Patent Publication Number: US-2023140607-A1

Title: Electronic device that manages compliance by a participant during a video communication session

Description:
BACKROUND 
     1. Technical Field 
     The present disclosure relates generally to electronic devices that support and/or enable video communication sessions with second communication device(s), and more particularly to electronic devices that can visually recognize characteristics of a person in an image stream produced during a video communication session. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     Electronic devices such as mobile phones, network servers, desktop workstations, laptops, and tablets are often used to participate in or to enable online human communication. So as to simulate an in-person conversation, meeting, or lecture, each participant in a video communication session generally positions themself within the field of view of the local camera and within detection range of the microphone. The respective image and audio streams are communicated to the video communication session for presentation by one or more second electronic devices. Recent trends are for increased use of video communications in a wide range of settings, including homes and public spaces. 
     Video communication sessions are increasing used for academic instruction and training to replace the traditional live or in-person sessions. With traditional in-person meetings/sessions, the host, such as a teacher or employer, can readily determine who attends the session and who is paying attention during the session. However, in a large video communication session, it is difficult and/or impossible for a host to monitor a gallery of video feeds from each participant to manually manage attendance, participation, and compliance with policies applicable the online participants. Training may be unsuccessful at least in part due to failure to track and enforce proper participation and conduct during a one-way (playback) or two-way (live) video communication session. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The description of the illustrative embodiments can be read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements illustrated in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements are exaggerated relative to other elements. Embodiments incorporating teachings of the present disclosure are shown and described with respect to the figures presented herein, in which: 
         FIG.  1    depicts a functional block diagram of a communication environment including a communication device having components that automatically manage compliance by a participant during a video communication session, and within which the features of the present disclosure are advantageously implemented, according to one or more embodiments; 
         FIG.  2    depicts a functional block diagram of a network communication device that facilitates a video communication session and automatically manages compliance by a participant, according to one or more embodiments; 
         FIG.  3    depicts a communication environment of host/teacher communication device, network communication device, and participant communication device during a video communication session, according to one or more embodiments; 
         FIG.  4    depicts user interface presented compliance alerts on a display device of a communication device during the video communication session, according to one or more embodiments; 
         FIGS.  5 A -  5 C  (collectively  FIG.  5   ) depict a flow diagram of a method performed by a host or network communication device for managing compliance of a participant using a second communication device during a video communication session, according to one or more embodiments; 
         FIG.  6    depicts a flow diagram of a method for managing compliance based on gaze direction of a participant who uses a communication device, according to one or more embodiments; 
         FIGS.  7 A -  7 C  (collectively  FIG.  7   ) depict a flow diagram of a method for managing compliance with a policy requiring limited background noise, live image stream, completion of a visual acuity test, and adequate illumination of a participant who uses a communication device, according to one or more embodiments; and 
         FIGS.  8 A-  8 B  (collectively  FIG.  8   ) depict a flow diagram of a method for automatically creating quizzes based on recent speech or written content presented to a participant to assess participant attentiveness, according to one or more embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device, a computer program product, and a method are provided that automatically manages compliance by a participant during a video communication session. The electronic device includes at least one network interface that communicatively connects the electronic device over a network to one or more second electronic devices during a video communication session. A controller of the electronic device is communicatively coupled to the at least one network interface. The controller receives at least one image stream. Each image stream is produced respectively by an image capturing device of a corresponding second electronic device. The controller identifies at least one person within the at least one image stream. The controller produces attendance data by comparing the at least one person that is identified with a roster of at least one person expected to join the video communication session. The controller determines participation data related to an amount of time that the at least one person is gazing toward the image capturing device of the corresponding second electronic device. The controller communicates, to a host output device, the attendance data and the participation data of the at least one person during the video communication session. 
     According to one aspect, managing compliance by a participant includes reporting on whether a participant is paying attention to the video communication session. In one or more embodiments, attentiveness may be based on an amount of time that the participant gazes toward a display device that is presenting visual content for the video communication session. In one or more embodiments, compliance can include the participant wearing proper garments and attire, use of required articles by the participant, and establishing or being in an environment conducive to receiving instruction and training. 
     In the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, specific exemplary embodiments in which the various aspects of the disclosure may be practiced are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that logical, architectural, programmatic, mechanical, electrical, and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof. Within the descriptions of the different views of the figures, similar elements are provided similar names and reference numerals as those of the previous figure(s). The specific numerals assigned to the elements are provided solely to aid in the description and are not meant to imply any limitations (structural or functional or otherwise) on the described embodiment. It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements illustrated in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements are exaggerated relative to other elements. 
     It is understood that the use of specific component, device and/or parameter names, such as those of the executing utility, logic, and/or firmware described herein, are for example only and not meant to imply any limitations on the described embodiments. The embodiments may thus be described with different nomenclature and/or terminology utilized to describe the components, devices, parameters, methods and/or functions herein, without limitation. References to any specific protocol or proprietary name in describing one or more elements, features or concepts of the embodiments are provided solely as examples of one implementation, and such references do not limit the extension of the claimed embodiments to embodiments in which different element, feature, protocol, or concept names are utilized. Thus, each term utilized herein is to be given its broadest interpretation given the context in which that term is utilized. 
     As further described below, implementation of the functional features of the disclosure described herein is provided within processing devices and/or structures and can involve use of a combination of hardware, firmware, as well as several software-level constructs (e.g., program code and/or program instructions and/or pseudo-code) that execute to provide a specific utility for the device or a specific functional logic. The presented figures illustrate both hardware components and software and/or logic components. 
     Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the hardware components and basic configurations depicted in the figures may vary. The illustrative components are not intended to be exhaustive, but rather are representative to highlight essential components that are utilized to implement aspects of the described embodiments. For example, other devices/components may be used in addition to or in place of the hardware and/or firmware depicted. The depicted example is not meant to imply architectural or other limitations with respect to the presently described embodiments and/or the general invention. The description of the illustrative embodiments can be read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. Embodiments incorporating teachings of the present disclosure are shown and described with respect to the figures presented herein. 
       FIG.  1    depicts a functional block diagram of an electronic device, specifically communication device  100 , within an operating environment and within which several of the features of the present disclosure are advantageously implemented. Referring now to the specific component makeup and the associated functionality of communication device  100 . In one or more embodiments, communication device  100  has device memory  102 , communication subsystem  104 , data storage subsystem  106 , and input/output (I/O) subsystem  108 . Device memory  102  and each subsystem ( 104 ,  106 , and  108 ) are managed by controller  110 . Device memory  102  includes program code for applications, such as video conference application  114 , and other application(s)  116 . Device memory  102  further includes operating system (OS)  117 , firmware interface  118 , such as basic input/output system (BIOS) or Uniform Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI), and firmware  119 . 
