Variable Schedule

Operant Conditioning: A method of learning that occurs through rewards and punishments for behavior. Through operant conditioning, an individual makes an association between a particular behavior and a consequence.

Reinforcement: In operant conditioning, reinforcement is any event that strengthens or increases the behavior it follows.

Schedule of Reinforcement: The specific pattern of presenting reinforcers over time. This could be based on the passage of time (interval) or the number of responses made (ratio).