Abstract
The prediction of Estes’ generalized statistical learning theory was verified in a condition in which probability of reinforcement was a noncontingent, linear, periodic function of trials. A strong “probability tracking” effect in which the mean response function approximated the reinforcing event function with a constant tracking “lag” was obtained as expected. An estimate of the stimulus sampling ratio, a parameter of theoretical importance, was obtained from the data.
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A preliminary report of this study was read by the author at the Spartan Psychological Association Meeting, May 20, 1968, San Jose, California.
This study was conducted under the supervision of Professor Robert S. Witte.
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Buggie, S.E. Probability tracking of a linear periodic reinforcement schedule. Psychon Sci 15, 318–319 (1969). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03336319
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03336319