Concepts · Domain B
Ratio vs. interval schedules
The difference in short
Ratio and interval schedules define when the reinforcer is delivered. In a ratio schedule, it depends on the number of responses. In an interval schedule, it depends on time passing and then a response. Ratio = how many responses; interval = how much time plus one response.
Quick comparison
| Ratio schedule | Interval schedule | |
|---|---|---|
| Operation | Reinforcer depends on the number of responses | Depends on time passing + one response |
| Effect | High rates; on fixed ratio, a pause after each reinforcer | Lower rates; on fixed interval, a pause and then acceleration toward the end of the interval |
| Example | You're paid for every 10 parts you assemble. | You check email: new messages arrive with time, not from checking more. |
How to tell them apart
- Does the reinforcer depend on HOW MANY responses (ratio) or on TIME passing (interval)?
Examples
Ratio schedule
You're paid for every 10 parts you assemble.
Interval schedule
You check email: new messages arrive with time, not from checking more.
Frequently asked
Why do ratio schedules produce more responses?
Because the reinforcer depends directly on how much you respond: more responses, more reinforcers. On interval schedules, extra responding doesn't speed up the reinforcer.
Related concepts
Practice discrimination, not just definitions
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