Which are the two types of intermittent schedules?

Intermittent schedules of reinforcement are categorized primarily into two types: interval and ratio. An interval schedule involves reinforcing the first response that occurs after a specified period has elapsed, while a ratio schedule involves reinforcing behavior after a specified number of responses have been made.

For instance, under an interval schedule, a worker might receive a paycheck every two weeks, which reinforces their work behavior at regular intervals. Conversely, under a ratio schedule, a salesperson might earn a commission after making a certain number of sales, encouraging repeated efforts based on their performance.

The significance of understanding these categories lies in their applications in various fields, including education and behavior modification. This knowledge helps in crafting effective reinforcement strategies that can enhance learning and productivity.