Fixed-Ratio Schedule

A fixed-ratio schedule is a type of reinforcement schedule in operant conditioning, which determines the frequency and timing of reinforcements or rewards given to an individual based on a specific number of responses or behaviors.

Definition

In a fixed-ratio schedule, reinforcement is delivered after a predetermined number of responses or behaviors have occurred. This means that a specific ratio between the number of responses and the presentation of reinforcement is established.

Example

For example, in a fixed-ratio schedule of 5, a reward is provided every 5th response or behavior. If a rat is pressing a lever in an experiment, it would receive a food pellet after every 5 lever presses. If a salesperson receives a bonus for every 10 sales made, it would be following a fixed-ratio schedule as well.

Characteristics

Here are some key characteristics of the fixed-ratio schedule:

• It establishes a consistent ratio between behaviors and reinforcement.
• It leads to a high response rate as individuals strive to meet the required ratio and obtain reinforcement.
• It may result in brief pauses in responding after reinforcement is delivered, followed by a rapid increase in responding to reach the next reinforcement point.
• It is often used in shaping specific behaviors or encouraging repeated practice.
• It may lead to the development of superstitious behaviors, where individuals mistakenly associate certain actions with the delivery of reinforcement.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages of a fixed-ratio schedule include promoting productivity and efficiency, as individuals are motivated to perform more actions to receive reinforcement consistently. It can also be useful in training for certain tasks that require a specific number of repetitions to achieve competence. However, a downside is that once the reinforcement is removed, extinction of the behavior can occur more rapidly compared to other schedules.

In conclusion, a fixed-ratio schedule provides reinforcement based on a fixed number of responses or behaviors, leading to predictable patterns of responding and motivation to continue performing the desired action in order to receive reinforcement.