At the start of the term, many students engage in little or no studying. This is followed by a gradual increase in studying as the first exam approaches. This pattern of studying most closely approximates the response pattern produced by a _____ schedule of reinforcement.
A) fixed ratio
B) variable interval
C) variable ratio
D) fixed interval

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This pattern of studying increases as a specific time (the first exam) approaches, which is characteristic of a fixed interval schedule of reinforcement. In a fixed interval schedule, responses are reinforced after a specific amount of time has passed, leading to an increase in behavior right before the reinforcement (exam) is expected.

At the Start of the Term, Many Students Engage in Little