Operant Conditioning: Fixed vs. Variable Interval Schedules

Very Hard Unit 4: Learning Operant Conditioning

In a carefully controlled laboratory experiment, a researcher tests the effects of different reinforcement schedules on rats in a maze. The rats are trained to press a lever for food rewards, with one group receiving reinforcement on a fixed interval schedule (FI) after a specific time has elapsed, while another group receives reinforcement on a variable interval schedule (VI) where the time of reinforcement varies. Despite similar opportunities to press the lever, which group is expected to demonstrate a higher rate of lever pressing during the reinforcement period?

The group on the fixed interval schedule, because they know when to expect reinforcement.

The group on the variable interval schedule, due to unpredictability that encourages consistent behavior.

Both groups will show the same level of lever pressing.

The group on the variable ratio schedule, because they experience partial reinforcement.

Neither group, as both will become satiated and stop pressing the lever.

Hint

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