What describes a random schedule of reinforcement?

What describes a random schedule of reinforcement?

• A. No set pattern; intermittent and unpredictable
• B. Rewarding every correct response
• C. Reward after fixed number of responses
• D. Reward after a fixed time interval

Answer: (A)

Unpredictable reinforcement schedules deliver rewards without a constant pattern. A random schedule means reinforcement is given intermittently and without a predictable cue, so the dog can’t anticipate when the next reward will come and continues to respond. This contrasts with rewarding every correct response (continuous reinforcement), rewarding after a fixed number of responses (a fixed ratio), or rewarding after a fixed time interval (a fixed interval). The defining feature here is the lack of a predictable pattern, which helps maintain steady, persistent responding.

Unpredictable reinforcement schedules deliver rewards without a constant pattern. A random schedule means reinforcement is given intermittently and without a predictable cue, so the dog can’t anticipate when the next reward will come and continues to respond. This contrasts with rewarding every correct response (continuous reinforcement), rewarding after a fixed number of responses (a fixed ratio), or rewarding after a fixed time interval (a fixed interval). The defining feature here is the lack of a predictable pattern, which helps maintain steady, persistent responding.