives such as “substantially” and “about” modifying a condition or relationship characteristic of a feature or features of an embodiment of the invention, are understood to mean that the condition or characteristic is defined to within tolerances that are acceptable for operation of the embodiment for an application for which it is intended. In embodiments, about means within a standard deviation using measurements generally acceptable in the art. In embodiments, about means a range extending to + / - 10% of the specified value. In embodiments, about includes the specified value. Unless otherwise indicated, the word “or” in the specification and claims is considered to be the inclusive “or” rather than the exclusive or, and indicates at least one of and any combination of items it conjoins.

[0195] It should be understood that the terms “a” and “an” as used above and elsewhere herein refer to “one or more” of the enumerated components. It will be clear to one of ordinary skill in the art that the use of the singular includes the plural unless specifically stated otherwise. Therefore, the terms “a,” “an” and “at least one” are used interchangeably in this application.

[0196] For purposes of better understanding the present teachings and in no way limiting the scope of the teachings, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, percentages or proportions, and other numerical values used in the specification and claims, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the following specification and attached claims are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained. At the very least, each numerical parameter shouldat least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

[0197] In the description and claims of the present application, each of the verbs, “comprise,” “include” and “have” and conjugates thereof, are used to indicate that the object or objects of the verb are not necessarily a complete listing of components, elements or parts of the subject or subjects of the verb. Other terms as used herein are meant to be defined by their well-known meanings in the art.

[0198] In the description and claims of the present application, the words “information” and “data” may be used interchangeably.General

[0199] For the foregoing embodiments, each embodiment disclosed herein is contemplated as being applicable to each of the other disclosed embodiments.

[0200] As used herein, all headings are simply for organization and are not intended to limit the disclosure in any manner. The content of any individual section may be equally applicable to all sections. All combinations of the various elements disclosed herein are within the scope of the invention.

[0201] Additional objects, advantages, and novel features of the present invention will become apparent to one ordinarily skilled in the art upon examination of the following examples, which are not intended to be limiting. Additionally, each of the various embodiments and aspects of the present invention as delineated hereinabove and as claimed in the claims section below finds experimental support in the following examples.

[0202] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0203] Additionally, illustrated embodiments / cases are not mutually exclusive, unless so stated and except as will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Thus, theembodiments may include any variety of combinations and / or integrations of the features of the embodiments / cases described herein. Also herein, flow diagrams illustrate non-limiting embodiment / case examples of the methods, and block diagrams illustrate non-limiting embodiment / case examples of the devices. Some operations in the flow diagrams may be described with reference to the embodiments / cases illustrated by the block diagrams. However, the methods of the flow diagrams could be performed by embodiments / cases other than those discussed with reference to the block diagrams, and embodiments / cases discussed with reference to the block diagrams could perform operations different from those discussed with reference to the flow diagrams. Moreover, although the flow diagrams may depict serial operations, certain embodiments / cases could perform certain operations in parallel and / or in different orders from those depicted.

[0204] Furthermore, methods and mechanisms of the embodiments / cases will sometimes be described in singular form for clarity. However, some embodiments / cases may include multiple iterations of a method or multiple instantiations of a mechanism unless noted otherwise.

[0205] Certain features of the embodiments / cases, which may have been, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments / cases, may also be provided in various combinations in a single embodiment / case. Conversely, various features of the embodiments / cases, which may have been, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment / case, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination. The embodiments / cases are not limited in their applications to the details of the order or sequence of steps of operation of methods, or to details of implementation of devices, set in the description, drawings, or examples. In addition, individual blocks illustrated in the figures may be functional in nature and do not necessarily correspond to discrete hardware elements. While the methods disclosed herein have been described and shown with reference to particular steps performed in a particular order, it is understood that these steps may be combined, sub-divided, or reordered to form an equivalent method without departing from the teachings of the embodiments / cases. Accordingly, unless specifically indicated herein, the order and grouping of the steps is not a limitation of the embodiments / cases.

[0206] Embodiments / cases described in conjunction with specific examples are presented by way of example, and not limitation. Moreover, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it isintended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0207] The invention should not be considered limited to the particular embodiments described above. Various modifications, equivalent processes, as well as numerous structures to which the invention may be applicable, will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art to which the invention is directed upon review of this disclosure. The above-described embodiments may be implemented in numerous ways. One or more aspects and embodiments involving the performance of processes or methods may utilize program instructions executable by a device (e.g., a computer, a processor, or other device) to perform, or control performance of, the processes or methods.

