Ratio Schedule
Definition
A ratio schedule in psychology refers to a program by which reinforcement depends on the number of correct responses.
Analogy
Imagine being paid commission for sales. The more products you sell (responses), the more money you make (reinforcement). The reinforcement is directly tied to the number of responses.
Related terms
Fixed Ratio Schedule: A type of ratio schedule where reinforcement is delivered after a specific number of responses have been made.
Variable Ratio Schedule: A type of ratio schedule where reinforcement is delivered after an unpredictable number of responses have been made.
Shaping: A method used in teaching a new behavior by reinforcing closer and closer approximations to the desired behavior.
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