     Controller  110  includes processor subsystem  120  that executes program code to provide operating functionality of communication device  100  that automatically detects compliance by visually identifying objects in an image stream and generates alerts in response to noncompliance. The software and/or firmware modules have varying functionality when their corresponding program code is executed by processor subsystem  120  or secondary processing devices within communication device  100 . Processor subsystem  120  of controller  110  can execute program code of video conference application  114 , and other applications  116  to configure communication device  100  to perform specific functions. Device memory  102  can include data  121  used by the applications. 
     I/O subsystem  108  includes user interface components such as vibration output device  128 , light output device  129 , image capturing devices  130   a  -  130   b , microphone  132 , display device  133 , touch/haptic controls  134 , and audio output device(s)  136 . In an example, image capturing devices  130   a  -  130   b  are front and back cameras. In another example, image capturing devices  130   a  -  130   b  are on the same side but have different lenses such as two different ones of telephoto, wide angle, macro, or general purpose lenses. I/O subsystem  108  also includes I/O controller  137 . I/O controller  137  connects to internal devices  138 , which are internal to housing  139 , and to peripheral devices  140 , such as external speakers, which are external to housing  139  of communication device  100 . Internal devices  138  include computing, storage, communication, or sensing components depicted within housing  139 . I/O controller  137  supports the necessary configuration of connectors, electrical power, communication protocols, and data buffering to act as an interface between internal devices  138  and peripheral devices  140  and other components of communication device  100  that use a different configuration for inputs and outputs. 
     Communication device  100  is managed by controller  110 , which is communicatively coupled to image capturing devices  130   a  -  130   b  and to at least one user interface device  142 , such as at least one microphone  132 . Image capturing device  130   a  and user interface device  142  allows a participant using communication device  100  to be an active participant in a video communication session with a second participant using a corresponding one of second communication device  144   a  -  144   d  that can be similarly configured and/or provide similar functionality as communication device  100 . Controller  110  is also communicatively coupled to at least one display device  133  that presents user interface  146  for the video communication session. Controller  110  executes video conference application  114  stored in device memory  102  to configure communication device  100  to enable communication with second communication device(s)  144   a  -  144   d  in the video communication session. It is appreciated that second communication device  144   a  -  144   d  can be identically or similarly equipped with components and functionality described for communication device  100 . According to aspects of the present disclosure, communication device  100  can be communicatively coupled to one or more of image capturing devices (“ICC”)  130   c  -  130   e  respectively provided for example by communication devices  144   c / 144   d  and peripheral device  140 . 
     Each of communication device  100  and second communication devices  144   a  -  144   d  can be one of a host of different types of devices, including but not limited to, a mobile cellular phone, satellite phone, or smart-phone, a laptop, a net-book, an ultra-book, a networked smart watch or networked sports/exercise watch, and/or a tablet computing device or similar device that can include wireless and/or wired communication functionality. As an electronic device supporting wireless communication, communication device  100  can be utilized as, and also be referred to as, a system, device, subscriber unit, subscriber station, mobile station (MS), mobile, mobile device, remote station, remote terminal, user terminal, terminal, user agent, user device, a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) phone, a wireless local loop (WLL) station, a personal digital assistant (PDA), computer workstation, a handheld device having wireless connection capability, a computing device, or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem. Within the description of the remaining figures, references to similar components presented in a previous figure are provided the same reference numbers across the different figures. Where the named component is presented with different features or functionality, a different reference numeral or a subscripted reference numeral is provided (e.g.,  100   a  in place of  100 ). 
     Referring now to the communication components and features of communication device  100 . Communication subsystem  104  of communication device  100  enables wireless communication with external communication system  148 . Communication subsystem  104  includes antenna subsystem  150  having lower band antennas  151   a  -  151   m  and higher band antenna arrays  152   a  -  152   n  that can be attached in/at different portions of housing  139 . Communication subsystem  104  includes radio frequency (RF) front end  153  and communication module  154 . RF front end  153  includes transceiver(s)  155 , which includes transmitter(s)  156  and receiver(s)  157 . RF front end  153  further includes modem(s)  158 . RF front end  153  includes antenna feed/source networks  159 , antenna switch network  160 , antenna impedance sensor(s)  161 , and antenna matching network(s)  162 . Communication module  154  of communication subsystem  104  includes baseband processor  163  that communicates with controller  110  and RF front end  153 . Baseband processor  163  operates in a baseband frequency range to encode data for transmission and decode received data, according to a communication protocol. Modem(s)  158  modulate baseband encoded data from communication module  154  onto a carrier signal to provide a transmit signal that is amplified by transmitter(s)  156 . Modem(s)  158  demodulates each signal received from external communication system  148  using by antenna subsystem  150 . The received signal is amplified and filtered by receiver(s)  157 , which demodulate received encoded data from a received carrier signal. Antenna feed/source networks  159  transmits or receives from particular portions of antenna subsystem  150  and can adjust a phase between particular portions of antenna subsystem  150 . Antenna switch network  160  can connect particular combinations of antennas ( 151   a  -  151   m ,  152   a  -  152   n ) to transceiver(s)  155 . Controller  110  can monitor changes in antenna impedance detected by antenna impedance sensor(s)  161  for determining portions of antenna subsystem  150  that are blocked. Antenna matching network(s)  162  are connected to particular lower band antennas  151   a  -  151   m  to tune impedance respectively of lower band antennas  151   a  -  151   m  to match impedance of transceiver(s)  155 . Antenna matching network(s)  162  can also be used to detune the impedance of lower band antennas  151   a  -  151   m  to not match the impedance of transceiver(s)  155  to electromagnetically isolate a particular antenna. 
     In one or more embodiments, controller  110 , via communication subsystem  104 , performs multiple types of over-the-air (OTA) communication with network nodes  164  of external communication system  148 . Particular network nodes  164  can be part of communication networks  165  of public land mobile networks (PLMNs) that provide connections to plain old telephone systems (POTS)  166  for voice calls and wide area networks (WANs)  167  for data sessions. WANs  167  can include Internet and other data networks to communication device  100  and second communication devices 144a/144b. The particular network nodes  164  can be cellular “cells”, base nodes, or base stations  168  that support cellular OTA communication using RAT as part of a radio access network (RAN). Unlike earlier generations of cellular services, where voice and data were handled using different RATs, both are now integrated with voice being considered one kind of data communication. Conventionally, broadband, packet-based transmission of text, digitized voice, video, and multimedia communication are provided using Fourth generation (4G) RAT of evolved UTMS radio access (E-UTRA), referred to a Long Term Evolved (LTE), although some cellular data service is still being provided by third generation (3G) Universal Mobile Telecommunications Service (UMTS). A fifth generation (5G) RAT, referred to as fifth generation new radio (5GNR), is being deployed to at least augment capabilities of 4G LTE with a yet higher capability of data transfer. Development continues for what will be six generation (6G) RATs and more advanced RATs. With wireless frequency spectrum seemingly ever expanding, additional antennas ( 151   a  -  151   m ,  152   a  -  152   n ) are incorporated to support newer radio access technologies (RATs) and multi band operation. Dual low band (2L) or quad low band (4L) multiple input multiple output (MIMO) operation dictates multiple antennas communicate on multiple bands simultaneously. 
