Software Keyboard Character Input Restriction for Learning Motivation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing character input methods for learning applications, such as word learning tests, face challenges in maintaining user motivation due to either limited choice selection methods that lack variety or full discretionary input which can lead to low comprehension and retention, especially at the beginning of learning.

Innovation Solution

A character input method where a software keyboard is configured to restrict inputtable characters based on the correct answer string, displaying only the first character and at least one second character as inputtable while keeping the third character non-inputtable, enhancing user motivation and retention by limiting choices to correct answers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If full discretionary input using a software keyboard is used, then learning adaptable to various kinds of tests is performed, but it is difficult to maintain user motivation at the beginning of learning when comprehension and retention are low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelearning adaptabilityVSAvoiduser motivation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The keyboard is segmented to display only a limited number of characters (first character and at least one second character) as inputtable, while other characters are marked as non-inputtable. This segmentation reduces the visual complexity and cognitive load for users at the beginning of learning, making it easier to maintain motivation while still providing sufficient learning adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different characters on the keyboard are assigned different inputtable statuses based on their relevance to the current learning context. The first character (correct answer) and selected second characters are marked as inputtable with distinct visual properties, while other characters are marked as non-inputtable. This local differentiation guides user attention to relevant characters, maintaining motivation while preserving learning versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Ease of operation

If a small number of choices are provided by selection method, then user motivation is easily maintained, but there are not so many tests of this format in actual educational institutions or qualifying examinations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser motivationVSAvoidtest format variety
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The keyboard dynamically adjusts the set of inputtable characters based on the learning progress and test requirements. Initially, only a small number of characters are inputtable to maintain motivation. As learning progresses, more characters become inputtable, providing adaptability to various test formats while maintaining user engagement throughout the learning process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12057031B2Character input method, information processing apparatus, and information processing system
Publication Date: 2024.08.06 CASIO COMPUTER CO LTD
  • US12057031B2 patent drawing
  • US12057031B2 patent drawing
  • US12057031B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A character input method according to the present disclosure, a computer is configured to execute a process of causing, in a case where each of characters of an answer character string corresponding to a correct-answer character string is input by a user by using a plurality of keys included in a keyboard layout displayed on a display, the display to display the keyboard layout, in a state indicating that a first character of the correct-answer character string, and at least one second character other than the first character, are inputtable, and a third character other than the first character and the second character is non-inputtable, the first character corresponding to an input character position of the answer character string.