Learning through Operant Conditioning
To understand we must look at the laws that control the relationship between two variables: When an experiment is conducted, the independent variable(s) are manipulated by the experimenter, and dependant variables are measured from the subjects. Skinners system described the independent variables as the type of reinforcement, and schedules of reinforcement, and the dependent variables as acquisition rate, rate of responding, and extinction rate.
Reinforcement
Skinners explanation of learning through operant conditioning is based on the notion that 'the consequences of behaviour determine the probability that the behaviour will occur again (Lefrancois, 1995,pg 95). Skinner proposes two types of that increase the likelihood of a response occurring: positive, and negative. Positive reinforcement (reward) involves a positive consequence of behaviour. In contrast, a negative reinforcement (Relief) involves a behaviour that results in the elimination or prevention of a negative outcome. (Lefrancois, 1995).
Punishment
Like reinforcement, can also determine the probability of whether behaviour will occur again. There are two types of punishment. One can be termed negative punishment, and involves the cessation of a positive event as a result of responding (Kentridge, 1995). For example, a reprimanded for bad behaviour. The other can be termed punishment, and involves a negative or aversive event in relation to responding (Kentridge, 1995). For example, receiving a fine for exceeding the speed limit. Punishment tends to suppress behaviour rather than strengthen.
Reinforcement Schedules
Studies of identify the various ways in which the environment makes reinforcement determine how we behave. There are four basic schedules that produce different response patterns: Fixed-Ratio (FR) involves reinforcement, which is based on a fixed number of responses. Fixed-Interval (FI) is reinforcement based on a fixed time, for instance the first correct response following a 10-minute interval. Variable-Ratio (VR) is similar to Fixed-Ratio, however the number of responses required varies between reinforcements. Variable-Internal (VI) is similar to Fixed Interval; however, the intervals vary between reinforcers around some specified average value. Schedules of reinforcement can be related to affects on responding behaviour, such as Acquisition, , and Extinction. Acquisition is the addition of a new behaviour to an organism's repertoire (Catania,1992). Extinction, in Skinner's system occurs when a reinforcement that has been given in the past to elicit a certain response, is eliminated, or stopped.
Summary
In summary, Skinner's theory explains the behaviour of humans and animals in terms of the responses of the organisms to external stimuli. Learning takes place as a result of the organism responding on its environment. Skinner described this phenomenon as - operant conditioning. Operant conditioning looks at the different affects types of reinforcement (positive and negative), and schedules of reinforcement (Ratio and Interval, Fixed, and Variable) have on an individual or animals behaviour regarding acquisition, rate of responding, and extinction rate. Events that increase the likelihood of a response are termed reinforcers. Reinforcers can be either positive, or negative, and can be highly effective for modifying behaviour. The removal of an unpleasant stimulus, or presentation of an unpleasant stimulus following behaviour involves punishment. Punishment does not increase the probability of a response occurring.