     In one or more embodiments, network nodes  164  can be access node(s)  169  that support wireless OTA communication. Communication subsystem  104  can receive OTA communication from location services such as provided by global positioning system (GPS) satellites  170 . Communication subsystem  104  communicates via OTA communication channel(s)  172   a  with base stations  168 . Communication subsystem  104  communicates via wireless communication channel(s)  172   b  with access node(s)  169 . In one or more particular embodiments, access node(s)  169  supports communication using one or more IEEE 802.11 wireless local area network (WLAN) protocols. Wi-Fi™ is a family of wireless network protocols, based on the IEEE 802.11 family of standards, which are commonly used between user devices and network devices that provide Internet access. In one or more particular embodiments, communication subsystem  104  communicates with one or more locally networked devices  173  via wired or wireless link  172   c  provided by access node(s)  169 . Communication subsystem  104  receives downlink broadcast channel(s)  172   d  from GPS satellites  170  to obtain geospatial location information. 
     In one or more embodiments, controller  110 , via communication subsystem  104 , performs multiple types of OTA communication with local communication system  174 . In one or more embodiments, local communication system  174  includes wireless headset  175  and smart watch  176  that are coupled to communication device  100  to form a personal access network (PAN). Communication subsystem  104  communicates via low power wireless communication channel(s)  172   e  with wireless headset  175 . Communication subsystem  104  communicates via second low power wireless communication channel(s)  172   f , such as Bluetooth, with smart watch  176  such as used by person  123   a . In one or more particular embodiments, communication subsystem  104  communicates with second communication device(s)  144   c  via wireless link  172   g  to form an ad hoc network. 
     Data storage subsystem  106  of communication device  100  includes data storage device(s)  179 . Controller  110  is communicatively connected, via system interlink  180 , to data storage device(s)  179 . Data storage subsystem  106  provides applications, program code, and stored data on nonvolatile storage that is accessible by controller  110 . For example, data storage subsystem  106  can provide a selection of applications and computer data such as video conference application  114  and other application(s)  116  that use communication services. These applications can be loaded into device memory  102  for execution by controller  110 . In one or more embodiments, data storage device(s)  179  can include hard disk drives (HDDs), optical disk drives, and/or solid-state drives (SSDs), etc. Data storage subsystem  106  of communication device  100  can include removable storage device(s) (RSD(s))  181 , which is received in RSD interface  182 . Controller  110  is communicatively connected to RSD  181 , via system interlink  180  and RSD interface  182 . In one or more embodiments, RSD  181  is a non-transitory computer program product or computer readable storage device. Controller  110  can access RSD  181  or data storage device(s)  179  to provision communication device  100  with program code, such as code for video conference application  114  and other application(s)  116 . 
     In one or more embodiments, I/O subsystem  108  includes network interface controller (NIC or “network interface”)  185  with a network connection (NC)  186  on housing  139 . Network cable  187  connects NC  186  to wired area network  188 . NIC  185  can be referred to as a “network interface” that can support one or more network communication protocols. Wired area network  188  can be a local area network (LAN), a campus area network (CAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), or a wide area network (WAN). For example, NC  186  can be an Ethernet connection. Second communication devices  144   d  is communicatively coupled to wired area network  188 . In one or more embodiments, second communication devices  144   d  includes image capturing device (ICD)  130   d  that produces image stream  193   d . 
     Controller  110  manages, and in some instances directly controls, the various functions and/or operations of communication device  100 . These functions and/or operations include, but are not limited to including, application data processing, communication with second communication devices, navigation tasks, image processing, and signal processing. In one or more alternate embodiments, communication device  100  may use hardware component equivalents for application data processing and signal processing. For example, communication device  100  may use special purpose hardware, dedicated processors, general purpose computers, microprocessor-based computers, micro-controllers, optical computers, analog computers, dedicated processors and/or dedicated hard-wired logic. 
     Controller  110  includes processor subsystem  120 , which includes one or more central processing units (CPUs), depicted as data processor  189 . Processor subsystem  120  can include one or more digital signal processors  190  that are integrated with data processor  189 . Processor subsystem  120  can include other processors that are communicatively coupled to data processor  189 , such as baseband processor  163  of communication module  154 . In one or embodiments that are not depicted, controller  110  can further include distributed processing and control components that are external to housing  139  or grouped with other components, such as I/O subsystem  108 . Data processor  189  is communicatively coupled, via system interlink  180 , to device memory  102 . In one or more embodiments, controller  110  of communication device  100  is communicatively coupled via system interlink  180  to communication subsystem  104 , data storage subsystem  106 , and I/O subsystem  108 . 
     System interlink  180  represents internal components that facilitate internal communication by way of one or more shared or dedicated internal communication links, such as internal serial or parallel buses. As utilized herein, the term “communicatively coupled” means that information signals are transmissible through various interconnections, including wired and/or wireless links, between the components. The interconnections between the components can be direct interconnections that include conductive transmission media or may be indirect interconnections that include one or more intermediate electrical components. Although certain direct interconnections (system interlink  180 ) are illustrated in  FIG.  1   , it is to be understood that more, fewer, or different interconnections may be present in other embodiments. 
     According to one aspect, communication device  100  can function as a content-discerning “transmitting device” that operates as a host or presenter, providing one of image streams  193   a  -  193   d  to communicate to one or more second communication devices  144   a  -  144   b  that function as “receiving device(s)” for remote participants. The multiple image streams 193a-193d can originate from different image capturing devices. In an example, image capturing devices  130   a  -  130   b  of communication device  100  can provide multiple image streams  193   a  -  193   b , respectively. In another example, at least one of second communication devices  144   c  -  144   d  is available locally to communication device  100  to provide a respective image streams  193   c  -  193   d  to controller  110 . In an additional example, peripheral device  140  has image capturing device  130   e  that provides image stream  193   e  to controller  110 . Controller  110  configures communication device  100  and the communicatively connected one or more second communication devices  144   c  -  144   e  and peripheral device  140  to perform functionality described herein by visually identifying/determining compliance by participant  123  captured in one image stream  193   a  -  193   e . Image stream  193   a  -  193   e  may be local or remote to communication device  100 . According to one embodiment, controller  110  executes video conference application  114 , stored in a computer readable medium such as device memory  102 , to visually detect compliance with policies by participant  123  using communication device  100  or one of second communication devices  144   a  -  144   d . In one or more embodiments, compliance is defined using a visual metric that has a positive correlation with a desired objective. In an example, having eye gaze toward content visually presented to a person is an incomplete metric for comprehension and engagement. A person may absorb content quickly with less gazing toward displayed content. A person may focus on verbal content during portions of the video communication session with eye gaze being a less effective metric for measuring active listening. Conversely, a person may stare intently at displayed content yet be daydreaming or otherwise mentally inattentive to the visually presented content. Compliance can thus be measuring a physical attribute or characteristic that correlates, but does not equate, to attentiveness, participation, engagement, and/or comprehension. 