[0208] In this respect, various inventive concepts may be embodied as a non-transitory computer readable storage medium (or multiple non-transitory computer readable storage media) (e.g., a computer memory of any suitable type including transitory or non-transitory digital storage units, circuit configurations in Field Programmable Gate Arrays or other semiconductor devices, or other tangible computer storage medium) encoded with one or more programs that, when executed on one or more computers or other processors, perform methods that implement one or more of the various embodiments described above. When implemented in software (e.g., as an app), the software code may be executed on any suitable processor or collection of processors, whether provided in a single computer or distributed among multiple computers.

[0209] Further, it should be appreciated that a computer may be embodied in any of a number of forms, such as a rack-mounted computer, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, or a tablet computer, as non-limiting examples. Additionally, a computer may be embedded in a device not generally regarded as a computer but with suitable processing capabilities, including a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), a smartphone or any other suitable portable or fixed electronic device.

[0210] Also, a computer may have one or more communication devices, which may be used to interconnect the computer to one or more other devices and / or systems, such as, for example, one or more networks in any suitable form, including a local area network or a wide area network, such as an enterprise network, and intelligent network (IN) or the Internet. Such networks may be based on any suitable technology and may operate according to any suitable protocol and may include wireless networks or wired networks.

[0211] Also, a computer may have one or more input devices and / or one or more output devices. These devices can be used, among other things, to present a user interface. Examples of output devices that may be used to provide a user interface include printers or display screens for visual presentation of output and speakers or other sound generating devices for audible presentation of output. Examples of input devices that may be used for a user interface include keyboards, and pointing devices, such as mice, touch pads, and digitizing tablets. As another example, a computer may receive input information through speech recognition or in other audible formats.

[0212] As referred to in the present disclosure, the various computing nodes described herein may include some aspects of a computer.

[0213] The non-transitory computer readable medium or media may be transportable, such that the program or programs stored thereon may be loaded onto one or more different computers or other processors to implement various one or more of the aspects described above. In some embodiments, computer readable media may be non-transitory media.

[0214] The terms “program,” “app,” “module”, and “software” are used herein in a generic sense to refer to any type of computer code or set of computer-executable instructions that may be employed to program a computer or other processor to implement various aspects as described above. Additionally, it should be appreciated that, according to one aspect, one or more computer programs that when executed perform methods of this application need not reside on a single computer or processor but may be distributed in a modular fashion among a number of different computers or processors to implement various aspects of this application.

[0215] Computer-executable instructions may be in many forms, such as program modules, executed by one or more computers or other devices. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that performs particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. The functionality of the program modules may be combined or distributed as desired in various embodiments.

[0216] As used herein, the use of the term “database” or “databases” refers to storage including computer readable memory (also referred to as ‘memory’). For example, databases may be and / or include computer readable memory, used to store data as described in the disclosure. Memory may be embodied by suitable hardware, including but not limited to the following: hard disk drives, serial advanced technology attachment (SATA) hard drives, SATA solid state drives (SSDs), non-volatile memory express (NVMe) SSDs, tape drives.

[0217] Also, data structures may be stored in computer-readable media in any suitable form. For simplicity of illustration, data structures may be shown to have fields that are related through location in the data structure. Such relationships may likewise be achieved by assigning storage for the fields with locations in a computer-readable medium that convey relationship between the fields. However, any suitable mechanism may be used to establish a relationship between information in fields of a data structure, including through the use of pointers, tags or other mechanisms that establish relationship between data elements.

[0218] Thus, the disclosure and claims include new and novel improvements to existing methods and technologies, which were not previously known nor implemented to achieve the useful results described above. Users of the method and system will reap tangible benefits from the functions now made possible on account of the specific modifications described herein causing the effects in the system and its outputs to its users. It is expected that significantly improved operations can be achieved upon implementation of the claimed invention, using the technical components recited herein.

[0219] Also, as described, some aspects may be embodied as one or more methods. The acts performed as part of the method may be ordered in any suitable way. Accordingly, embodiments may be constructed in which acts are performed in an order different than illustrated, which may include performing some acts simultaneously, even though shown as sequential acts in illustrative embodiments.

