B.10 Identify and distinguish among concurrent, multiple, mixed, and chained schedules of reinforcement
Concurrent Schedule of Reinforcement
A concurrent schedule of reinforcement involves two or more reinforcement schedules that are available simultaneously, each linked to a different behavior. The individual can choose which behavior to engage in based on the reinforcement associated with each schedule..
Example: A student has two tasks to complete: one task (e.g., reading) is on a fixed-ratio schedule where they receive a break after reading 10 pages, and another task (e.g., math problems) is on a variable-interval schedule where they receive praise at unpredictable intervals. The student can choose to work on either task, depending on which schedule they find more reinforcing.
Multiple Schedule of Reinforcement
A multiple schedule of reinforcement involves two or more reinforcement schedules that are presented alternately, with each schedule signaled by a different stimulus. The individual learns to differentiate between the schedules based on the stimuli.
Example: In a classroom, a teacher uses different colored cards to signal different reinforcement schedules. When a green card is displayed, students earn tokens for each correct answer (fixed-ratio schedule). When a red card is shown, tokens are given after a set amount of time has passed, provided students are on task (fixed-interval schedule). The color of the card indicates which reinforcement schedule is in effect.
Mixed Schedule of Reinforcement
A mixed schedule of reinforcement is similar to a multiple schedule, but there are no distinct stimuli to indicate which schedule is in effect. The individual must adjust their behavior based on the reinforcement patterns.
Example: A child is engaged in a learning activity where they occasionally receive tokens for completing tasks. Sometimes the tokens are given after a fixed number of tasks, and other times after varying amounts of time, but there is no signal to indicate when the schedule changes. The child continues working, adapting to the unpredictable reinforcement pattern.
Chained Schedule of Reinforcement
A chained schedule of reinforcement involves completing a series of behaviors in a specific sequence, with each step in the chain providing the cue for the next. Reinforcement is delivered only after the entire sequence is completed.
Example: A student must complete a series of tasks in a particular order: first, solve a math problem (Task 1), then write a sentence (Task 2), and finally, read a paragraph (Task 3). The student receives praise only after completing all three tasks in the correct order, reinforcing the sequence of behaviors.
Tandem Schedule of Reinforcement
A tandem schedule of reinforcement is similar to a chained schedule but without any distinct stimuli signaling the completion of each step in the sequence. The individual must complete a series of behaviors in a specific order to receive reinforcement, but there are no cues to indicate when each part of the sequence has been completed.
Example: A student is assigned to complete three tasks: solve a math problem, write a sentence, and then read a paragraph. Unlike a chained schedule, there are no distinct cues or signals between tasks. The student only receives praise after successfully completing all tasks in the correct order, reinforcing the entire sequence of behaviors.
Alternative Schedule of Reinforcement
An alternative schedule of reinforcement provides reinforcement based on either one of two or more schedules. The individual receives reinforcement as soon as any one of the schedules is met, offering flexibility in how the reinforcement is earned.
Example: A teacher sets up an alternative schedule for a student where reinforcement is provided if the student either completes 10 math problems (fixed-ratio schedule) or stays on task for 20 minutes (fixed-interval schedule), whichever comes first. The student earns a reward once they meet the schedule requirements, encouraging task completion or sustained focus.
Conjunctive Schedule of Reinforcement
A conjunctive schedule of reinforcement requires that the individual meet the requirements of two or more schedules before receiving reinforcement. The individual must complete all the specified tasks or criteria from each schedule to earn the reward.
Example: A student is working under a conjunctive schedule where they must both complete 10 math problems (fixed-ratio schedule) and stay on task for 20 minutes (fixed-interval schedule) to earn a reward. Reinforcement is only provided after both the fixed-ratio and fixed-interval requirements are met, reinforcing both task completion and sustained attention.