fixed-interval schedule

[ˈfɪkst ˈɪntərvəl ˈskɛdʒuːl]
nounpl: fixed-interval schedules
esquema de intervalo fixo
1. A reinforcement schedule in operant conditioning where a reward is given after a fixed amount of time has elapsed, regardless of the number of responses made
In a fixed-interval schedule of 5 minutes, the subject receives a reinforcer after every 5-minute period.
Em um esquema de intervalo fixo de 5 minutos, o sujeito recebe um reforçador a cada período de 5 minutos.
2. A behavioral psychology concept used in laboratory research and practical applications to control and predict behavior patterns
The researcher used a fixed-interval schedule to study how animals respond to predictable reinforcement timing.
O pesquisador usou um esquema de intervalo fixo para estudar como os animais respondem ao tempo de reforço previsível.
This is primarily a technical term used in behavioral psychology and animal behavior research. It originated with B.F. Skinner's work at Harvard in the mid-20th century. The concept is fundamental in American behavioral science education and is equally important in Brazilian and Portuguese psychology curricula. The term reflects the scientific approach to understanding behavior through controlled experimental conditions.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
FI schedulefixed-time scheduleinterval reinforcement schedule
Antonyms / Antônimos
variable-interval schedulefixed-ratio schedulevariable-ratio schedule

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
esquema de intervalo fixo
Standard academic and psychological terminology
Portugal
esquema de intervalo fixo
Same standard terminology used in Portuguese psychology
North American English
fixed-interval schedule (FI)
Commonly abbreviated as FI in behavioral research contexts

Related Words

operant conditioningreinforcementbehavioral psychologyB.F. Skinnerscalloping effectschedule of reinforcement

Related Idioms & Phrases

on a fixed schedule
predictable reinforcement pattern
timed reward system
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