Information processing system, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To present a learning medium according to a learning purpose.SOLUTION: There is provided an information processing system including an external server and a host terminal capable of communicating various kinds of information with the external server. The external server includes transmission means of transmitting a learning content to the host terminal. The host terminal includes reception means of receiving the learning content from the external server, and determination means of determining a learning medium to indicate the learning content.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing system, an information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a technology that allows teachers to select learning content that is expected to have a learning effect that is suitable for the teacher's lesson plan by presenting learning content (also called learning content) that has been evaluated based on students' reactions during class, etc. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-35455 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, for example, if the learning content is intended to solidify memory, paper media are preferable in terms of stimulating brain activity. Also, for example, if the learning content is intended to provide information, paper media is not necessary and electronic media is acceptable, but conventional technologies have not even considered presenting learning media suited to such purposes.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to present learning media that correspond to learning objectives. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An information processing system according to one aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing system including an external server and a host terminal capable of communicating various information with the external server, wherein the external server has a transmitting means for transmitting learning content to the host terminal, and the host terminal has a receiving means for receiving the learning content from the external server and a recommendation means for recommending at least one of a paper medium and an electronic medium as a learning medium for indicating the learning content. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present disclosure, learning media can be presented according to learning objectives. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a network configuration diagram of an information processing system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the image forming apparatus in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus of FIG. 1. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the management server of FIG. 1. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the host terminal of FIG. 1. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing a contract process for a learning service. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a learning medium selection process. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a recommended learning medium determination process. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a subject selection screen. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a teaching material selection screen. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displaying a list of downloaded teaching materials; [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen on which an electronic medium as a learning medium is displayed. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print confirmation screen for a print instruction for a paper medium as a learning medium. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of recommended study media for each study field. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a learning medium selection screen. [Figure 17] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an answer result transmission process. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process for calculating an average score of the scoring results. [Figure 19] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a learning medium selection process. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a learning medium selection screen. [Figure 21] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a recommended print setting process for a paper medium. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of recommended print settings for paper media for each learning field. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the present disclosure, and the combinations of features described in the following embodiments are not necessarily essential to the solutions of the present disclosure. Note that the same reference numerals are used to designate the same components.

[0010] <<First Embodiment>> (overview) In this embodiment, an example is described in which at least one of paper and electronic media is recommended as a learning medium for presenting learning content, thereby presenting learning media according to learning objectives. The form of the learning content is not particularly limited, and may take various forms depending on the purpose, such as explanations or questions. The form of the learning content may include at least one of audio content and video content. The learning medium is, for example, at least one of paper and electronic media. Examples of paper media include plain paper and long sheets of paper. Electronic media are media that can be transmitted via at least one of wired and wireless communication media and can be viewed via various terminals. Electronic media are also media that can be appropriately stored in various types of memory, such as semiconductor memory. Learning media are used by learners, such as children and students, but are not particularly limited thereto. Learning media may also be used by teachers, who are in a position to teach learners, to prepare learning materials for the learners. Target users of the learning media, such as learners and teachers, are referred to as users, as appropriate.

[0011] (System Configuration) FIG. 1 is a network configuration diagram of an information processing system 1. The information processing system 1 includes an image forming apparatus 100, a host terminal 101, a router-integrated ONU (Optical Network Unit) 105, and a management server 107. The image forming apparatus 100 has a function of performing a printing operation using consumables. The printing method of the image forming apparatus 100 may be any of electrophotography, inkjet, stencil printing, and other methods. The image forming apparatus 100 is communicably connected to the host terminal 101. The image forming apparatus 100 is connected to the Internet 106 via the router-integrated ONU. The host terminal 101 is communicably connected to the image forming apparatus 100. The host terminal 101 is connected to the Internet 106 via the router-integrated ONU. Examples of the host terminal 101 include, but are not limited to, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a personal computer. The host terminal 101 may also be a terminal that is intended to be worn on the wrist, such as a smartwatch. Alternatively, the host terminal 101 may be, for example, a head-mounted display that is intended to be worn on the head. The router-integrated ONU is a device in which the functionality of a router is implemented in an ONU. The ONU is a terminal device for an optical line. The router-integrated ONU is connected to the Internet 106 via the optical line. The router-integrated ONU has the function of converting between optical signals of the optical line and electrical digital signals. Therefore, the router-integrated ONU can relay between the image forming apparatus 100 and the host terminal 101 and the management server 107 via the Internet 106.

[0012] The management server 107 is connected to the Internet 106. The various services provided by the management server 107 are services provided via the Internet 106. In this embodiment, the management server 107 is an external server located outside the host terminal 101 and provides one such service, a learning service. The learning service is, for example, a service that provides learning content. Details of the learning content will be described later. Services provided by the management server 107, such as the learning service, may be implemented as cloud services or web services. The management server 107 allows the host terminal 101 to complete contract procedures for the learning service. When the contract procedures for the learning service are completed, the management server 107 stores information about the user who has signed up, identification information of the image forming device 100 to be used in the learning service, and answer data or log information transmitted from the image forming device 100. Here, the identification information of the image forming device 100 is, for example, the serial number of the image forming device 100, but is not limited thereto. The identification information of the image forming device 100 may also be the MAC address of the image forming device 100. That is, the identification information of the image forming device 100 may be in any form as long as it is information that can identify the image forming device 100 within the same network on which the learning service is provided.

[0013] Here, the network refers to a physical network configured to provide a service such as a learning service. For example, the network is configured as a physical network from a management server 107 and an image forming device 100. In this case, the host terminal 101 accesses the management server 107 when applying for or using the learning service. When recording on paper media, the host terminal 101 accesses the management server 107, and the management server 107 controls the image forming device accordingly.

[0014] The network may be a virtual network configured to provide a service such as a learning service. For example, the network may be a single large network in which the management server 107 and the image forming device 100 are virtually connected as a virtual network. In this case, the host terminal 101 may virtually access the instance providing the learning service as a cloud computing instance. Alternatively, in the example of FIG. 1, there is only one management server 107 and one image forming device 100, but this is not limiting. For example, the network may be a single large network in which multiple management servers 107 and multiple image forming devices 100 are virtually connected as a virtual network.

