Question

Mike trained his dog to ""shake"" using a fixed-interval schedule of reinforcement. Jake trained his dog to shake using a variable-ratio schedule.. Nikki trained her dog to shake on a fixed-ratio schedule. From which dog do you expect steadier response rates and greater resistance to extinction?

Answer 1

Answer:

Jake's dog will have the steadier response rates and has greater resistance to extinction.

Explanation:

These are known as the stages of reinforcement, which are specific rules determining  when the behavior will be rewarded via desired stimulus.

Let's break the terms ratio and interval down:

• Ratio refers to the number of times the desired behavior occurs.
• Interval refers to time elapsed.

Now let's break down each example:

• Fixed-interval schedule occurs when the behavior is rewarded after specific amount of time has passed, for example, getting your paycheck every 15 days. Since the individual learns when the reward will come, the behavior will be much higher when he/she knows the reward will be coming soon which is not very effective.
• Fixed-ratio schedule refers to getting the reward after a specific number of times the behavior has appeared, such as getting a lollipop after running 10 laps. This one causes a higher response rate but it can still be prone to extinction.
• Variable-ratio schedule occurs when the behavior is rewarded after an unknown number of responses. This one produces the highest response rate since the individual does not know when or after how many responses the reward will come, thus ensuring the prevalence of the behavior in order to receive the reward.

According to these definitions, it can be concluded that Jake's variable-ratio schedule method is the best to ensure the dog shakes and the behavior does not become extinct.

Answer 2

Answer:

Nikki, training her dog in a fixed ratio schedule.

Explanation:

The fixed-ratio schedule has a stedier response, because the dog has to repeat what he is learning (his response) a set number of times to get the reinforcement object or action. He understands that he has to do the shake multiple times before he gets a treat or a compliment. The fixed-interval might be too abstract for the dog, and he would only start doing right before the next time he will get the reinforcement, and the variable ratio might make the dog quit doing too early.