A researcher is trying to get a pigeon to play "Joy to the World" on a toy piano.If the pigeon plays the first note followed by a reinforcer,and then the pigeon plays the first and second note followed by a reinforcer,the researcher is most likely using:
A) classical conditioning
B) shaping
C) cognitive theory
D) stimulus substitution

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This scenario describes the process of shaping, where the researcher is reinforcing closer and closer approximations to the desired behavior (playing "Joy to the World" on the toy piano). By reinforcing the pigeon for playing the first note and then for playing the first and second note, the researcher is gradually shaping the behavior towards the desired end goal. Classical conditioning involves pairing an unconditioned stimulus with a neutral stimulus to create a conditioned response, which is not reflected in this scenario. Cognitive theory deals with mental processes, which are not applicable to a pigeon's behavior. Stimulus substitution is not a recognized theory in psychology.

A Researcher Is Trying to Get a Pigeon to Play