[0220] The present invention is technical. The system architecture comprising multiple interacting modules such as a knowledge database, a skill database, an artificial intelligence bot module, an environmental assessment module, a knowledge assessment module, a skill assessment module, and an awarding module represents a concrete technical implementation on a computer system. Each module processes input data, generates structured output, and interacts with other modules via defined interfaces. This modular computer-implemented architecture improves the functioning of the computer by enabling efficient processing of heterogeneous inputs such as text, audio, video, or drawings, breaking them into analyzable units, and dynamically matching them against stored data. Such structured processing goes beyond a mere administrative scheme, since it requires technical considerations of data representation, data retrieval, and the integration of machine learning models.

[0221] The use of vector-based similarity search with embeddings provides another technical aspect. Embeddings are generated by machine learning models and represent data in a dense numerical vector space. Performing similarity search in this space is a technical information retrieval method that allows the system to assess semantic similarity of user input against large datasets with improved accuracy and efficiency compared to keyword search. This has a direct impact on the technical performance of the computer system, in particular the speed and quality of matching, and thus solves a technical problem in the field of information processing.

[0222] A further technical aspect is demonstrated in the example involving automated analysis of communications such as e-mails. The system automatically processes unstructured text, extracts relevant information, and evaluates it against a predefined skill set. This is a concrete technical process that requires natural language processing, segmentation into analyzable units, and algorithmic comparison. While the subsequent awarding of credits is not in itself technical, the underlying automatic extraction, parsing, and evaluation of real-time communications in a computing environment constitutes a technical implementation that improves upon prior systems which could not adaptively assess such inputs.

[0223] Finally, the coaching module in combination with the dialogue module provides a further technical contribution. By executing block-based interactive coaching through a user interface, the system adapts its processing based on prior assessments and generates tailored output. This requires technical control of input / output interfaces and dynamic interaction with stored databases, ensuring that the feedback loop is performed automatically by the machine without human intervention. From the perspective of the EPO, this constitutes a technical solution to the problem of providing adaptive human- computer interaction in the field of computer-assisted training.

[0224] The skilled person will appreciate that the invention is not restricted to the specific combinations of features described in the embodiments or set out in the claims. Any of the features disclosed herein, whether alone or in combination, may form an invention in its own right. Likewise, any combination of the disclosed features is possible, and no individual feature is inextricably linked to any other feature. In particular, the system may be realized with only a knowledge assessment module operating with vector-based similarity search, without the inclusion of a coaching module. Conversely, the invention may also be embodied by an interactive coaching and dialogue module that adapts to user inputs, even in the absence of theknowledge database or skill database. Similarly, the analysis of unstructured communication data, such as e-mails, to extract and evaluate skills may be implemented independently of the awarding of credits or the use of environmental assessment. Each of these aspects represents a technical contribution on its own. It is therefore explicitly stated that the disclosed features are not limited to the exemplified embodiments, and that sub-combinations and alternative arrangements fall within the scope of the invention.

[0225] It is further noted that the invention may be embodied in many different forms of technical implementation. The described modules can be realized in software, hardware, or a combination thereof, and may be executed on local computing devices, cloud-based infrastructures, or distributed network environments. The data processed by the system may originate from a wide variety of sources, including structured or unstructured text, sensor data, audio, or video streams, and the invention is not limited to the specific examples provided. Moreover, the system architecture allows for adaptation and extension, such that additional modules or interfaces may be integrated without departing from the inventive concept. These implementation variants are considered to be encompassed by the invention as disclosed.

