What is a stimulus in learning theories?
A stimulus that elicits a behaviour
Can be verbal, physical (hand actions), or environmental (e.g., curb-place for dog to sit).
What is the purpose of a precise, consistent signal in training methods?
To pinpoint the exact moment an animal performs a desired behaviour
Examples include using a clicker or saying ‘yes’.
What are the characteristics of desired behaviour in training?
- Can be done in all environments
- Can be used by other people
- Animal responds quickly
- Doesn’t get distracted
- Does it for however long is needed
- Should not require food always
These characteristics define a well-trained behaviour.
Fill in the blank: Start simple, fraction of final behaviour to _______ until the final behaviour is achieved.
build upon
This approach helps in gradually training the animal.
What is a well-trained behaviour?
A behaviour that meets specific characteristics
These include being performed in various environments and being usable by different people.
What is the most common method for training a behavior?
Shaping by successive approximation
This method involves gradually guiding the animal towards the desired behavior.
In the capturing method, what should you do when the behavior happens?
Reinforce immediately
This method involves waiting for a behavior to occur naturally and rewarding it right away.
List the steps on how to use the capturing method.
- Wait for behavior
- Reinforce immediately
- Repeat as often as possible
- Add a cue just before behavior is about to happen
This approach helps in guiding the animal into the desired position or behavior.
How do you use the shaping method?
- Wait for small increments of the behavior
- Reinforce
- No prompts/lures to start the process
- Wait for the next increment, slowly increase criteria
This method emphasizes gradual progress towards the desired behavior.