       FIG.  2    depicts a functional block diagram of a wired communication environment including communication device  100   a  having network server component that facilitates a video communication session and automatically manages compliance by a participant, and within which the features of the present disclosure are advantageously implemented. In one or more embodiments, communication device  100   a  can have similar or identical components to communication device  100  with certain components unused or removed to enable communication device  100   a  to function as a network server. In one or more embodiment, communication device  100   a  is purpose assembled as a network server having controller  110  that manages device memory  102 , data storage subsystem  106 , and NIC  185 . Management console  196  can periodically communicatively connect to communication device  100   a  via wired area network  188  to configure program code such as video conference application  114  and data  121 . Controller  110  executes video conference application  114  to configure communication device  100   a  to (i) facilitate one or more communication sessions for second communication devices  144  and (ii) monitor compliance. 
       FIG.  3    depicts communication environment  301  that manages compliance during a video communication session conducted across network  302 . For clarity, network  302  is depicted a single node but may be a combination of wired and wireless connections as described in the above description of  FIG.  1   . Communication environment  301  includes host/teacher communication devices  300   a  -  300   b  used by first person  123   a  that may have similar or identical components and functionality as described for communication device  100  ( FIG.  1   ). Communication device  300   a  is depicted as a smartphone. Communication device  300   b  is depicted as a laptop. Network communication device  300   c  is generally autonomous but can be controlled by management console  303  on occasion to make configuration changes. Network communication device  300   c  may have similar identical components and functionality of communication device  100   a  ( FIG.  2   ). Participant communication device  300   d  is operated by second person  123   b . In one or more embodiments, additional second communication devices  144   a  -  144   z  are connected via network  302  to the video communication session and are operated by corresponding participants  323   a  -  323   z . First person  123   a  is creating speech  325   a  that is captured by microphone  132   a  of host/teacher communication device  300   a  and communicated as audio stream  327   a  to the video communication session. First person  123   a  is creating written content  329   a  that is captured by image capturing device  130   a  of host/teacher communication device  300   a  and communicated as image stream  331   a  to the video communication session. Participant communication device  300   d  presents audio  327   a  and image stream  331   a  for second person  123   b . Microphone  132   b  of participant communication device  300   d  captures speech  325   b  by second person  123   b  as audio stream  327   b  that may be communicated to the video communication session, if microphone  132   b  is not muted at participant communication device  300   d . Image capturing device  130   b  of participant communication device  300   d  has a field of view (FOV)  340  that captures image stream  331   b , which incorporates all or a portion of second person  123   b . Participant communication device  300   d  may communicate image stream  331   b  to the video communication session if image capturing device is not disabled (i.e., turned off) at participant communication device  300   d . It is appreciated that, even if audio stream  327   b  and image stream  331   b  are received by host/teacher communication devices  300   a  -  300   b , host/teacher communication devices  300   a  -  300   b  may not present audio stream  327   b  and image stream  331   b  to first person  123   a . In addition, first person  123   a  may be occupied with presenting instructional content and unable to monitor attentiveness and/or compliance by second person  123   b . 
     Compliance can, in part, be based on an amount of time that second person  123   b  is gazing at display device  133   b  of participant communication device  300   d . Image capturing device  130   b  is physically located on a same side as display device  130   b  and can capture image stream in which the gaze of second person  123   b  would be discernible. In an example, a gaze compliance threshold for attentiveness can be established, requiring second person  123   b  to gaze toward participant communication device  300   d  at least 60% of the time during a one-minute period of time in order for second person  123   b  to receive a passing score for satisfactory attentiveness. Participation score can be calculated, at least in part, on the gaze time of the participant. The gaze compliance threshold is set to be less than 100% to accommodate additional activities that may be allowable or preferred by second person  123   b , such as taking notes  333 , looking away periodically to reduce eye strain, and active listening when audio stream  327   a  is conveying the instructional content rather than viewing a static (less instructional-based) image stream  331   a . 
     In alternate embodiments, one or more of host/teacher communication devices  300   a  -  300   b , network communication device  300   c , and participant communication device  300   d  can perform the functionality of managing compliance by second person  123   b . As an example, in one embodiment, so as to reduce transmission and computational overhead for host/teacher communication devices  300   a  -  300   b  and network communication device  300   c , participant communication device  300   d  can monitor image stream  331   b  from image capturing device  130   b  and report compliance to host/teacher communication devices  300   a  -  300   b  and network communication device  300   c . In one or more alternate embodiments, one or more of host/teacher communication devices  300   a  -  300   b  and network communication device  300   c  receive image stream  331   b  and manage compliance, which also enables use of participant communication device  300   d  that is not specifically configured for compliance management. 
       FIG.  4    depicts an embodiment of user interface  146 , which presents compliance alerts on display device  133  of communication device  100  during the video communication session. First person  123 , associated with or operating communication device  100 , can be positioned within detection range of image capturing device  130  and microphone  132  to enable communication device  100  to produce an audiovisual stream  401  that is communicated to second communication devices  144   a  -  144   b  ( FIG.  1   ). User interface  146  provides general video communication session controls  403  such as “home” for settings, audio mute/unmute toggle, stop/start video toggle, view mode toggle, chat window selection, share screen toggle, record start/stop control, and video communication session join/leave toggle. In one or more embodiments, compliance level is presented by including dynamic participation gauge  405  superimposed within or placed adjacent to each participant image stream  424   a  -  424   e . Automatic alerts may be presented with the applicable participant image stream  424   a  -  424   e , including alerts such as: “not present” alert  407 , “failed participation quiz” alert  409 , “too dark” alert  411 , and “send aural” alert  413 , which is triggered or activated in response to detecting a sleeping participant. Participants who wish to provide an explanation for a detected compliance failure can provide a written explanation that is captured, such as in a private compliance chat window  415 . Scores and other compliance data can be captured and presented in a “roster and required article” tracking window  417 . 
     In one or more embodiments, communication device  100  is configured to exclusively present user interface  146 , preventing use of other applications that obscure video or audio during a video communication session. In an example, communication device  100  may prevent execution of other applications  116  ( FIG.  1   ) that cause presentation of audio/video content on an output device communicatively connected to communication device  100 . In one or more embodiments, communication device  100  may be configured to report execution of other applications  116  ( FIG.  1   ) to a host or network communication device. In an example, video conference application  114  ( FIG.  1   ) configures communication device to monitor what is presented at display device  133  and to monitor what is presented at audio output from audio output device(s)  136 . By comparing the received image stream and audio stream from the video communication session to what is locally presented, communication device  100  detects that one or more other applications  114  ( FIG.  1   ) are presenting content that interferes with the video communication session. 
