8.2

Question 1

shaping

Answer 1

best used when desired performance is a long way from current performance

-differential reinforcement of successive approximations to a terminal behavior

Question 2

terminal behavior

Answer 2

ultimate performance

Question 3

approximation

Answer 3

behavior that falls short of that ultimate performance

Question 4

series of successive approximations

Answer 4

start small and gradually improve by reinforcing slightly smaller performances

Question 5

flow

Answer 5

state in which one feels immersed in a rewarding activity and in which we lose track of time and self

-occurs if task is not too easy or difficult

-naturally arranges proximal goals (contingency arranging a conditioned reinforcer on the way)

-provides immediate task-relevant consequences for person’s behavior when individual loses the immediate, contingent consequence of an unskillful response
–or is contingent on skillful response

-can be created by effective shaping

Question 6

6 principles of effective shaping

Answer 6

1) objectively define terminal behavior

2) what dimension does the learner’s current behavior fall short of terminal behavior?

3) when mapping out successive approximations, ensure that each one is neither too easy or difficult

4) differential reinforcement
-reinforce current approximation and extinguish all else

5) ensure learner mastered each approximation before advancing to next one

6) if next approximation proves too difficult (extinction), lower reinforcement criterion until responding earns reinforcers again

Question 7

percentile schedule of reinforcement

Answer 7

simple automated training technique incorporating the 6 principles of effective shaping