Extinction, delay, and partial-reinforcement effects in paired-associate learning

Abstract

A theoretical framework is presented for comparing human paired-associate learning (PAL) with animal instrumental learning. The informational aspects of reinforcement are emphasized and reinforcement is considered to be an internal event which derives from, but is not necessarily isomorphic with, E's feedback to S. Three experiments are reported which demonstrate extinction, delay of reinforcement, and partial-reinforcement effects in PAL.