What are the types of predetermined plans for timing the delivery of a

reinforcement?

Reinforcement follows each instance of the operant response.

Operant responses are learned most rapidly under this schedule

Also leads to rapid extinction when the reinforcement is withheld

Only a portion of responses are reinforced

This makes it more unlikely that an absence of reinforcement will be noticed

It takes a longer time for the response to fade out/greater resistance to extinction

This schedule is much more common in daily life

Think what it would mean to be reinforced on a continuous basis. You would receive a reinforcer (reward) each time you came to class, cracked open a textbook, or arrived at work on time.

However desirable this rate of reinforcement might seem, it is no doubt impossible to achieve in daily life.

Ratio Schedules

Reinforcement is based on the number of responses.

Interval Schedules

Reinforcement is based on the timing of the responses.

1. Fixed ratio2. Variable ratio3. Variable interval4. Fixed interval

Ratio = amount of responses (#)Interval = amount of time

A certain number of responses must occur before reinforcement

Results in high response rate

Example: A farmer gets paid for every 10 bushels of apples

Number of responses to get reinforcement is not constant

High rate of response, little pause because they never know when reinforcement will come.

Example: Slot machines

Reinforced after varying lengths of time

Results in slow steady pattern of responses

Example: Pop quizes- students must study all the time to be ready

Reinforced after a certain period of time

After reinforcement, responses will drop off until the next time approaches.

Example: Planned tests – students will cram because the time is near