An intermittent schedule of reinforcement where reinforcement becomes available after an average number of responses. In other words the number of responses required prior to reinforcement varies but, on average, occurs at a similar frequency (for example, VR 10 requires an average of 10 responses for reinforcement). This is among the most powerful schedules of…

A book written by B.F. Skinner that describes a behavioral approach to language. It emphasizes the idea that communication is a behavior that follows the same laws and principles as other forms of behavior.

Behavior that is effective only through the mediation of another person (listener) who has been specifically trained to reinforce the behavior. It encompasses terms such as language, speech, talking, comprehension, memory, etc. It can involve speaking but also includes sign language, writing, picture communication systems, Braille, and so forth.

A cue that is meant to be seen and that has behavior-altering effects. This may take the form, for example, of a culturally accepted symbol such as a “stop sign,” or may take the form of something designed for an individual teaching program. For example, holding up a picture of a cat when asked, “What…

Responses that involve movements of the lungs, larynx, tongue, and lips in order to produce a sound (an auditory response product). Vocal responses include talking out loud, singing, babbling, screaming, etc