In a reinforcement schedule, reinforcing a behavior after some but not all correct responses is known as what type of schedule?

Reinforcing a behavior after some but not all correct responses is known as a variable schedule. This type of reinforcement schedule is characterized by the unpredictability of when the reinforcement will occur, which can create a more robust and sustained response from the subject being reinforced.

In a variable schedule, the timing or frequency of reinforcement varies around an average. This variability encourages the subject to continue exhibiting the desired behavior, as it keeps the subject guessing when the next reinforcement might occur, leading to a strong and persistent response. This is often applied in scenarios such as gambling, where rewards are inconsistent but have the potential to occur, keeping players engaged longer.

In contrast, a fixed schedule provides reinforcement after a set number of responses or a specific time has elapsed, leading to more predictable and sometimes less sustained responses. A continuous schedule provides reinforcement after every correct response, which can quickly establish behavior but may not maintain it as effectively over the long term. A static schedule is not a recognized term in reinforcement theory, and therefore does not apply.