Understanding Schedules of Reinforcement

Sep 25, 2024

APA Made Easy: Schedules of Reinforcement

Introduction

  • Speaker: Mauricio
  • Topic: Schedules of Reinforcement
  • Definition: Contingency of reinforcement – how often reinforcement is provided.
  • Focus on two types: Continuous and Intermittent Reinforcement.

Types of Reinforcement

Continuous Reinforcement

  • Definition: Reinforcement after every correct response.
  • Abbreviation: CR or FR1 (Fixed Ratio 1).
  • Usage: When learning a task or strengthening a behavior.

Extinction

  • Definition: No reinforcement is provided for a response.

Intermittent Reinforcement

  • Definition: Reinforcement is provided occasionally.
  • Usage: Maintaining behaviors already established.
  • Real-world application: Reinforcement is not given after every response, mirroring real-world scenarios.

Types of Intermittent Reinforcement

Fixed Ratio (FR)

  • Definition: A set number of responses are required before reinforcement.
  • Example: FR3 means 3 responses are needed.
  • Applications: High rate of responding with post-reinforcement pause (e.g., Token economy).

Variable Ratio (VR)

  • Definition: Number of responses varies; average number is used.
  • Example: VR3 if averages to 3 responses.
  • Strength: Least prone to extinction. Example: Slot machines.

Fixed Interval (FI)

  • Definition: Time-based; after a set period, a correct response gets reinforcement.
  • Example: FI3 means 3 minutes must pass before opportunity for reinforcement.
  • Graph: Fixed Interval Scalloping – behaviors increase as time for next reinforcement nears.

Variable Interval (VI)

  • Definition: Time between reinforcement varies, averaged.
  • Example: VI4 if average time is 4 minutes.
  • Applications: Steady rate of responding (e.g., checking email).

Application in Real World

  • Start with Continuous Reinforcement for teaching.
  • Transition to Intermittent Reinforcement using schedule thinning.
  • Avoid Ratio Strain: Ensure not thinning too much, causing pushback or aggression.

Quiz Examples

  1. Pop Quizzes: Variable interval – unpredictable time.
  2. Door-to-door Sales: Variable ratio – based on number of attempts.
  3. Weekly Exams: Fixed interval – cramming before exams shows scalloping.
  4. Mouse Lever Pressing: Fixed ratio (e.g., FR10 for 10 presses).

Conclusion

  • Concepts: Understand fixed vs. variable, and ratio vs. interval.
  • Graphs: Useful in understanding reinforcement patterns.
  • Tip: Variable ratio is most resistant to extinction.

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