The Ultimate Reinforcement Schedules Showdown ➠ FT/VT vs. FI/VI

Question: What is the difference between FT and VT schedules and FI and VI schedules?

FT and VT is referring to fixed time and variable time, and FI and VI is referring to fixed interval and variable interval.

Answer: Although the words “time” and “interval” both refer to time-based reinforcement delivery, the distinction is which point in time that reinforcement is delivered. With fixed time and variable time schedules, we’ve got non-contingent schedules of reinforcement. That means reinforcement is contingent on the passage of time and not on behavior. Reinforcement is delivered ahead of the behavior. And again, this is the schedule for a non-contingent reinforcement procedure.

The fixed interval and variable interval schedules are reinforcement schedules that are contingent on correct behavior. So, reinforcement on these schedules comes after a correct response or a correct behavior.

  • Fixed Interval
  • Fixed Time
  • Schedules of Reinforcement
  • Variable Interval
  • Variable Time

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