A microcomputer-based learning task for investigating the effects of reinforcement on children's learning and persistence

摘要

A highly interesting and flexible microcomputer-based learning task was created and software designed in order to study and record systematically how schedules of reinforcement affect children's learning. The software was developed to be used on an IBM PC AT with an IBM Enhanced Graphics Adaptor with 256K of Graphics Memory. In addition, a large virtual disk was created to allow for easy and quick access to the image files. To depict the workings of the task, a data flow diagram of the total system is presented, a detailed flow chart of the workings of the main program is illustrated, and a flow chart of movement through an individual trial presentation is described. Parameters of the learning task that can be specified by the user are specified and alternative applications are proposed.