[0226] Further embodiments of the invention may be as follows:Item 1: A system comprising:(a) a knowledge database including one or more required knowledge data associated with one or more goals of a user;(b) a skill database including required skill data associated with the one or more goals,(c) an Al bot module, configured to generate, based on a first user’s input:(i) first user environmental data associated with the first user’ s environment;(ii) first user knowledge data associated with the first user’ s knowledge; and(iii) first user skill data associated with the first user’ s skill;(d) an environmental assessment module configured to match the first user environmental data to a current goal selected from the one or more goals; (e) a knowledge assessment module, configured to:(i) obtain required knowledge data from the knowledge database based on the current goal; and(ii) generate a first knowledge assessment as an output based on the first required knowledge data and the first user knowledge data;(f) a skill assessment module, configured to:(i) select first required skill data from the skill database based on the current goal; and(ii) compare the first required skill data and the first user skill data to generate a first skill assessment as an output; and(g) an awarding module, configured to generate an award associated with the current goal based on at least one of the first skill assessment and the first knowledge assessment.Item 2: The system of item 1, wherein the current goal is to fulfill a defined combination of skills and knowledge.Item 3 : The system of any of item 1 or 2, wherein the one or more goals are input into the system by one or more of the user, an employer of the user, and an instructor of the user.Item 4: The system of any of items 1 to 3, wherein the one or more goals comprises one or more of a credential, a promotion checklist, a course curriculum, or a degree curriculum.Item 5: The system of any of items 1 to 4, wherein the first user input is one or more of a written text, a sound, a video and / or a drawing containing information about a situation in which the person is involved.Item 6: The system of any of items 1 to 5, wherein the written text is an email or email string, and / or where the information about the situation contains professional working environment aspects and / or a private environment of the person and / or a learning environment of the person.Item 7: The system of any of items 1 to 6, wherein the one or more goals comprises one or more sub-goals, wherein at least a first sub-goal defines a knowledge state of the person, and at least a second sub-goal defines a skill-level of the person for a respective skill.Item 8: The system of any of items 1 to 7, wherein the one or more goals are one or more of the following: Quarterly pre-negotiated goal of an employee, personal goals set bythe person in advance, a learning goal set by an educational agency which is to be fulfilled by the student.Item 9: The system of any of items 1 to 8, wherein the goal is an academic degree such as a bachelor degree.Item 10: The system of any of items 1 to 8, wherein the first required skill data comprises different sub-skills.Item 11 : The system of any of items 1 to 10, wherein the first user skill comprises one or more sub-skills selected from the group consisting of: Coding, Data Analysis, Mechanical Repair, Graphic Design, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-Solving, Time Management, Writing, Music Composition, Painting or Drawing, Negotiation, Leadership, and / or EmpathyItem, 12: The system of any of items 1 to 11, wherein the award is college or university credit.Item 13: The system of any of items 1 to 12, wherein the system further comprises a coaching module configured to generate coaching feedback based on the award, the first knowledge assessment and the first skill assessment.Item 14: The system of any of items 1 to 14, wherein the Al bot module is further configured to package the first person’s environmental data, the first person’s knowledge data, the first person’s skill data, and the one or more goals into a personalized training dataset.Item 15: A method comprising:(a) obtaining, by an Al bot module, one or more goals of a user;(b) obtaining, by the Al bot module, a first user’s input;(c) generating, by an Al bot module, based on a first user’s input:(i) first user environmental data associated with the first user‘ s environment;(ii) first user knowledge data associated with the first user’ s knowledge; and(iii) first person’s skill data associated with the first user’s skill;(d) matching, by an environmental assessment module, first environmental data to a current goal selected from the one or more goals;(e) obtaining, by a knowledge assessment module, first required knowledge data from a knowledge database based on the current goal;(f) generating, by the knowledge assessment module, a first knowledge assessment as an output based on he first required knowledge data and the first user’ s knowledge data;(g) selecting, by a skill assessment module, a first required skill data from a skill database based on the current goal;(h) generating, by the skill assessment module, a first skill assessment as an output by comparing the first required skill data and the first user’ s skill data; and(i) generating, by an awarding module, an award associated with the current goal based on at least one of the first skill assessment and the first knowledge assessment.Item 16: A computer readable medium containing instructions for carrying out the method of item 15.

[0227] Reference Sign List

[0228] 1 skill database

[0229] 3 knowledge database

[0230] 5 skill assessment module

[0231] 7 knowledge assessment module

[0232] 9 awarding module

[0233] 11 person

[0234] 13 environmental assessment module

[0235] 14 coaching module

[0236] 15 dialogue module

[0237] 17 screen

[0238] 18 Al bot module

Claims

CLAIMS1. A system for awarding users (11) comprising:a knowledge database (3) in which data concerning facts, concepts and / or theories are stored, a skill database (1) in which data matching to abilities to perform tasks and / or activities effectively and efficiently are stored, which abilities are determined as skills,an Al bot module (18),an environmental assessment module (13) which is adapted to assess with the help of the Al bot module (18) an input by the user (11) and to match this input to a goal which is to be achieved by the user (11),a knowledge assessment module (7) which is adapted to derive with the help of the Al bot module (18) from the users (11) input, knowledge pieces and to check the respective knowledge piece for its correctness and provide as an output data containing information about the quantity of correct and / or incorrect knowledge pieces, wherein the knowledge pieces are derived by matching the users (11) input to the data contained in the knowledge database (3), wherein the knowledge assessment module (7) is further configured to determine with the help of the Al bot module (13), the completeness of the users (11) knowledge,a skill assessment module (5) which is adapted to derive with the help of the Al bot module (18) from the users (11) input a respective skill of the user by matching the users (11) input to the data contained in the skill database (1), wherein the skill assessment module (5) is further configured to determine with the help of the Al bot module (18), a predetermined completeness of the users (11) skills,and an awarding module (9), which determines based on the skill assessment executed by the skill assessment module (5) and the knowledge assessment executed by the knowledge assessment module (7), whether the goal which is to be achieved by the user is fulfilled or not.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the goal is to fulfill a predetermined combination of skills with a required skill level, and knowledge in an required amount.

3. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the input is a written continuous text, a sound, a video and / or a drawing containing information about a situation in which the user (11) is involved.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the written continuous text is an email or email string, and / or where the information about the situation contains professional working environment aspects and / or a private environment of the user and / or a learning environment of the user.

5. The system of any of the foregoing claims, wherein the goal is constituted by sub-goals to be achieved by the user (11) in order to be successful awarded by the awarding module (9), wherein at least a first sub-goal defines a knowledge state of the user (11), and at least a second sub-goal defines a skill-level of the user (11) for a respective skill.

6. The system of any of the foregoing claims, wherein the goal is one or more selected form the group of the following: Quarterly pre-negotiated goal of an employee, personal goals set by the user in advance, a learning goal set by an educational agency which is to be fulfilled by the student.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the goal is an academic degree such as a bachelor degree.

8. The system of any of claims 2 to 7, wherein the skill level is set up by combining different sub skill levels each for a respective specific skill to one overall skill level of the user.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein a specific skill is one or more selected form the following group 1 to 4 including the respective sub-skills1. Technical Skills, such asCoding,Data Analysis, Mechanical Repair,and / or Graphic Design, ;2. Soft Skills such as:Communication,Teamwork, Problem-Solving,and / or Time Management; 3. Creative Skills such as:Writing, Music Composition, and / or Painting or Drawing;4. Interpersonal Skills such as:Negotiation, Leadership, and / or Empathy.

10. The system of any of claims 5 to 9, wherein the knowledge state is set up by a plurality of specific fact, concept and / or theory items.

11. The system of any of the foregoing claims, wherein each knowledge piece is a specific fact, concept and / or theory item, in particular scientific fact, concept and / or theory item, and / or working environment fact, concept and / or theory item and / or personal environment fact, concept and / or theory item.

12. The system of any of the foregoing claims, wherein the award are ECTS points.

13. The system of any of the foregoing claims, wherein the system further comprises a coaching module (14), which is adapted to execute by using the Al bot module (18), an interactive dialogue with the user (11) in the case that the awarding module (9) has determined that the user (11) cannot be awarded due to incompleteness of at least one of skills and knowledge.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the coaching module (14) determines which item of skill and knowledge is incomplete, and executes a dialogue with the user (11) in order to teach him based on the data in the knowledge and / or skill database (1, 3) to fulfill the respective goal.

15. The system of claim 13 or 14, wherein the coaching module (14) is adapted to determine whether has completed the respective item or items and instructs the user (11) to update the input and to execute the knowledge assessment and the skill assessment again, such that the awarding module again determines whether the goal which is to be achieved by the user (11) is fulfilled or not.

16. The system of any of claims 13 to 15, wherein the dialogue with the user is executed with a dialogue module (15), which as in input and output interface to exchange the respective information between the user (11) and the system.

17. A method for awarding users (11) comprising the steps ofan environmental assessment stepof assessing with the help of an Al bot module (18) an input by a user (11) and to match this input to a goal which is to be achieved by the user (11),a knowledge assessment stepof deriving with the help of the Al bot module (18) from the users (11) input, knowledge pieces and checking the respective knowledge piece for its correctness and providing as an output data containing information about the quantity of correct and / or incorrect knowledge pieces, wherein the knowledge pieces are derived by matching the users (11) input to the data contained in a knowledge database (3), in which data concerning facts, concepts and / or theories are stored, and determining with the help of the Al bot module (18), the completeness of the users knowledge;a skill assessment stepof deriving with the help of the Al bot module (18) from the users (11) input a respective skill of the user (11) by matching the users (11) input to the data contained in a skill database (1) in which data matching to abilities to perform tasks and / or activities effectively and efficiently are stored, which abilities are determined as skills, and determining with the help of the Al bot module (18), the completeness of the users (11) skills,and an awarding step of determining based on the skill assessment executed by the skill assessment module (5) and the knowledge assessment executed by the knowledge assessment module (7), whether the goal which is to be achieved by the user (11) is fulfilled or not.

18. A computer readable medium containing instructions for carrying out the method of claim 17.

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