B.10 Identify and distinguish among concurrent, multiple, mixed, and chained schedules of reinforcement

While simple reinforcement schedules focus on single patterns, complex schedules of reinforcement combine different rules. These schedules are used when behaviors require multitasking, flexibility, or progression through multiple steps.

Types of Complex ReinforcementSchedules	Multiple Schedules Two or more schedules alternate, with a clear signal or cue indicating which schedule is active. *Example: A teacher alternates between praising students during group work and giving free time during individual work. A bell or verbal cue signals the transition. Purpose: Teaches adaptability and flexibility by helping individuals recognize and respond to changes in expectations.	Concurrent Schedules Two or more schedules operate simultaneously, giving the individual a choice of behaviors. Example: A student can choose to complete math problems for points or read a book for a prize. *Purpose: Encourages decision-making and prioritization by allowing individuals to select the most rewarding option.
Mixed Schedules Similar to multiple schedules, but there’s no clear signal indicating the switch between tasks or schedules. *Example: A dog alternates between receiving treats for sitting quietly and fetching a ball, but no cue tells it when reinforcement will change. Purpose: Builds persistence and teaches individuals to maintain behavior even without external cues	Tandem Tandem Schedule: Two or more reinforcement schedules are completed in sequence, but no specific cues or signals indicate when one part of the sequence ends and the next begins. *Example: A student must complete a set of math problems and then clean up their desk to earn a reward. No explicit instructions or signals indicate the transition between the tasks—the student simply continues until both tasks are complete. Purpose: Reinforces multi-step behaviors while teaching individuals to persist through tasks without relying on cues.	Chained Schedules Two or more tasks are completed in a sequence, with reinforcement provided only after the entire sequence is finished. Each step may have its own cue. *Example: A child must: Complete their homework. Set the dinner table. Clean their room. Once all tasks are completed, they earn extra screen time. Purpose: Encourages task completion and helps individuals master multi-step activities.

🔑Key Differences Between These Schedules🔑

Schedule	Key Feature	Example
Concurrent	Choice between schedules	Completing math for points or reading for a prize.
Multiple	Alternating schedules with cues	Praise during one task, free time during another.
Mixed	Alternating schedules, no cues	Treats for behavior, no signal for the switch.
Chained	Sequential tasks with cues	Completing homework, setting the table, and cleaning to earn rewards.
Tandem	Sequential tasks, no cues	Completing math problems and cleaning a desk to earn a reward, without signals for transitions.

Reminders 🧠🧠

• Concurrent schedules teach decision-making.

• Multiple schedules foster adaptability.

• Mixed schedules promote persistence.

• Chained schedules are ideal for breaking complex tasks into manageable steps.

• Tandem schedules encourage persistence through sequences without relying on external guidance.