Response sequence learning as a function of primary versus conditioned reinforcement

Abstract

Two groups of pigeons were required to generate a fixed sequence of responses on three keys, for example, middle-left-right. One group received a small food reward (SFood) following each correct response except the terminal one, which was followed by a large food reward. The second group received conditioned reinforcement from an overhead light (SLight) for each correct response, with the terminal correct response followed by both SLight and the large food reward. We manipulated length of sequence (3 or 7 responses) and duration of required interresponse interval (IRI; 1 to 9 sec). SLight contingencies generated more accurate performances than did SFood when sequence length was 3 responses but not when it was 7 responses. IRI duration influenced accuracy under the SLight contingencies but not under SFood. These results show that conditioned reinforcers sometimes generate more accurate sequence learning than do primary reinforcers, and that schedule contigencies influence which type of feedback will optimize performance. The results parallel those from the matching-to-sample and conditional discrimination literature.