     With reference now to the flow charts, there are presented method  500  ( FIGS.  5 A -  5 C ), method  600  ( FIG.  6   ) and method  700  ( FIGS.  7 A -  7 B ). Method  500  depicted in  FIGS.  5 A -  5 C  (collectively  FIG.  5   ) describe examples of functionality performed by communication device  100  used by person  123  ( FIG.  1   ) or by communication device  100   a  ( FIG.  2   ) that supports a video communication session. The functionality includes managing compliance of person  123   b  who uses communication device  300   d  ( FIG.  3   ). In an example of compliance management, method  600  depicted in  FIG.  6    provides for managing compliance with a policy requiring attentiveness as defined by gaze direction of person  123   b  who uses communication device  300   d  ( FIG.  3   ). In another example of compliance, method  700  depicted in  FIGS.  7 A -  7 C  (collectively  FIG.  7   ) provides for managing compliance with a policy requiring limited background noise, live image stream, completion of a visual acuity test, and adequate illumination of person  123   b  who uses communication device  300   d  ( FIG.  3   ). Method  800  depicted in  FIGS.  8 A -  8 B  (collectively  FIG.  8   ) depict a flow diagram of a method for managing compliance and/or assess attentiveness of person  123   b  who uses communication device  300   d  ( FIG.  3   ) by automatically creating quizzes based on recent speech or written content presented by person  123   a . The descriptions of methods  500 ,  600 ,  700  and  800  are provided with general reference to the specific components illustrated within the preceding  FIGS.  1 - 4   , and specific components referenced in methods  500 ,  600 ,  700  and  800  may be identical or similar to components of the same name used in describing preceding  FIGS.  1  -  4   . 
     With reference to  FIG.  5 A , method  500  includes receiving, by an electronic device, via at least one network interface and network, during a video communication session, at least one image stream (block  502 ). Each image stream received is produced respectively by an image capturing device of a corresponding second electronic device. Method  500  includes identifying at least one person within the at least one image stream (block  504 ). Method  500  includes producing attendance data by comparing the at least one person that is identified within the image stream with a roster of at least one person expected to join the video communication session (block  506 ). Method  500  includes generating participation data co-related to an amount of time that the at least one person is gazing toward the image capturing device of the corresponding second electronic device (block  508 ). Method  500  includes communicating an alert to the corresponding second electronic device in response to determining that a particular person of the at least one person is not gazing toward the corresponding image capturing device (block  510 ). In one or more embodiments, the alert is not triggered until the person gazes away for a period of time that exceeds a threshold amount. Compliance does not require constant staring at the display screen. Empirical data for optimum behaviors and/or real-time monitoring of user behavior may be used to set thresholds and time periods. Method  500  includes communicating, to a host output device, the attendance data and the participation data of the at least person during a duration of the video communication session (block  512 ). Participation data can include attentiveness as related to a score on gazing toward visual content. Participation data can include amount of verbal or text responses made. Participation data can include compliance with policies that avoid a distraction for other persons using second communication devices that are connected to the video communication session. In one or more embodiments, the alerts are made frequently enough, directly to the person, for the person to renew looking at a display device before noncompliance is reported to a host or network communication device. In an example, a local alert is based on a measuring eye gaze direction over a relatively short pre-defined period of time. A relatively high threshold is set for satisfactory participation with a local alert being presented for falling short of the threshold. By contrast, participation data may be based on a longer time period than the local alerts and have a lower threshold for a satisfactory amount of participation, such as co-related to eye gaze direction. Responding promptly to the local alerts may in most instances avoid an unsatisfactory participation score. 
     Following block  512 , method  500  includes associating a quiz question derived from a preceding portion of the video communication session (block  514 ). Method  500  includes communicating the quiz question in response to determining that a particular person of the at least one person is not gazing toward the corresponding image capturing device (block  516 ). In one or more embodiments, correctly answering a question raises a participation score. In one or more embodiments, correctly answering a question adds a mitigating comment to the participation data. In one or more embodiments, one of communication devices  300   a  -  300   c  generates, stores and communicates participation data for each person  123   b  ( FIG.  3   ). In one or more embodiments, each communication device  300   d  generates, stores and communicates participation data specific to corresponding person  123   b  who is using communication device  300   d  ( FIG.  3   ). One or more of communication devices  300   a  -  300   c  receives, aggregates, stores and redistributes the separately collected participation data. In one or more embodiments, the participation data characterizes behavior over an entire video communication session. In one or more embodiments, the participation data characterizes behavior of segmented time period of the video communication session. 
     Method  500  includes identifying, from the image stream, garment(s) worn by the at least one person (block  518 ). Method  500  includes comparing the garment(s) to at least one clothing policy rule (e.g., required uniform, prohibited logos, modesty coverage) (block  520 ). Method  500  continues at decision block  522  of  FIG.  5 B . 
     With reference to  FIG.  5 B , method  500  includes determining whether the garment(s) worn violate at least one clothing policy rule (decision block  522 ). In response to determining that the garment does not violate at least one clothing policy rule, method  500  proceeds to block  526 . In response to determining that the garment violates the at least one clothing policy rule, method  500  includes communicating non-compliance of the garment to the corresponding person (block  524 ). 
     Proceeding from one of decision block  522  or block  524 , method  500  includes associating or identifying an article (e.g., eyeglasses) that a particular person of the at least one person is required to use during the video communication session (block  526 ). Method  500  includes determining an amount of time that the particular person is not using the article during a duration of the video communication session (block  528 ). Method  500  includes determining whether the amount of time that the particular person is not using the article exceeds a time threshold (decision block  530 ). In response to determining that the amount of time that the particular person is not using the article does not exceed a time threshold, method  500  proceeds to decision block  534 . In response to determining that the amount of time that the particular person is not using the article exceeds a time threshold, method  500  includes communicating non-compliance with wearing the required article (block  532 ). 
     Proceeding from one of decision block  530  or block  532 , method  500  includes determining whether a trigger is received from an input device of the electronic device (decision block  534 ). In an example, a host person or teacher holds up a required textbook and says, “please hold up your textbook”. The controller identifies the image of the textbook and recognizes the statement by the host person as a trigger. In another example, the host person or teacher selects a user interface control to confirm participation use of a “calculator”. The controller recognizes the user input as a trigger and accesses an image library of what calculators look like. In response to determining that the trigger is not received from the input device, method  500  proceeds to decision block  544  ( FIG.  5 C ). In response to determining that the trigger is received from the input device, method  500  includes triggering capture of a local image of an article (e.g., book, calculator, etc.) via the at least one image capturing device (block  536 ). Method  500  includes, during an interval of time, identifying any identical article presented within each of the at least one image streams from the respective at least one second electronic device during the interval of time (block  538 ). Then method  500  proceeds to block  540  ( FIG.  5 C ). 
