Abstract
A basic apparatus is described for programming events (discriminative stimuli, reinforcements, etc.) automatically. An indefinitely long sequence of dichotomous events can be scheduled with any distribution desired, by means of pre-punched cards. Manual overrides are provided for each automatic function of the programmer, and the state of the system and location of the program are continuously displayed. It is suggested that the unit is of most value in studies employing fixed and changing schedules of partial reinforcement, in probability learning studies, and in other situations requiring noncontingent reinforcement. Auxiliary apparatus used in studying response sequences under noncontingent reinforcement is described, and circuits for construction are specified.
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