[0015] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 or the host terminal 101 is not limited to being connected to the Internet 106 via a wired communication medium such as an optical fiber line. For example, the image forming apparatus 100 or the host terminal 101 may be connected to the Internet 106 via a wireless communication medium, and the learning service may be provided via the Internet 106. For example, if the host terminal 101 is a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, it may be connected to a base station via a wireless communication medium, connected to the Internet 106 via the base station, and then the learning service may be provided via the Internet 106.

[0016] (Image forming apparatus 100) FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 of FIG. 1. The image forming apparatus 100 has a touch panel 201, a platen 202, a paper feed slot 203, and a paper discharge slot 204. The touch panel 201 accepts various operations for the image forming apparatus 100. Thus, a user can control the image forming apparatus 100 via the touch panel 201. Note that the touch panel 201 is an example of a user interface for accepting various operations. The size or type of the touch panel 201 is not limited, and other types of user interfaces may be used. For example, instead of the touch panel 201, a user interface that accepts various operations via push buttons may be used. The platen 202 is made of a transparent material. A flatbed scanner (not shown) is provided below the platen 202. Thus, the image forming apparatus 100 can scan paper by placing the paper on the platen 202. Data generated by scanning the paper can be saved by the image forming apparatus 100. Alternatively, data generated by scanning a sheet of paper can be transmitted to the management server 107 by the image forming apparatus 100. Here, "sheet of paper" refers to a paper medium having at least one of text and an image printed on at least one of the front and back sides. While the present embodiment describes an example in which the scanning mechanism is configured as a flatbed scanner, this is not limiting. The scanning mechanism may be configured as a sheet-fed scanner. Alternatively, the scanning mechanism may be configured as an overhead scanner. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the internal configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 of FIG. 1. The image forming apparatus 100 includes a carriage 301. The carriage 301 houses an ink tank 302. The ink tank 302 is filled with recording material. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 of FIG. 1. The image forming apparatus 100 includes an image forming apparatus main body 450 and a cartridge 460. The image forming apparatus main body 450 has a function of performing a printing operation using a recording material. The cartridge 460, which will be described later, is filled with recording material.Image forming apparatus main body 450 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 451, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 452, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 453. Image forming apparatus main body 450 also includes an NVRAM (Non-Volatile RAM) 454, a communication control unit 455, a print control unit 456, a print unit 457, and a connection unit 458.

[0017] The CPU 451 functions as a system control unit of the image forming apparatus 100. The CPU 451 controls the entire image forming apparatus 100. The CPU 451 is also referred to as component 451 as appropriate. The ROM 452 holds control execution code (programs) for the image forming apparatus 100. The ROM 452 is also referred to as component 452 as appropriate. The RAM 453 temporarily stores print image data during control execution of the image forming apparatus 100. The RAM 453 is also referred to as component 453 as appropriate. The NVRAM 454 is composed of non-volatile memory. The NVRAM 454 stores contract information necessary for maintenance of the image forming apparatus 100, various data records, and print information, which is information related to images to be printed. The NVRAM 454 is also referred to as component 454 as appropriate. The communication control unit 455 controls data exchange with external devices via the Internet 106 or various interfaces. The communication control unit 455 is also referred to as component 455 as appropriate. The print control unit 456 controls print processing via a print unit 457. Print control unit 456 is also referred to as component 456 as appropriate. Print unit 457 is provided as carriage 301 in Fig. 3, and performs printing processing upon receiving a print command from print control unit 456. Print unit 457 is also referred to as component 457 as appropriate.

[0018] The print information refers to study content received from the management server 107. The print control unit 456 generates the print information on a job-by-job basis, which involves a printing operation. Alternatively, the print information is generated by placing the study content, for which the student has completed the answers, on the platen 202 and scanning it. The generated print information is sent to the management server 107 by the communication control unit 455. The cartridge 460 is filled with a recording material. The recording material is used as ink when the printing unit 457 records at least one of characters and images on a paper medium. The cartridge 460 is configured to be detachable from the connection unit 458 and replaceable. The connection unit 458 is also appropriately referred to as the component 458. The cartridge 460 is, for example, an ink cartridge such as the ink tank 302 shown in FIG. 3. The ink cartridge is filled with a recording material used in an inkjet printing system. Alternatively, the cartridge 460 may be, for example, a toner cartridge. The toner cartridge is filled with a recording material used in an electrophotographic printing system. The cartridge 460 has a memory 461. The memory 461 records first cartridge information for identifying the cartridge 460 and second cartridge information for representing remaining ink amount information. The first cartridge information 1 is a serial number assigned when the cartridge 460 is manufactured. The second cartridge information is information regarding the remaining amount of ink contained in the cartridge 460, and may be expressed using a volume unit. Alternatively, the second cartridge information may be expressed as a remaining amount level divided by a predetermined threshold.

[0019] The above components 451 to 458 can be connected to one another via a bus 462. The bus 462 is managed by the CPU 451.

[0020] (Administration Server 107) Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the management server 107 in Fig. 1. The management server 107 includes a CPU 551, a ROM 552, a RAM 553, a HDD (Hard Disc Drive) 554, and a communication control unit 555.

[0021] The CPU 551 functions as a system control unit of the management server 107. The CPU 551 controls the entire management server 107. The CPU 551 is also referred to as a component 551, as appropriate. The ROM 552 stores control execution code (programs) for the management server 107. The ROM 552 may store an operating system, an embedded operating system (OS), or the like. The ROM 552 is also referred to as a component 552. The RAM 553 temporarily stores various data during control execution of the management server 107. The RAM 553 is also referred to as a component 553, as appropriate. The HDD 554 is composed of non-volatile memory. The HDD 554 stores various data necessary for maintaining the management server 107. The HDD 554 stores information about users who have subscribed to the learning service. The HDD 554 stores identification information for the image forming device 100 to be used in the learning service. Here, the identification information for the image forming device 100 is, for example, the serial number of the image forming device 100, as described above. The HDD 554 stores answer data or log information transmitted from the image forming apparatus 100. The HDD 554 is also referred to as a component 554 as appropriate. The communication control unit 555 controls the exchange of data with the outside via the Internet 106 or various interfaces. The communication control unit 555 is also referred to as a component 555 as appropriate.