     With reference to  FIG.  5 C , method  500  includes generating compliance data for each of the at least one person corresponding to the respective at least one image streams (block  540 ). Depending on the respective degree of compliance, each person can have compliance data that is relatively negative, neutral, positive, or a mix of characterizations. In one or more embodiments, compliance data that is negative can be reported in order to expedite review and response by a recipient. Method  500  includes communicating the compliance data to the host output device (block  542 ). After decision block  534  or block  542 , method  500  includes determining whether a non-compliance event has occurred with a policy, by a particular person of the at least one person during the video communication session (decision block  544 ). In response to determining that a non-compliance event with a policy has not occurred during the video communication session, method  500  returns to block  502  ( FIG.  5 A ). In response to determining that a non-compliance event with a policy has occurred, method  500  includes communicating a request for an explanation of the non-compliance with the policy to the second electronic device (block  546 ). Method  500  includes communicating, to the host output device, one of a received response and a null response along with the notice of non-compliance and an identity of the particular person (block  548 ). Then method  500  returns to block  502  ( FIG.  5 A ). 
     In one or more embodiments, method  500  includes receiving a host audio stream incorporating speech from a host participant, the host audio stream communicated to the one or more second electronic devices for presentation to a corresponding one or more person. Method  500  includes receiving a host image stream incorporating written content by the host participant, the host image stream communicated to the one or more second electronic devices for presentation to the corresponding one or more person. Method  500  include constructing a quiz question that includes at least one of: (i) a correct answer extracted from at least one of the speech and the written content and (ii) at least one incorrect answer that is not extracted from at least one of the speech and the written content. Method  500  includes communicating the quiz question to at least one of the one or more second electronic devices to prompt for a response by a corresponding user of the at least one of the one or more second electronic devices. Method  500  includes determining accuracy of one of: (i) a response; and (ii) a null response from a particular second electronic device. Method  500  includes determining the participation data in part based on the accuracy of the response for a corresponding person associated with the particular second electronic device. 
     In one or more embodiments, method  500  includes identifying at least one garment within the at least one image stream from a particular second electronic device. Method  500  includes identifying compliance of the at least one garment with a clothing policy from among policy directives. Method  500  includes communicating non-compliance data to the host output device for a person corresponding to the particular second electronic device based on determining that the at least one garment violates the clothing policy. In one or more particular embodiments, method  500  includes identifying compliance of the at least one garment with a clothing policy selected from among the policy directives comprising one or more of: (i) modesty; (ii) required uniform garment; and (iii) presence of a supportive logo. 
     In one or more embodiments, in response to identifying one of: (i) a trigger received from a host user interface; and (ii) participation data below a threshold, method  500  includes communicating a visual acuity test to a particular second electronic device. The visual acuity test is conducted to measure how clearly the person can see from a distance and to determine whether corrective glasses are needed. A Snellen chart is presented with letters that get progressively smaller on lower rows. Method  500  includes receiving a user input to the visual acuity test from the particular second electronic device. Method  500  includes comparing the user input to characteristics presented by the visual acuity test. Method  500  includes communicating a failed test alert to the host electronic device in response to the user input not matching the characteristics presented by the visual acuity test. 
     In one or more embodiments, method  500  includes determining an illumination level of the image stream. Method  500  includes presenting an illumination level alert at the at least one display device in response to determining that the illumination level is less than a threshold illumination level. Proper illumination may support effective visual monitoring of the participant. Proper illumination may also enhance the attentiveness of the participation. Proper illumination can avoid eye strain or other effects of looking at a bright display in a darkened room. 
     In one or more embodiments, method  500  includes identifying an article that a particular person of the at least one person is required to use during the video communication session. Method  500  includes determining an amount of time that the particular person is not using the article during a duration of the video communication session. Method  500  includes communicating non-compliance in response to determining that the amount of time that the particular person is not using the article exceeds a time threshold. 
     In one or more embodiments, method  500  includes determining, during the video communication session, incidents of non-compliance by a particular person with a policy associated with one of: (i) participation score; (ii) use of a required article; and (iii) wearing of permitted garments. In response to determining non-compliance by the particular person with the policy during the video communication session, method  500  includes communicating a notice of the non-compliance with the policy to a corresponding second electronic device of the particular person. Method  500  includes communicating a request for an explanation of the non-compliance with the policy to the second electronic device. Method  500  includes communicating, to the host output device, one of a received response and a null response along with the notice of non-compliance and an identity of the particular person. A null response includes a blank response affirmatively sent from the particular second electronic device. A null response includes no response within a particular period of time that indicates the participant refuses to respond or has become unavailable to respond. The null response may be deemed as an incorrect answer. In one or more embodiments, the particular type of null response is tracked and reported. 
     In one or more embodiments, in response to a trigger from the input device, method  500  includes triggering capture of a local image of an article via the at least one image capturing device. Method  500  includes identifying whether an identical article is identified within each of the at least one image streams from the respective at least one second electronic device. Method  500  includes generating compliance data comprising one of compliant and non-compliant for each of the at least one person corresponding to the respective at least one image streams. Method  500  includes communicating the compliance data to the host output device. 
       FIG.  6    depicts a flow diagram of method  600  for managing compliance of person  123   b  who uses communication device  300   d  ( FIG.  3   ). Method  600  includes producing an image stream by image capturing device(s) configured or positionable to have a field of view that encompasses a person viewing display device(s) (block  602 ). Method  600  includes communicatively connecting an electronic device by network interface(s) over a network to a host electronic device during a video communication session (block  604 ). During the video communication session, method  600  includes identifying (by using one or more techniques described below) whether the person is gazing toward the display device(s). In one or more embodiments, method  600  includes determining whether the image capturing device(s) is proximate to the display device(s) (decision block  606 ). In response to determining that the image capturing device(s) is not proximate to the display device(s), method  600  proceeds to decision block  614 . In response to determining that the image capturing device(s) is proximate to the display device(s), method  600  includes identifying whether the person is gazing toward the display device(s) by determining whether the person is gazing toward the image capturing device(s) (decision block  608 ). In response to determining that the person is gazing toward the display device(s), method  600  proceeds to block  602 . In response to determining that the person is not gazing toward the image capturing device(s), method  600  includes determining whether the person has gazed away from the display device(s) for more than a threshold period of time (decision block  610 ). In response to determining that the person has not been gazing away from the display device(s) for not more than (i.e., less than or equal to) a threshold period of time, method  600  proceeds to block  602 . In response to determining that the person has been gazing away from the display device(s) for more than a threshold period of time, method  600  includes presenting an alert at the display device(s) indicating that the person has not been gazing toward the display device(s) (block  612 ). In one or more embodiments, the alert includes one or more of a visual alert, an auditory alert, and a vibratory alert. Method  600  proceeds to block  602 . 
