Question: A Casino Slot Machine Has A Random Chance Of Paying Out A Prize Each Time A Wager Is Made. This Would Be An Example Of A. Variable-ratio Schedule. Fixed-ratio Schedule. Random-variable Ratio Schedule. Non-variable-ratio Schedule. He then altered the box so that the pellets would only be awarded randomly when the pigeon pressed the lever. This system was referred to as variable ratio enforcement and the pigeons pressed the lever more often in this set-up and Skinner likened his box set-up to a slot machine.
Schedules of Reinforcement
Reinforcement Schedule Choices:
Continuous reinforcement: reinforce a desired behavior every time it occurs
- Advantage: faster acquisition/learning of behavior
- Disadvantage: behavior not particularly resistant to extinction (defined as the weakening or disappearance of a behavior when it is not reinforced)
Partial reinforcement: reinforcing a desired behavior only part of the time
- Advantage: behavior more resistant to extinction
- Disadvantage: slower acquisition/learning of behavior
Are Slot Machines Variable Ratio Or Random Ratio Random
Are Slot Machines Variable Ratio
If you decide to use a partial reinforcement schedule there are several different options to choose from…
Are Slot Machines Variable Ratio Or Random Ratio Variable
Schedule | Defined | Comments | Examples |
Fixed-ratio | Reinforce behavior after a specific number of correct behaviors have occurred. | ·Produces fastest acquisition/learning ·Extinguishes relatively fast (how quickly do you notice when a vending machine is broken?) ·Animal or human on this schedule can become exhausted | ·Piecework on an assembly line ·Vending machines |
Variable-ratio | Reinforce behavior after an average number of correct behaviors have occurred. | ·Slower acquisition than fixed-ratio ·More resistant to extinction than fixed ratio (how quickly do you notice when a slot machine is broken and isn’t paying out?) | ·Slot machines ·Fishing |
Fixed-interval | Reinforce behavior after a specific amount of time has passed | ·Behavior more inconsistent ·Respond rapidly near time of reinforcement ·Respond more slowly between reinforcements | ·Studying for regularly scheduled exams (e.g., every two weeks) ·Watching the clock at work close to quitting time |
Variable-interval | Reinforce behavior after an average amount of time has passed | ·Produces slowest acquisition ·Most resistant to extinction ·Behavior more consistent/less variation | ·Studying for random pop quizzes ·Surfer waiting for a good wave ·Repeated dialing of a busy phone number |