[0022] The above components 551 to 555 can be connected to one another via a bus 556. The bus 556 is managed by the CPU 551.

[0023] (Host terminal 101) Fig. 6 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the host terminal 101 in Fig. 1. The host terminal 101 has a CPU 651, a ROM 652, a RAM 653, an HDD 654, and a communication control unit 655. The host terminal 101 is a communication device that can connect to a network via the Internet 106 and communicate with the management server 107 and also with the image forming apparatus 100.

[0024] The CPU 651 functions as a system control unit of the host terminal 101. The CPU 651 controls the entire host terminal 101. The CPU 651 is also referred to as a component 651 as appropriate. The CPU 651 launches an application that can use web services or web content, such as a web browser, stored in the ROM 652. Next, the CPU 651 accesses the management server 107 using the communication control unit 655 and performs contract procedures for the learning service. The ROM 652 is also referred to as a component 652 as appropriate. The communication control unit 655 is also referred to as a component 655 as appropriate. The RAM 653 temporarily stores various data when the host terminal 101 executes control. The RAM 653 is also referred to as a component 653 as appropriate. The HDD 654 is composed of non-volatile memory. The HDD 654 stores various data necessary for maintaining the host terminal 101. The HDD 654 is also referred to as a component 654 as appropriate.

[0025] The above components 651 to 655 can be connected to one another via a bus 656. The bus 656 is managed by the CPU 651.

[0026] (Learning service contract process) Next, the process leading up to a contract for using the learning service in an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a sequence diagram showing the contract process for the learning service. The process shown in FIG. 7 is realized by the mutual cooperation of CPU 651 of host terminal 101, CPU 551 of management server 107, and CPU 451 of image forming apparatus 100. Note that some or all of the functions of the steps in FIG. 7 may be realized by hardware such as an ASIC or electronic circuit. The symbol "S" in the description of each process indicates that it is a step in the flowchart.

[0027] The process shown in FIG. 7 starts when the host terminal 101 attempts to access the learning service contract URL (Uniform Resource Locator) of the management server 107. In S701, the learning service contract URL of the management server 107 is accessed from the web browser of the host terminal 101 or the like. That is, the web browser executed by the CPU 651 of the host terminal 101 (hereinafter referred to as the web browser of the host terminal 101) performs the following operation. That is, the web browser of the host terminal 101 references the learning service contract URL of the management server 107 and requests the web server specified by the learning service contract URL to transmit the data of the learning service contract web page. When the web browser of the host terminal 101 acquires the resources transmitted from the management server 107 in response to this request, it performs rendering and displays the learning service contract web page on the web browser. In S702, the web browser of the host terminal 101 accepts input of information required for the learning service contract from the user. The information required for the learning service contract includes, for example, the name or address of the subscriber and the payment method. When the CPU 551 of the management server 107 confirms that the information required for the learning service contract has been correctly entered via the web browser of the host terminal 101, it notifies the host terminal 101 of the completion of the learning service contract in S703. Thereafter, the CPU 551 of the management server 107 transmits learning service contract information to the image forming apparatus 100 in S704, upon conclusion of the learning service contract. The CPU 451 of the image forming apparatus 100 records the learning service contract information in S705. The record may be on paper or electronic media. If the record is on paper media, the image forming apparatus 100 records the learning service contract information on the paper media. If the record is on electronic media, the image forming apparatus 100 saves the learning service contract information in a data format that can be viewed as electronic media. This starts the provision of various services related to the learning service.

[0028] Next, the process of selecting a learning medium for the learning content downloaded to the host terminal 101 will be explained using Figure 8. Figure 8 is a flowchart explaining the learning medium selection process. The process shown in Figure 8 is realized by the CPU 651 of the host terminal 101 and the CPU 551 of the management server 107 working together. Note that some or all of the functions of the steps in Figure 8 may be realized by hardware such as an ASIC or electronic circuit. The symbol "S" in the explanation of each process indicates a step in the flowchart.