     In response to determining that the image capturing device(s) is not proximate to the display device(s) in decision block  606 , method  600  includes identifying a gaze direction that is not toward the image capturing device(s) but is toward the display device(s). In particular, during the video communication session, method  600  includes identifying whether the person is gazing toward the display device(s) by determining a particular gaze direction by one or more techniques. In one or more embodiments, method  600  includes determining whether the face of the person and the display device(s) are identified within the field of view of the image capturing device(s) (decision block  614 ). In response to determining that the face of the person and the display device(s) are not identified within the field of view of the image capturing device(s), method  600  proceeds to decision block  618 . In response to determining that the face of the person and the display device(s) are identified within the field of view of the image capturing device(s), method  600  includes determining whether at least one of the face and the eyes of the person are oriented toward the display device(s) (decision block  616 ). In one or more embodiments, the controller identifies whether the head of the person is directed toward, away from, to the left of, or to the right of the image capturing device. The controller determines whether the display device(s) are positioned in that relative direction to the person. In one or more embodiments, the controller has three-dimensional data based on range finding, triangulation of multiple display devices, three-dimensional image stream, etc. The controller can determine the locations of the person and the display device(s) in three-dimensional space. The controller may use facial detection to determine in what direction the person is facing. The controller may identify shoulders, neck and head of the person without detecting a face and can determine that the person is facing away from the image capturing device(s) with the angle based on the shoulder orientation. In response to determining that the face of the person is oriented toward the display device(s), method  600  proceeds to block  602 . In response to determining that the face of the person is not oriented toward the display device(s) (and is thus not gazing at the display device(s)), method  600  returns to decision block  610 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  6 B , in response to determining that the face of the person and the display device(s) are not identified within the field of view of the image capturing device(s) in decision block  614 , method  600  includes determining whether the face is oriented and presumed to be gazing in a direction previously determined to be toward the display device(s) (decision block  618 ). In an example, the direction can be predominantly associated with the person entering user inputs into a user input device. In another example, the direction can be associated with gaze direction during a two-way communication session in which the person does speak. These instances can occur in previous sessions such as between two communication devices. The active communication implies that the person was gazing toward the display device(s) and was not doing something else. Instances such as this are associated with the person gazing at the display device(s). In response to determining that the face of the person is oriented in the direction previously determined to be toward the display device(s), method  600  returns to block  602 . In response to determining that the face of the person is not oriented in the direction previously determined to be toward the display device(s) (and is thus not gazing at the display device(s)), method  600  returns to decision block  610 . 
       FIGS.  7 A -  7 C  (collectively  FIG.  7   ) depict a flow diagram of a method for managing compliance with a policy requiring limited background noise, live image stream, completion of a visual acuity test, and adequate illumination of a participant who uses a communication device. Method  700  can be performed as an alternative to, or in parallel with, method  600  ( FIG.  6   ) that is directed to compliance based on eye gaze and attentiveness. Method  700  includes identifying at least one policy applicable to a participant in the video communication session (block  702 ). In addition to encouraging attentiveness to the video communication session, the at least one policy can be enforced in parallel to further encourage other communication or educational objectives. Policies can be intended to enhance communication with other users and/or improve a user’s experience. In an example, at least one policy can require that the local person who is participating in the video communication session be in relatively quiet environment. Noises create distractions to the local person, degrading effective listening, and can create distractions to remote participant(s) should the local participant be unmuted to the video communication session. In another example, at least one policy can ensure that the local person has enabled a live image stream at least for local monitoring and for monitoring by a host at a host electronic device. In one or more embodiments, the controller has sufficient access and control over the at least one image capturing device to detect whether any interventions have been made to spoof a live image stream with a recorded image stream. 
     In an additional example, at least one policy can ensure that the local person has provided an electronic device with sufficient display size for effective viewing. The at least one policy can further ensure that the local person has sufficiently mitigated any visual impairment, such as wearing of eyeglasses or contact lenses, is positioned sufficiently close to the display, and has selected a display format that enables effective visual recognition and reading. In a further example, at least one policy can ensure that the illumination level of the local person is sufficient for effective monitoring by an image capturing device. The illumination level can also be sufficient for providing an image stream to at least one second electronic device. The illumination level can also be sufficient to improve attentiveness by a person who is participating in the video communication session. For clarity, each of these four examples of policies are described as occurring sequentially. In one or more embodiments, fewer or more than four such policies are monitored and acted upon. 
     In one or more embodiments, method  700  includes producing a local audio stream with microphone(s) that detects a corresponding audio input (block  704 ). Method  700  includes determining whether a trigger event has occurred (decision block  706 ). In an example, during initial setup of the video communication session, the local person can be prompted to speak in order to capture a voice input. In response to determining that a trigger event has not occurred, method  700  proceeds decision block  720  ( FIG.  7 B ). In response to determining that a trigger event has occurred, method  700  includes characterizing unique audio attributes of a voice of the person in the local audio stream for subsequent voice recognition (block  708 ). Method  700  includes, during a video communication session, receiving, via the network interface(s) and the network, a received audio stream from the video communication session (block  710 ). Method  700  includes presenting the received audio stream at the audio output device(s) as a local audio output (block  712 ). Method  700  includes determining a background noise level contained in the local audio stream by excluding the voice of the person and the audio output from the received audio stream (block  714 ). Method  700  proceeds to block  716  of  FIG.  7 B . 
     With reference to  FIG.  7 B , method  700  includes comparing the background noise level with a non-compliant noise level and presenting an alert on the display device(s) in response to the background noise level exceeding a non-compliant noise level (block  716 ). Method  700  includes communicating the alert to the host electronic device in response to the background noise level exceeding the non-compliant noise level for a threshold amount of time (block  718 ). 
     In response to determining that a trigger event has not occurred in decision block  706  or after block  718 , in one or more embodiments, method  700  includes determining whether the image capturing device(s) is producing a live image stream that is communicated to the host electronic device (decision block  720 ). This determination ensures that the visual compliance management functionality is enabled by having a live image stream from each electronic device. Granularity in detecting a source of a problem with providing a live feed may quickly obviate an inadvertently mistaken configuration of one or more electronic devices. Identifying malfunctions or network difficulties may be used for triggering maintenance actions. By contrast, the granularity in detecting the source of the problem may deter intentional avoidance of automated compliance management. In response to determining that the image capturing device(s) is not producing a live image stream that is communicated to the host electronic device, method  700  includes communicating an invalid image stream alert to the host electronic device (block  722 ). Providing no image stream triggers an invalid image stream alert. In an example, an invalid image stream alert may indicate a hardware failure of the communication device. In another example, an invalid image stream alert may indicate that the software settings for the image capturing device have been disabled. In an additional example, an invalid image stream alert can indicate that the image capturing device has been incorrectly position or obscured, preventing capturing of an image of the person. In a further example, an invalid image stream alert may indicate a malicious attempt to spoof a live stream with a recorded image. In one or more embodiments, a controller may not have sufficient access to the image capturing device of the particular electronic device to determine if the image feed is live and local to the particular electronic device. To verify that the image feed is live, the controller may communicate an alert for a corresponding person using the particular electronic device to wave or to raise a specified number of fingers and confirm the correct response within a pre-defined period of time without a video feed discontinuity. 
