Computational simulation and the search for a quantitative description of simple reinforcement schedules
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We aim to discuss schedules of reinforcement in its theoretical and practical terms pointing to practical limitations on implementing those schedules while discussing the advantages of computational simulation. In this paper, we present a R script named Beak, built to simulate rates of behavior interacting with schedules of reinforcement. Using Beak, we've simulated data that allows an assessment of different reinforcement feedback functions (RFF). This was made with unparalleled precision, since simulations provide huge samples of data and, more importantly, simulated behavior isn't changed by the reinforcement it produces. Therefore, we can vary it systematically. We've compared different RFF for RI schedules, using as criteria: meaning, precision, parsimony and generality. Our results indicate that the best feedback function for the RI schedule was published by Baum (1981). We also propose that the model used by Killeen (1975) is a viable feedback function for the RDRL schedule. We argue that Beak paves the way for greater understanding of schedules of reinforcement, addressing still open questions about quantitative features of schedules. Also, they could guide future experiments that use schedules as theoretical and methodological tools.
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