[0029] The process shown in FIG. 8 begins when the host terminal 101 executes a process to prompt the user to select study content. While the explanation of FIG. 8 shows a series of steps performed by the host terminal 101, the image forming apparatus 100 may be the entity that downloads and controls the study content. In S801, the CPU 651 of the host terminal 101 (hereinafter simply referred to as the CPU 651) determines whether a download instruction (also referred to as a download request) for the study content has been issued. An example of the download instruction for the study content is shown in FIG. 10. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a subject selection screen. FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a subject selection screen displayed by the CPU 651, which includes a subject selection image 1001 and an explanation for the user. The explanation for the user includes the question, "Which subject would you like to select?" The subject selection image 1001 includes a title and specific items of the title. The title displays "Subject Name." The specific items of the title include "Kanji," "English," "Modern Japanese," "Essay," and "Mathematics," which are displayed vertically. For example, when a user selects kanji via the host terminal 101, the subject selection screen transitions to a learning material selection screen. An example of the learning material selection screen will be described with reference to FIG. 11. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the learning material selection screen. FIG. 11 shows an example of a learning material selection screen displayed by the CPU 651, which includes a learning material option image 1101 and an explanation for the user. The explanation for the user is, "Which learning material would you like to select?" The learning material option image 1101 includes a title and specific items of the title. The title is displayed as "Learning Material Name." The specific items of the title are, "Kanji Dictation 1," "Kanji Dictation 2," "Kanji Reading 1," and "Kanji Reading 2," which are displayed vertically. Here, when "Kanji Dictation 1" is selected by the user, the CPU 651 determines that an instruction to download study content has been issued, and advances the process from S801 to S802. In S802 , the CPU 651 downloads the study content from the management server 107 and stores it in the HDD 655 .When the study content is saved on the HDD 655, the contents of the downloaded learning materials are displayed to the user. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a downloaded learning material list display screen. FIG. 12 shows an example of a downloaded learning material list display screen including a study content list display image 1201 displayed by the CPU 651. The study content list display image 1201 includes a title and specific items of the title. The title displayed is "Learning Material Name." The specific item of the title displayed is "Kanji Dictation 1." In other words, the downloaded learning content is displayed in a list on the study content list display image 1201. The CPU 651 advances the process of S802 to S803. In S803, the CPU 651 obtains recommended learning medium information indicating recommended learning media for studying the study content downloaded in S802 from the management server 107, and saves the information on the HDD 655. The recommended learning medium information will be described later with reference to FIGS. 9 and 15. The CPU 651 advances the process of S803 to S804. In S804, the CPU 651 displays a learning medium selection screen via a web browser or a dedicated application. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the learning medium selection screen. FIG. 16 shows an example of a learning medium selection screen displayed by the CPU 651, including an electronic medium selection icon 1601, a paper medium selection icon 1602, and a recommended comment field 1603. The electronic medium selection icon 1601 is a rectangular icon located on the left side of the center of the learning medium selection screen, and displays the character string "touch panel." The paper medium selection icon 1602 is a rectangular icon located on the right side of the center of the learning medium selection screen, and displays the character string "print on paper." The recommended comment field 1603 is located in the center of the bottom of the learning medium selection screen, and displays, for example, the following character string as the recommended learning medium information received in S803: That is, in the recommended comment field 1603, for example, a character string such as "It is said that learning kanji on paper helps to retain them in memory, so I recommend learning on paper." is displayed.The learning medium selection screen displays the option of printing the content on paper media and studying using the paper medium selection icon 1602, and the option of studying on the host terminal 101 using the electronic medium selection icon 1601. The learning medium selection screen also displays recommended learning medium information in a recommended comment field 1603. When either the electronic medium selection icon 1601 or the paper medium selection icon 1602 is selected, the CPU 651 advances the processing of S804 to S805. In S805, the CPU 651 requests the output of the learning content to the learning medium selected by the user based on the operation details on the learning medium selection screen.

[0030] For example, when the user selects the electronic medium selection icon 1601, the CPU 651 displays the study content on the web browser or a dedicated application of the host terminal 101. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displaying an electronic medium as a study medium. In FIG. 13, when "Kanji Dictation 1" is selected as the study content, a blank space 1301 and a question corresponding to the blank space 1301 are displayed side by side. Specifically, the question "Deliver a package" is displayed, with "Deliver" underlined. The blank space 1301 corresponding to the question is ready to accept user input. This allows the user to use the study content by answering the question. Similarly to the blank space 1301, questions corresponding to the blank spaces 1302 and 1303 are displayed side by side. Specifically, the question "Split a watermelon" is displayed, with "watermelon" underlined. The blank space 1302 corresponding to the question is ready to accept user input. Therefore, study content can be used by taking the same action as in blank space 1301. Also, the question "dry your hair" is displayed, with "dry" underlined. Blank space 1303 corresponding to this question is ready to accept input from the user. Therefore, study content can be used by taking the same action as in blank space 1301.

[0031] On the other hand, when the user selects the paper medium selection icon 1602, the CPU 651 issues a print instruction to the image forming apparatus 100. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a print confirmation screen for a print instruction for a paper medium as a learning medium. FIG. 14 shows an example of a print confirmation screen displayed by the CPU 651, including a preview field 1401, a print setting field 1402, a print icon 1403, and a cancel icon 1404. The preview field 1401 is located on the left side of the center of the print confirmation screen. The preview field 1401 displays the contents of the learning content on an image. The print setting field 1402 is located on the right side of the center of the print confirmation screen. The print setting field 1402 displays a list of two printers capable of printing on paper media, arranged vertically. Note that the print setting field 1402 lists printer XXX and printer YYY, but is not limited to this. In addition, in the print setting field 1402, printer XXX is selected by the user and displayed with a shaded area. Furthermore, the current status of printer XXX is indicated as "Ready," indicating that further detailed settings are available. In addition, the print setting field 1402 displays a number of copies setting acceptance icon as a print setting. Print icon 1403 is a rectangular icon located at the bottom left of the print confirmation screen, displaying the character string "Print." Cancel icon 1404 is a rectangular icon located at the bottom right of the print confirmation screen, displaying the character string "Cancel." For example, when the print icon 1403 is selected by the user, the CPU 651 issues a print instruction to the image forming apparatus 100, and the image forming apparatus 100 performs a printing operation based on the print instruction. The printing operation by the image forming apparatus 100 is performed, for example, using a dedicated printer driver. On the other hand, when the cancel icon 1404 is selected by the user, the CPU 651 transitions the screen from the print confirmation screen of FIG. 14 to the learning medium selection screen of FIG. 16.

[0032] Next, recommended learning medium information will be explained using Figure 9. Figure 9 is a flowchart explaining the recommended learning medium determination process. The process shown in Figure 9 is realized by the CPU 651 of the host terminal 101 and the CPU 551 of the management server 107 working together. Note that some or all of the functions of the steps in Figure 9 may be realized by hardware such as an ASIC or electronic circuit. The symbol "S" in the explanation of each process indicates a step in the flowchart.

