Auto-shaping a simple operant in humans using slide presentation as a reinforcer : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Education at Massey University

Abstract

Using slide presentation as a reinforcer a simple operant was auto-shaped in human subjects. The operant (bar tapping) was established, for most subjects, in an auto-shaping technique where a discriminative stimulus (SD) was available. In this technique a response made in the presence of SD was immediately reinforced. However, where no response was emitted in the presence of SD the procedure was recycled, i.e. Chain FT 10-sec. (darkness) FT 10-sec. (SD), with no reinforcement delivered. Response-independent schedules (FT 10-sec.) were used (i) for an analysis of supersitutious responding, and (ii) for a control condition. Responding was not maintained under the non-contingent conditions but was re-established under the response-contingent (training) schedules. The educational implications of auto-shaping are discussed.