Laws of Shaping

Question 1

Law 1

Answer 1

Raise criteria gradually. Animal always has a realistic chance for reinforcement.
Ex: sugar gliders glide

Question 2

Law 2

Answer 2

Train ONE aspect of a behavior at a time
Ex: Nova squeeze chute

Question 3

Law 3

Answer 3

When shaping a behavior, use a variable reinforcement schedule for the current level of response BEFORE adding or raising criteria.
Ex: Val leash on

Question 4

Law 4

Answer 4

When introducing a new aspect of a behavior, temporarily relax the old criteria
Ex: Puppy different location for same behavior

Question 5

Law 5

Answer 5

Plan out entire shaping can be prepared for sudden progress
Ex: Miki golf

Question 6

Law 6

Answer 6

Don’t change trainers midstream: One shaper per behavior

Question 7

Law 7

Answer 7

If one shaping procedure isn’t working, try another
Ex: Orville maze

Question 8

Law 8

Answer 8

Don’t interrupt a training session without good reason; this translates as punishment
(End of session signal)

Question 9

Law 9

Answer 9

If behavior deteriorates, review the whole shaping process with a series of easily earned reinforcement

Question 10

Law 10

Answer 10

End session on a good note