Derek D. Reed & Brian K. Martens. (2008).
Sensitivity and bias under conditions of equal and unequal academic task difficulty.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis,
41, 39-52.
We conducted an experimental analysis of children’s relative problem-completion
rates across two workstations under conditions of equal (Experiment 1) and
unequal (Experiment 2) problem difficulty. Results were described using the
generalized matching equation and were evaluated for degree of schedule versus
stimulus control. Experiment 1 involved a symmetrical choice arrangement in
which the children could earn points exchangeable for rewards contingent on
correct math problem completion. Points were delivered according to signaled
variable-interval schedules at each workstation. For 2 children, relative rates of
problem completion appeared to have been controlled by the schedule requirements
in effect and matched relative rates of reinforcement, with sensitivity values near 1
and bias values near 0. Experiment 2 involved increasing the difficulty of math
problems at one of the workstations. Sensitivity values for all 3 participants were
near 1, but a substantial increase in bias toward the easier math problems was
observed. This bias was possibly associated with responding at the more
difficult workstation coming under stimulus control rather than schedule control.
DESCRIPTORS: choice, effort, generalized matching equation,
math problem completion, schedule control