[0033] The process shown in FIG. 9 is initiated by the process of S801 in FIG. 8. In S901, the CPU 551 of the management server 107 (hereinafter, simply referred to as the CPU 551) receives the download request for the study content in S801. In S902, the CPU 551 determines recommended study media for the study content requested for download. The CPU 551 generates study media information indicating the determined recommended study media. The generated study media information is acquired by the process of S803. The recommended study media are categorized, for example, by study field. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of recommended study media for each study field. In the example of FIG. 15, the administrator of the management server 107 has determined the recommended study media for each study field in advance. The study fields in FIG. 15 include study fields that require memory retention. Examples of study fields that require memory retention include kanji and essays. Recommended study media for kanji and essays include paper media. When learning content is printed on paper, for example, learners using the paper actively stimulate not only their visual sense but also their tactile sense, thereby stimulating the learner's five senses appropriately. Furthermore, the learning fields in Figure 15 include learning fields in which writing is relatively rare. Examples of learning fields in which writing is relatively rare include English reading comprehension and modern Japanese. Recommended learning media for each of English reading comprehension and modern Japanese include electronic media. That is, the management server 107 generates recommended learning medium information based on the learning field of the learning content. The recommended learning medium information indicates whether either paper or electronic media is recommended. Furthermore, the learning fields in Figure 15 include learning fields for which it is difficult to determine a recommended learning medium. An example of a learning field for which it is difficult to determine a recommended learning medium is mathematics. While using paper media can benefit the brain, mathematics is not a learning field that requires as much memory retention as kanji. Since mathematics is considered to be a field in which the thought process takes priority over memory retention, in the example of Figure 15, it is difficult to determine the recommended learning medium, and the recommended learning medium is set to "none."If there is even the slightest benefit to using paper media, the recommended study medium may be paper media, such as essays. In other words, the management server 107 generates recommended study medium information that indicates whether paper media or electronic media is recommended based on the degree of memory retention required for the study content. While FIG. 15 classifies the study content by study field, the study content may also be classified by, for example, multiple-choice questions and fill-in-the-blank questions. For example, multiple-choice questions may have fewer fields to fill in, so electronic media may be recommended. On the other hand, paper media may be recommended for fill-in-the-blank questions.

[0034] <<Modification of the First Embodiment>> Although the above description is an example of recommending either paper or electronic media as the recommended study medium, it is also possible to recommend using both paper and electronic media. For example, it is possible to display the questions on an electronic medium and output the written portion to a paper medium for study. This operation reduces the printing costs of the questions, while using paper for the written portion activates the learner's brain and helps the learner to remember the information.

[0035] As described above, in this embodiment, the host terminal 101 recommends at least one of paper and electronic media as a study medium for showing study content. This operation allows a learner who uses study content to study using the recommended study medium. Therefore, if the recommended study medium is appropriate for the study purpose, the study medium appropriate for the study purpose can be presented.

[0036] In this embodiment, the host terminal 101 may also accept a selection of either a paper medium or an electronic medium. This operation allows the host terminal 101 to provide the selected learning medium.

[0037] In this embodiment, the management server 107 may generate recommended study media information that indicates whether a paper medium or an electronic medium is recommended based on the degree of memory retention required for the study content. This operation allows study media to be presented based on the degree of memory retention, making it possible to present study media that are appropriate for the degree of memory retention required.

[0038] In this embodiment, the management server 107 may generate recommended study medium information indicating whether a paper medium or an electronic medium is recommended based on the study field of the study content. This operation makes it possible to present more appropriate study media according to more specific study objectives, since each study field has its own more appropriate study objective.

[0039] In this embodiment, the management server 107 may generate recommended study medium information that indicates whether a paper medium or an electronic medium is recommended based on the study field of the study content and the answer format for the assignment in the study content. This operation takes into consideration not only the study field but also the answer format, making it possible to study more efficiently.

[0040] In this embodiment, the management server 107 generates recommended study medium information indicating that electronic media is recommended when the answer format is multiple-choice questions. This operation recommends electronic media for multiple-choice questions. Because multiple-choice questions require fewer fields to fill out than paper-based questions, the benefits of reducing printing costs through electronic media outweigh the benefits of using paper media.

[0041] In this embodiment, the management server 107 generates recommended study medium information indicating that paper media is recommended when the answer format is a fill-in format. This operation recommends paper media for fill-in formats. Fill-in formats require more space to fill in than multiple-choice questions, so the benefits of using paper media, which can help students retain their information, are relatively greater than the benefits of using electronic media.

[0042] In this embodiment, the host terminal 101 may recommend at least one of paper media and electronic media based on recommended study media information generated by the management server 107. This operation recommends study media using the recommended study media generated based on the degree of memory retention, thereby enabling memory retention.

[0043] In this embodiment, the host terminal 101 may further include a learning unit that performs learning using electronic media. With this configuration, learning can be performed using the host terminal 101.

[0044] In addition, the present embodiment may further include an image forming device that prints on paper media. With this configuration, it becomes possible to carry out learning using paper media.

[0045] <<Second embodiment>> Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, the management server 107 classifies study content into several study areas, and the administrator of the management server 107 (hereinafter referred to as the administrator as appropriate) predetermines recommended study media for each study area. This configuration makes it possible to notify the host terminal 101 of recommended study media. However, the recommended study media determined by the administrator may be different from the study media that actually have the learning effect. Therefore, the second embodiment assumes that the study content includes answer-based assignments. Under this assumption, the management server 107 collects the answers to the assignments from multiple learners of the study content and information on the study media used by the learners. Then, the average score for each study medium is calculated for the answer results collected from the multiple learners, and the average score for each study medium is displayed on the host terminal 101.

[0046] The second embodiment will be explained starting with the differences from the first embodiment. The configurations of Figures 1 to 7 are the same as those of the first embodiment, so explanations will be omitted. The process in which the host terminal 101 transmits the answer to the question included in the study content to the management server 107 after the learner of the study content answers the question will be explained using Figure 17.

[0047] Figure 17 is a flowchart explaining the answer result transmission process. The process shown in Figure 17 is realized by the CPU 651 of the host terminal 101 and the CPU 551 of the management server 107 working together. Note that some or all of the functions of the steps in Figure 17 may be realized by hardware such as an ASIC or electronic circuit. The symbol "S" in the explanation of each process indicates that it is a step in the flowchart.

