Reinforcement

Reinforcement

1. Schedules (simple)

   • fixed interval schedule
     • Reinforcement follows a behaviour but only when it occurs after a given time period
   • fixed ratio schedule
     • reinforcement given when a behaviour has occured for a fixed number of times
   • intermittent schedules
   • Continuous reinforcement
     • All behaviours are reinforced continuously
   • variable interval schedule
     • The time between the behaviour and reinforcement varies
   • variable ratio schedule
     • reinforcement is given when a behaviour occurs but the number of time vaires

2. Schedules (complex)

   • Multiple schedule
     • when a behaviour is under the influenec of 2 or more schedules each associated with a particular stimulus
   • Mixed schedule
     • When a behaviour is under the influence of 2 or more schedules but there is no stimuli associated with the change
   • Chain schedule
     • Reinforcement is delivered on completion of the last link in a series of schedules
   • Tandem Schedule
     • Reinforcement is delivered on the last link of the schedule however no distinctive event signals ending of one schedule
   • Cooperative schedule
     • Dependant on the behaviour of 2 or more individuals
   • Concurrent schedule
     • when 2 or more schedules are available at one time