Schedules of Reinforcement
Schedule of
Reinforcement
Fixed-ratio (FR)
Definition and Examples
Reinforcement occurs after a fixed
number of responses,
e.g., piecework in a factory
Variable-ratio
Reinforcement occurs after an
average number of responses,
(VR)
which varies from trial to trial,
e.g., slot machines
Reinforcement occurs for the first
Fixed-interval
response emitted after a preset time
(FI)
has elapsed,
e.g., scheduled exams
Variable-interval Reinforcement occurs for the first
response emitted after an average
(VI)
amount of time has elapsed, but the
interval varies from trial to trial,
e.g., study habits of students when
instructor gives pop quizzes.
Effects
Produces a high rate of
responses that follows a
burst-pause-burst pattern.
Produces a high, steady rate
of response.
Responses increase as the
time for the next reinforcer
nears.
Produces a moderate, steady
rate of response.
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