Asked by Jaelyn Willard on Jun 04, 2024
Verified
An animal trainer is teaching a miniature poodle to balance on a ball.Initially,he gives the poodle a treat for approaching the ball,then only for placing its front paws on the ball,and finally only for climbing on the ball.The trainer is using the method of
A) successive approximations.
B) delayed reinforcement.
C) classical conditioning.
D) secondary reinforcement.
Successive Approximations
A method in behavioral psychology where behaviors are gradually modified to achieve a desired behavior through small steps.
Animal Trainer
A professional who applies behavior analysis or other learning techniques to teach or control animals.
Miniature Poodle
A breed of highly intelligent and trainable dog known for its small size and curly, hypoallergenic coat.
- Get to know the fundamental ideas behind operant conditioning.
- Familiarize oneself with the methodologies of shaping and successive approximations employed in behavior modification practices.
Verified Answer
LE
logan evansJun 06, 2024
Final Answer :
A
Explanation :
The method being used by the animal trainer is known as successive approximations, where the desired behavior is broken down into smaller steps and reinforced incrementally. In this case, the poodle is being reinforced for approaching the ball, placing its front paws on the ball, and eventually climbing onto the ball, until the final behavior of balancing on the ball is achieved. This is a common technique used in operant conditioning, particularly in shaping new behaviors. Delayed reinforcement, classical conditioning, and secondary reinforcement are not the most appropriate choices in this scenario.
Learning Objectives
- Get to know the fundamental ideas behind operant conditioning.
- Familiarize oneself with the methodologies of shaping and successive approximations employed in behavior modification practices.