[0048] The process shown in FIG. 17 begins when a learner of the study content answers an assignment included in the study content. In S1701, the CPU 651 acquires the learner's answer to the study content. For example, as will be described in detail below with reference to FIG. 19, if studying on the host terminal 101 is selected in S1905 of FIG. 19, the following is assumed. That is, if studying on electronic media is selected, the assignment is displayed on the host terminal 101 and the answers to the assignment are accepted from the host terminal 101. Alternatively, if studying by printing on paper media is selected in S1905, the learner is assumed to write the answers to the assignment on paper and scan it with the image forming apparatus 100. The host terminal 101 can acquire the answers to the assignment by receiving the scan results from the image forming apparatus 100. The CPU 651 advances the process of S1701 to S1702. In S1702, the CPU 651 grades the answer to the assignment obtained in the processing of S1701. For example, optical character recognition technology can be used as a method of grading. Alternatively, an automatic grading system using machine learning can be used as a method of grading. Alternatively, model answers can be prepared in advance in the study content, and the user can compare the answers with the model answers and manually enter the graded results. In S1703, the CPU 651 transmits the graded results and the learning medium information selected by the user in S804 to the management server 107.

[0049] Next, the process of calculating the average score of the scoring results after the management server 107 receives the scoring results will be described with reference to FIG. 18. FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating the process of calculating the average score of the scoring results. The process shown in FIG. 18 is realized by the CPU 651 of the host terminal 101 and the CPU 551 of the management server 107 working together. Note that some or all of the functions of the steps in FIG. 18 may be realized by hardware such as an ASIC or electronic circuit. The symbol "S" in the description of each process indicates that it is a step in the flowchart.

[0050] 18 starts in S1703 when the host terminal 101 transmits the scoring results to the management server 107. In S1801, the CPU 551 receives the scoring results and learning medium information transmitted in the processing of S1703 and stores them in the HDD 554. In S1802, the CPU 551 uses the scoring results and learning medium information stored in the HDD 554 to calculate the average score of the scoring results for each learning medium.

[0051] Next, the process of selecting a learning medium for the downloaded learning content on the host terminal 101 will be described using FIG. 19. FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating the learning medium selection process. The process shown in FIG. 19 is realized by the CPU 651 of the host terminal 101 and the CPU 551 of the management server 107 working together. Note that some or all of the functions of the steps in FIG. 19 may be realized by hardware such as an ASIC or electronic circuit. The symbol "S" in the description of each process indicates that it is a step in the flowchart.

[0052] In the process shown in FIG. 19, steps S1901 and S1902 are equivalent to steps S801 and S802 in FIG. 8, and therefore their description will be omitted. In step S1903, the CPU 651 receives the average scores of the scoring results for each learning medium calculated in step S1802 from the management server 107. The CPU 651 advances the process of step S1903 to step S1904. In step S1904, the CPU 651 displays a screen for selecting a learning medium and the average scores for each learning medium received in step S1902 via a web browser or dedicated application. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of the learning medium selection screen. In FIG. 20, a print confirmation screen including an electronic medium selection icon 2001, a paper medium selection icon 2002, and an average score display field 2003 is displayed. The electronic medium selection icon 2001 and the paper medium selection icon 2002 have the same functions as the electronic medium selection icon 1601 and the paper medium selection icon 1602, and therefore their description will be omitted. In the average score display field 2003, the CPU 651 displays the average score for each study medium received in S1903. For example, in the example of FIG. 20 , the area of ​​the average score display field 2003 below the electronic medium selection icon 2001 displays "67 points" as the average score when using electronic media. On the other hand, the area of ​​the average score display field 2003 below the paper medium selection icon 2002 displays "85 points" as the average score when using paper media. In other words, the management server 107 generates recommended study medium information based on the answer format (average score, etc.) for the assignments in the study content. The CPU 651 advances the process of S1904 to S1905. The process of S1905 is equivalent to the process of S805, and therefore its description will be omitted.

[0053] As described above, in this embodiment, the host terminal 101 displays a first average value of the results of multiple answers to multiple assignments included in the study content, using paper media, and a second average value of the results of answers to multiple assignments using electronic media. Furthermore, the host terminal 101 displays the first and second average values ​​and prompts the user to select at least one of the paper media and the electronic media. This operation allows the user to select at least one of the paper media and the electronic media based on the answers to the assignments. Therefore, it becomes possible to select a study medium that will produce better results.

[0054] In addition, the present embodiment may further include an image forming device that scans the results of paper printing. With this configuration, the results of paper printing can be digitized, allowing the host terminal 101 to calculate the first average value.

[0055] <<Modification of the second embodiment>> In this embodiment, an example of displaying the average score of each assignment on the learning medium selection screen has been described, but this is not limiting. The percentage of correct answers for each assignment may also be displayed on the learning medium selection screen. Here, the percentage of correct answers for each assignment is the ratio of those who answered the assignment to all those who answered the assignment. This allows for different learning media for each assignment. Alternatively, the average percentage of correct answers for each assignment calculated using the percentage of correct answers for each assignment may be displayed on the learning medium selection screen. Alternatively, even within the same learning field, a weighted average may be used in which tasks requiring memory consolidation and tasks not requiring memory consolidation are weighted differently. For example, consider a case in which tasks requiring memory consolidation are weighted more heavily than tasks not requiring memory consolidation. In this case, even if the number of tasks requiring memory consolidation is smaller than the number of tasks not requiring memory consolidation, the results of the tasks requiring memory consolidation can be emphasized, thereby making it possible to provide appropriate learning medium judgment information.

[0056] <<Third Embodiment>> Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the first and second embodiments, information for selecting a study medium for study content is presented to the user, and an example was described in which the user can select the study medium. However, if the user selects a paper medium, the print settings may not be appropriate for the study content. For example, consider a case in which a user normally prints using a 4-in-1 setting to save on the number of sheets of plain paper used. When studying a geometry problem, the user may find the geometry difficult to see with the 4-in-1 setting, so they reset to 1-in-1 and reprint. Therefore, in this embodiment, an example will be described in which recommended print settings are presented based on the content of the study content when the user selects paper medium for study.

