1. Reinforcement Schedules

2. Reinforcement Schedules
Pattern that defines how often a desired response will be reinforced Ratio refers to the number of responses that are required before the reward is given. Interval refers to the amount of time between rewards.

3. Continuous Reinforcement
Reward following every correct response
Best used for establishing a behavior
Extinction occurs quickly
Examples?
Quick Acquisition
Quick Extinction
Partial Reinforcement
Rewards follow only some responses
Initial learning is slower.
Greater resistance to extension
Four schedules: Fixed-interval, Variable-interval, Fixed-ratio and Variable-ratio

4. Variable-Ratio Schedule
Fixed-Ratio Schedule
Reinforces a response only after a specified number of responses.
Example: One reinforce for 30 responses
Variable-Ratio Schedule
Reinforces after an unpredictable number of responses
Most effective
Example: gambling, hunting

5. Reinforcement Schedules

6. Fixed-ratio Schedules
Example: I give cookie monster a cookie every FIVE times he sings “C is for cookie”.

7. Variable-ratio Schedule
Example: I give Homer a donut at random times when he says “DOH!!!”

8. Fixed-Interval Schedule
Reinforcement that reinforces a response only after a specified time has elapsed.
Example: Weekly paycheck
Variable-Interval Schedule
Reinforcement that strengthens a response at unpredictable time intervals
Example: Pop Quizzes

9. Fixed-interval Schedule
Example: I give Bart a Butterfinger every ten minutes after he moons someone.

10. Variable-interval Schedule
Boss checking your work

11. Schedules of Reinforcement: Questions to Ask
1. What is the behavior and what is the reinforcer?
2. Is the behavior reinforced every time? That's continuous.
3. Does the reinforcement vary by time or by number? That’s intermittent/partial reinf.
time = interval
number = ratio
4. Does the schedule stay the same or change?
stays the same = fixed
changes = variable