The preferred computer apparatus and methods use computer technology in a
unique way to motivate children to devote more time to educational and
cultural enrichment, and encourages them to explore the appropriateness
of various educational institutions that they may apply to for admission.
In the preferred embodiment, educational material is provided at a
child's local computer under control of a central computer system
connected to it over a computer network. On completing a particular
educational task, the child is rewarded with a certain number of points.
Points that the child accumulates are stored centrally, and at least some
of the points can be redeemed towards the purchase of goods and services
offered through the system of the preferred embodiment by its commercial
participants. The purchasing transactions are also administered by the
central computer. Parents, preferably, use the system to support their
children's purchasing activity financially and to select content
available for presentation to the child. Users, both children and
parents, can explore entrance requirements to colleges, universities, and
other institutions, and school administrators can use the system to
identify and locate appropriate applicants. The disclosed systems and
methods can be used for purposes unrelated to education of children. For
example, the disclosed system also supports limited on-line interaction
with various products and services, rewarding users with discounts on
those products and services.