[0057] The third embodiment will be described starting with the differences from the first and second embodiments. Since Figures 1 to 7 have the same configuration as the first and second embodiments, their description will be omitted. In the second embodiment, when the study medium for the study content downloaded on the host terminal 101 is selected, if a paper medium is selected, the process of proposing print settings suitable for the study content will be described using Figure 21.

[0058] Fig. 21 is a flowchart illustrating the recommended print setting process for paper media. The process shown in Fig. 21 is realized by the CPU 651 of the host terminal 101 and the CPU 551 of the management server 107 working together. Note that some or all of the functions of the steps in Fig. 21 may be realized by hardware such as an ASIC or electronic circuit. The symbol "S" in the description of each process indicates that it is a step in the flowchart.

[0059] In the process shown in FIG. 21, steps S2101 and S2102 are equivalent to steps S801 and S802 in FIG. 8, and therefore their description will be omitted. In step S2103, the CPU 651 receives learning medium determination information for the user to determine the learning medium described in step S803 or S1903. That is, the learning medium determination information is recommended learning medium information or the average score of the assignment's grading results. Specifically, the CPU 651 acquires information necessary for the next process in step S2104. When displaying a learning medium selection screen including the recommended comment field 1603, the CPU 651 only needs to acquire recommended learning medium information to be displayed in the recommended comment field 1603. Alternatively, when displaying a print confirmation screen including the average score display field 2003, the CPU 651 only needs to acquire information on the average score of the grading results corresponding to the assignment's answer results for each learning medium to be displayed in the average score display field 2003. The CPU 651 advances the process of step S2103 to step S2104. At S2104, the CPU 651 displays the learning medium selection screen described at S804 or S1904 for selecting a learning medium. In other words, the management server 107 generates recommended learning medium information based on the learning field of the learning content and the answer format for the assignments in the learning content. The CPU 651 advances the process of S2104 to S2105. At S2105, the CPU 651 determines whether paper learning was selected at S2104. If paper learning was selected at S2104, at S2106, the CPU 651 receives print settings suitable for the downloaded learning content from the management server 107. The print settings suitable for the learning content are described in detail in FIG. 22. FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of recommended print settings for paper media for each learning field. In other words, in FIG. 22, print settings suitable for printing learning content are associated with each learning field. The recommended print settings in FIG. 22 are the settings obtained by the process of step 2106. That is, the host terminal 101 receives the recommended print settings from the management server 107, and the host terminal 101 acquires the recommended print settings from the management server 107. The management server 107 transmits to the host terminal 101 print settings suitable for printing the learning content requested by the host terminal 101, based on the recommended print settings in Fig. 22 .The recommended print settings in FIG. 22 may be determined by an administrator, who may categorize study content into several learning areas and determine recommended print settings for each learning area. For example, the 4-in-1 setting narrows the space available for learners to write, making it difficult for them to write. Therefore, the 4-in-1 setting is not suitable for kanji dictation. Alternatively, the double-sided printing setting may result in kanji characters written with force being transferred to the back side. Therefore, the 1-in-1 setting or single-sided printing is recommended for kanji dictation. Similarly, it is expected that math geometry problems will be difficult for learners to read if printed small. Therefore, the 1-in-1 setting is recommended for math geometry problems. Furthermore, it is expected that math problems in general will not require heavy writing pressure, and problems rarely span two pages. Therefore, double-sided printing is recommended for math problems in general. On the other hand, if paper-based learning was not selected in S2104, the CPU 651 skips S2106 and proceeds to S2107. In S2107, the CPU 651 requests output of the study content to the study medium selected in S2103. For example, if printing on paper media for study is selected, the CPU 651 instructs the image forming apparatus 100 to print using the print settings received in S2106, thereby completing the series of steps. Alternatively, if learning on the host terminal 101 is selected in S2104, the CPU 651 displays the study content on the host terminal 101, thereby completing the series of steps.

[0060] As described above, in this embodiment, when a paper medium is selected as the study medium, the host terminal 101 obtains from the management server 107 the recommended print settings set for each study field of the study content. This operation makes it possible to obtain print settings suitable for each study field. This makes it possible to study using paper media in a state that is more suited to the study objectives.

[0061] <<Other embodiments>> The above description describes an example in which at least one of paper and electronic media is used as the recommended learning medium, but this is not limiting. For example, during a streaming lecture, lecture materials may be displayed separately on electronic media, and if writing answers to questions is required, the questions and answer fields may be output on paper. Also, in the above description, a learning medium selection screen is displayed in S804, S1904, etc., allowing the user to select a learning medium, but this is not limiting. For example, the host device may automatically (without user confirmation) determine the learning medium based on the learning medium determination information received, and output learning content using that learning medium.

[0062] Furthermore, in the above explanation, an example in which the management server 107 generates recommended learning medium information has been described, but this is not limiting. For example, the host terminal 101 may obtain recommended learning medium information in advance when signing a contract to use learning content. Furthermore, recommended learning medium information may be managed by a server other than the management server 107. In this way, by deploying multiple servers for different purposes, load distribution is also possible. Note that, as in the second embodiment, when the management server 107 collects usage data such as the results of grading assignments, the recommended learning medium information is generated based on the collected usage data. In such a use case, it is preferable from the perspective of operational management of learning content to have the management server 107 store recommended learning medium information.

[0063] The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0064] The disclosure of the present embodiment includes configurations typified by the following information processing device, information processing method, and program.

[0065] <Configuration 1> An information processing system including an external server and a host terminal capable of communicating various information with the external server, the external server has a transmission means for transmitting study content to the host terminal; The host terminal a receiving means for receiving the study content from the external server; a determining means for determining a learning medium in which the learning content should be presented; An information processing system comprising:

[0066] <Configuration 2> 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the host terminal further comprises a recommendation unit that recommends the determined learning medium as a learning medium for which the learning content should be presented.

