What schedule of reinforcement is characterized by providing reinforcement after a fixed amount of time?

The schedule of reinforcement that is characterized by providing reinforcement after a fixed amount of time is known as a Fixed Interval Schedule. This type of reinforcement schedule means that the first response that occurs after the specified time period will receive reinforcement. For example, if a reinforcement is provided every five minutes, learners will be likely to respond more frequently as the interval approaches, reinforcing the behavior right after this fixed time has elapsed.

This schedule directly ties the timing of reinforcement to the completion of a specific time interval, which creates a predictable pattern of reinforcement that can shape behavior. In contrast to a variable interval schedule, where reinforcement occurs at unpredictable times, the fixed interval schedule provides a consistent timeframe, allowing individuals to anticipate reinforcement based on the known duration. Thus, with a Fixed Interval Schedule, individuals become conditioned to respond when they believe reinforcement is imminent.