Through experimental research, this project further explores the impact of words used as verbal reinforcers when delivered to participants as they progress through a series of repeated cognitive tasks. Using an operant conditioning (reward training) paradigm, two different variable ratio schedules of reinforcement apply two differing magnitudes of reinforcers in a 2 X 2 (with control group) factorial design.
This current project replicates the design of two prior studies, however revised and validated sets of verbal reinforcers are included along with an updated version of the task. In addition, human voices are used to deliver the reinforcers rather than the originally used speech synthesizer.
The task consists of iteratively matching individually presented geometric shapes (stimuli) with an array of different shapes (response) in a computer-mediated environment. Correct responses are rewarded with vocalized single word reinforcers via auditory headsets according to one of five reinforcement conditions (two schedules, two magnitudes of reinforcers, one control group with no vocalized reinforcers).
The reinforcers are positively regarded words validated in three prior, independent studies. One set was routinely rated significantly higher in magnitude than the other, designated as HMR (high magnitude reinforcer) and LMR (low magnitude reinforcer). Schedules include a VR-5 and VR-15 (variable ratio 5 and 15) and are employed to differentiate impact where HMRs and LMRs are employed in each schedule under separate treatments (HMR with VR-5; HMR with VR-15; LMR with VR-5; LMR with VR-15; and a control group with no vocalized reinforcer).
Two outcomes measure number of correct responses (implicitly measuring error rates) and time on task. As in prior studies, performance under high magnitude reinforcers is expected dominate low under both schedules, and outcomes with either set of vocalized reinforcers are expected to dominate those of the control group.
The implications of this research extend to the practice of management where managers and co-workers can positively influence the outcomes in the work environment by using appropriate words and the timing of their delivery. Over-use or effusiveness may be important in the training phase, but maintenance of behaviors may require less of both. This stream of research aims to address these and other questions.
Topics: Management and Health Care Management - click here when done
It_s_what_you_say_that_counts_2017_SEINFORMS_Final_Submission.pdf 