Fixed Interval

Definition

A fixed interval schedule of reinforcement is an operant conditioning paradigm where a response is reinforced only after a specific, pre-determined amount of time has elapsed since the last reinforcement. This creates a pattern of responding where the rate of response increases as the time for the next reinforcement approaches.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In a fixed interval schedule, the first response after the predetermined time period is reinforced, resetting the interval timer.
2. Fixed interval schedules produce a characteristic response pattern, with a pause in responding immediately after reinforcement, followed by an increase in response rate as the next reinforcement becomes due.
3. Fixed interval schedules are useful for training behaviors that need to occur at specific, predictable time intervals, such as checking a particular location for food rewards.
4. Compared to variable interval schedules, fixed interval schedules tend to produce slower, more stable response rates, as organisms learn to time their responses to the fixed interval.
5. Fixed interval schedules can be used to study the effects of reinforcement on behavior, as the predictable timing of reinforcement allows researchers to isolate the impact of the reinforcement schedule.

Review Questions

• Describe the characteristic response pattern observed in a fixed interval schedule of reinforcement.
  • In a fixed interval schedule, the response pattern is characterized by a pause in responding immediately after reinforcement, followed by an increase in response rate as the next reinforcement becomes due. This is because the organism learns to time its responses to the fixed interval, responding more frequently as the time for the next reinforcement approaches.
• Explain how fixed interval schedules differ from variable interval schedules in terms of their effects on response rates.
  • Compared to variable interval schedules, fixed interval schedules tend to produce slower, more stable response rates. This is because the predictable timing of reinforcement in a fixed interval schedule allows the organism to learn to time its responses to the fixed interval, resulting in a more consistent pattern of responding. In contrast, the unpredictable timing of reinforcement in a variable interval schedule leads to more variable response rates.
• Evaluate the potential benefits of using a fixed interval schedule of reinforcement in the context of operant conditioning training.
  • Fixed interval schedules can be useful for training behaviors that need to occur at specific, predictable time intervals, such as checking a particular location for food rewards. The predictable timing of reinforcement allows the organism to learn to time its responses accordingly, leading to more reliable and consistent performance of the desired behavior. Additionally, the stable response patterns observed in fixed interval schedules can be valuable for researchers studying the effects of reinforcement on behavior, as the predictable timing of reinforcement allows for better isolation and analysis of the impact of the reinforcement schedule.

Related terms

Operant Conditioning: A type of learning where behaviors are modified by their consequences, either reinforcement or punishment.

Reinforcement Schedule: The pattern by which reinforcement is delivered following a desired behavior.

Variable Interval: A reinforcement schedule where the time between reinforcements varies, rather than being fixed.