[0067] <Configuration 3> 3. The information processing system according to configuration 2, wherein the host terminal further comprises a receiving unit that receives a decision as to whether or not to use the learning medium recommended by the recommending unit.

[0068] <Configuration 4> The determining means determines either a paper medium or an electronic medium as the learning medium; 4. The information processing system according to claim 3, wherein the recommendation unit recommends either the paper medium or the electronic medium determined by the determination unit.

[0069] <Configuration 5> The information processing system described in configuration 4 is characterized in that the external server generates recommended learning medium information indicating that either the paper medium or the electronic medium is recommended based on the degree of memory retention required for the learning content.

[0070] <Configuration 6> The information processing system according to configuration 5, wherein the external server generates the recommended learning medium information based on the learning field of the learning content.

[0071] <Configuration 7> The information processing system described in configuration 5 is characterized in that the external server generates the recommended learning medium information based on the learning field of the learning content and the answer format for the assignments in the learning content.

[0072] <Configuration 8> The information processing system described in configuration 7, characterized in that the external server generates the recommended learning medium information indicating that the electronic medium is recommended when the answer format is a multiple-choice question format.

[0073] <Configuration 9> The information processing system described in configuration 7, characterized in that the external server generates the recommended learning medium information indicating that the paper medium is recommended when the answer format is a fill-in format.

[0074] <Configuration 10> The information processing system of configuration 5, wherein the host terminal recommends at least one of the paper medium and the electronic medium based on the recommended learning medium information generated by the external server.

[0075] <Configuration 11> 11. The information processing system according to configuration 10, wherein the host terminal further comprises learning means for performing learning using the electronic medium.

[0076] <Configuration 12> 11. The information processing system according to configuration 10, further comprising an image forming device that prints on the paper medium.

[0077] <Configuration 13> The host terminal a display means for displaying a first average value of the results of a plurality of answers to a plurality of tasks included in the learning content obtained using the paper medium and a second average value of the results of a plurality of answers to a plurality of tasks included in the learning content obtained using the electronic medium; The information processing system according to configuration 4, further comprising a selection means for displaying the first average value and the second average value by the display means and selecting at least one of the paper medium and the electronic medium.

[0078] <Configuration 14> 14. The information processing system according to claim 13, further comprising an image forming device that scans the results of the paper medium.

[0079] <Configuration 15> The information processing system described in configuration 11 or 12, characterized in that when the paper medium is selected as the learning medium, the host terminal obtains recommended print settings set for each learning field of the learning content from the external server.

[0080] <Configuration 16> An information processing method for controlling a host terminal capable of communicating various information with an external server, a receiving step of receiving study content from the external server; a recommendation step of recommending at least one of a paper medium and an electronic medium as a study medium showing the study content; An information processing method comprising:

[0081] <Configuration 17> 17. A program for causing a computer to execute each step of the information processing method according to claim 16. [Explanation of symbols]

[0082] 100 Image forming device 101 Host Terminal 105 Router-integrated ONU 106 Internet 107 Management Server

Claims

1. An information processing system including an external server and a host terminal capable of communicating various information with the external server, the external server has a transmission means for transmitting study content to the host terminal; The host terminal a receiving means for receiving the study content from the external server; a determining means for determining a learning medium in which the learning content should be presented; An information processing system comprising:

2. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the host terminal further comprises a recommendation unit that recommends the determined learning medium as a learning medium for which the learning content should be presented.

3. 3. The information processing system according to claim 2, wherein the host terminal further comprises a receiving unit that receives a decision as to whether or not to use the learning medium recommended by the recommending unit.

4. The determining means determines either a paper medium or an electronic medium as the learning medium; 4. The information processing system according to claim 3, wherein the recommendation unit recommends either the paper medium or the electronic medium determined by the determination unit.

5. The information processing system described in claim 4, characterized in that the external server generates recommended learning medium information indicating that either the paper medium or the electronic medium is recommended based on the degree of memory retention required for the learning content.

6. The information processing system according to claim 5 , wherein the external server generates the recommended study medium information based on the study field of the study content.

7. The information processing system according to claim 5, characterized in that the external server generates the recommended learning medium information based on the learning field of the learning content and the answer format for the assignments in the learning content.

8. 8. The information processing system according to claim 7, wherein the external server generates the recommended learning medium information indicating that the electronic medium is recommended when the answer format is a multiple-choice question format.

9. The information processing system according to claim 7 , wherein the external server generates the recommended study medium information indicating that the paper medium is recommended when the answer format is a fill-in format.

10. 6. The information processing system according to claim 5, wherein the host terminal recommends at least one of the paper medium and the electronic medium based on the recommended study medium information generated by the external server.

11. 11. The information processing system according to claim 10, wherein said host terminal further comprises learning means for performing learning using said electronic medium.

12. 11. The information processing system according to claim 10, further comprising an image forming device that prints the paper medium.

13. The host terminal a display means for displaying a first average value of the results of a plurality of answers to a plurality of tasks included in the learning content obtained using the paper medium and a second average value of the results of a plurality of answers to a plurality of tasks included in the learning content obtained using the electronic medium; 5. The information processing system according to claim 4, further comprising a selection means for displaying the first average value and the second average value using the display means and selecting at least one of the paper medium and the electronic medium.

14. 14. The information processing system according to claim 13, further comprising an image forming device that scans the results of the printing performed on the paper medium.

15. The information processing system described in claim 11 or 12, characterized in that when the paper medium is selected as the learning medium, the host terminal obtains recommended print settings set for each learning field of the learning content from the external server.

16. An information processing method for controlling a host terminal capable of communicating various information with an external server, a receiving step of receiving study content from the external server; a recommendation step of recommending at least one of a paper medium and an electronic medium as a study medium showing the study content; An information processing method comprising:

17. A program for causing a computer to execute each step of the information processing method according to claim 16.

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