Reinforcement Schedules / Observation & Cognitive Learning

Schedules of Reinforcement

A pattern that defines how often a desired response will be reinforced

Continuous Reinforcement

Desired behavior is reinforced each and every time it occurs

Partial (Intermittent) Reinforcement

The response is reinforced only part of the time

Fixed-Ratio

Response is reinforced only after a specific number of responses

Variable-Ratio

Response is reinforced after an unpredictable number of responses

Fixed-Interval

The first response is rewarded only after a specified amount of time has elapsed

Variable-Interval

Occur when a response is rewarded after an unpredictable amount of time has passed

Observational Learning

The process of learning through watching others, retaining the information, and then later replicating the behaviors that were observed

Mirror Neurons

Nervous system cells that fire both when an organism itself is doing behavior and also when observing another organism doing the behavior

Latent Learning

One can learn something, but not show the behavior right away

Cognitive map

A mental representation that allows an organism to acquire, store, and recall information in a real or spatial environment

Learned Helplessness

A mental state in which an organism continues to experience a painful, unpleasant, or aversive stimulus