Is Ending Training Sessions with a Correct Trial a Strong Predictor of Subsequent Trial Success?

Abstract

The basic operant conditioning paradigm states that behavior is followed by consequences and when these consequences are reinforcing, the likelihood of the behavior occurring again increases. Animal trainers have been in disagreement regarding whether ending a session with a correct trail is or is not a strong predictor of success in subsequent training sessions. The present study examined if the canines? first trials in subsequent training sessions would be effected by ending with either a correct or incorrect trial.