Positive Reinforcement Methods Flashcards
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Read the first 7 Positive Reinforcement Methods flashcards as text
What is the term for the process of teaching a dog to associate a neutral stimulus (like a clicker) with a primary reinforcer?
Answer: Classical conditioning
Classical conditioning pairs a neutral stimulus with a primary reinforcer until the neutral stimulus elicits the same response, which is how clicker training works.
A dog consistently sits when asked but only in the kitchen. What training concept does this illustrate?
Answer: Stimulus generalization failure
Stimulus generalization failure occurs when a dog performs a behavior in one context but hasn't learned to generalize it to other environments.
Which reinforcement schedule produces behavior most resistant to extinction?
Answer: Variable ratio
Variable ratio schedules produce the highest response rates and greatest resistance to extinction because reinforcement is unpredictable.
When fading a lure, the recommended sequence is to:
Answer: Fade the lure gradually over several sessions before adding the cue
The lure should be faded gradually over multiple repetitions and sessions so the dog learns to perform the behavior without food in hand before the cue is added.
What is the primary purpose of a 'keep going signal' (KGS) in positive reinforcement training?
Answer: To tell the dog it is on the right track and reinforcement is coming
A keep going signal (KGS) lets the dog know it is performing correctly and that reinforcement will follow if it continues.
In shaping, what does 'rate of reinforcement' refer to?
Answer: How frequently the dog earns reinforcement per unit of time
Rate of reinforcement refers to how often the dog earns a reward per minute, which directly affects learning speed and motivation.
A trainer wants to increase the duration of a 'sit-stay.' Which approach best follows shaping principles?
Answer: Reinforce progressively longer stays while rarely exceeding the dog's current threshold
Shaping duration means reinforcing slightly longer stays incrementally, keeping the dog successful by not exceeding its current capability too quickly.