     In response to determining that the image capturing device(s) is producing a live image stream that is communicated to the host electronic device in decision block  720  or after block  722 , in one or more embodiments, method  700  includes determining whether a visual acuity trigger has occurred (decision block  724 ). In an example, the visual acuity trigger can be a random or routine check of each person participating in the video communication session to confirm adequate display size and adequately compensated human vision. In another example, the visual acuity trigger can automatically occur at a network device, a host electronic device, or the electronic device, when a particular person is detected as being inattentive or failing to respond with accurate user inputs to displayed questions. In an additional example, the visual acuity trigger can be manually triggered by a host at a host electronic device. In response to determining that a visual acuity trigger has not occurred, method  700  proceeds to  736  ( FIG.  7 C ). 
     In response to determining that a visual acuity trigger has occurred, method  700  includes presenting a visual acuity test on the display device(s) (block  726 ). The visual acuity test can evaluate whether a display size of the display device(s) is sufficient to display information that can be recognized or read by a person at the electronic device. In one or more embodiments, the controller of the electronic device can identify a configuration of the electronic device, including the display size. Using the image stream from the image capturing device(s), the controller can determine how far back from the display device(s) that the person is. With this information, the controller can present a visual acuity test to determine whether the person is too far away from the display and/or whether the person has limited vision capabilities that require augmentation or mitigation. Method  700  includes prompting for a user input in response to the visual acuity test (block  728 ). Method  700  includes comparing the user input to characteristics presented by the visual acuity test (block  730 ). Then method  700  proceeds to decision block  732  ( FIG.  7 C ). 
     With reference to  FIG.  7 C , method  700  includes determining whether the user input matches the characteristics presented by the visual acuity test (decision block  732 ). In response to determining that the user input matches the characteristics presented by the visual acuity test, method  700  proceeds to block  736 . In response to determining that the user input does not match the characteristics presented by the visual acuity test, method  700  includes communicating a failed visual acuity test alert to the host electronic device (block  734 ). In one or more embodiments, additional information is presented indicating a root cause of the failure in the response to the user input not matching the characteristics presented by the visual acuity test. 
     In response to determining that a visual acuity trigger has not occurred in decision block  724  ( FIG.  7 B ) or after block  734 , in one or more embodiments, method  700  includes determining whether an illumination level of the image stream is greater than a threshold illumination level sufficient for adequate visual monitoring of the person (block  736 ). In response to determining the illumination level of the image stream is greater than a threshold illumination level, method  700  returns to block  702  ( FIG.  7 A ). In response to determining the illumination level of the image stream is not greater than (i.e., less than or equal to) than a threshold illumination level, method  700  includes presenting an illumination level alert at the display device(s) (block  738 ). Method  700  includes determining, after predefined period of time, whether the illumination level of the image stream remains at or below the threshold illumination level (block  740 ). In response to determining that the illumination level of the image stream has not remained at or below the threshold illumination level, method  700  returns to block  702  ( FIG.  7 A ). In response to determining that the illumination level of the image stream has remained at or below (i.e., is less than) the threshold illumination level, method  700  includes communicating an illumination level alert to a host electronic display (block  742 ). Then method  700  returns to block  702  ( FIG.  7 A ). 
       FIGS.  8 A -  8 B  (collectively  FIG.  8   ) depict a flow diagram of method  800  for automatically creating quizzes based on recent speech or written content presented to a participant to assess attentiveness. Method  800  includes communicatively connecting an electronic device over a network to one or more second electronic devices during a video communication session (block  802 ). Method  800  includes producing an audio stream by at least one microphone that receives an audio input (block  804 ). Method  800  includes communicating the audio stream to the one or more second electronic devices (block  806 ). In one or more embodiments, the audio stream is part of a video stream that also includes at least one image stream. Method  800  includes identifying speech contained in the audio stream (block  808 ). In one or more embodiments, method  800  includes receiving a camera image stream from at least one image capturing device configured to have a field of view that includes a writing surface (block  810 ). In one or more embodiments, method  800  includes accessing visual aid data stored in a memory (block  812 ). In one or more embodiments, method  800  includes producing an image stream that includes at least one of written content from the visual aid data (e.g., screen share) and written data captured by the camera image stream (block  814 ). In an example, the written data is notes written on a white board or black board. Method  800  includes communicating the image stream to the one or more second electronic devices (block  816 ). Method  800  includes identifying written content contained in the image stream (block  818 ). Method  800  includes determining a topic of the at least one of the speech and the written content (block  820 ). Then method  800  proceeds to block  822  of  FIG.  8 B . 
     With reference to  FIG.  8 B , method  800  includes associating the topic with related text that is not equivalent to the at least one of the speech and the written content (block  822 ). Method  800  includes constructing a quiz question that includes at least one of: (i) a correct answer extracted from the at least one of the speech and the written content and (ii) at least one incorrect answer extracted from the related text (block  824 ). In one or more embodiments, the quiz question is a true/false question. In one or more embodiments, the quiz question is a multiple answer question. In one or more embodiments, the quiz question is drag and drop the answers with the appropriate questions. In one or more embodiments, the quiz question solicits a short essay answer. In one or more embodiments, the quiz question is another question format. Method  800  includes communicating the quiz question to at least one of the one or more second electronic devices to prompt for a response by a corresponding user of the at least one of the one or more second electronic devices (block  826 ). Method  800  includes receiving an answer within a predefined period of time from a first receiving device of the one or more second electronic devices (block  828 ). In one or more embodiments, not receiving an answer within the predefined period of time is deemed a null answer that is automatically incorrect. Method  800  includes determining an attentiveness score related to whether the answer is the correct answer (block  830 ). Method  800  includes communicating, to a host output device, the attentiveness score for the user associated with the first receiving device (block  832 ). Then method  800  returns to block  802  ( FIG.  8 A ). 
     Aspects of the present innovation are described above with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the innovation. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks. 
     As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, embodiments of the present innovation may be embodied as a system, device, and/or method. Accordingly, embodiments of the present innovation may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment or an embodiment combining software and hardware embodiments that may all generally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module” or “system.” 
     While the innovation has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made, and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the innovation. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular system, device, or component thereof to the teachings of the innovation without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the innovation not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed for carrying out this innovation, but that the innovation will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, the use of the terms first, second, etc. do not denote any order or importance, but rather the terms first, second, etc. are used to distinguish one element from another. 
     The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the innovation. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprise” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. 
     The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present innovation has been presented for purposes of illustration and description but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the innovation in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the innovation. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the innovation and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the innovation for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.