Define operant conditioning. Discuss the factors that influence the course of operant conditioning.

Operant conditioning, also known as instrumental conditioning, is a type of learning process in which the strength of a behavior is modified by its consequences, such as reward or punishment. This form of conditioning involves the use of reinforcement or punishment to either increase or decrease the likelihood of a behavior reoccurring.

The process of operant conditioning consists of three main components: a stimulus, a response, and a consequence. The stimulus is the event or situation that triggers the response. The response is the behavior that is triggered by the stimulus. The consequence is the outcome that follows the response.

There are several factors that influence the course of operant conditioning:

1. Reinforcement: This is a consequence that increases the likelihood of a behavior. It can be positive (adding a desirable stimulus) or negative (removing an undesirable stimulus).

2. Punishment: This is a consequence that decreases the likelihood of a behavior. It can also be positive (adding an undesirable stimulus) or negative (removing a desirable stimulus).

3. Schedules of reinforcement: This refers to how often and under what conditions a behavior is reinforced. There are four basic types: fixed-ratio, variable-ratio, fixed-interval, and variable-interval.

4. Shaping: This involves reinforcing behaviors that are closer to the target behavior. It's a way of gradually teaching a new behavior.

5. Extinction: This occurs when the reinforcement of a previously reinforced behavior is discontinued, which results in the decrease of that behavior.

6. Generalization and Discrimination: Generalization is the tendency to respond in the same way to different but similar stimuli. Discrimination is the ability to differentiate between a conditioned stimulus and other irrelevant stimuli.

7. Motivation: The individual's desire or willingness to perform a behavior can also influence operant conditioning.

8. Previous learning: Past experiences can affect how quickly and effectively new behaviors are learned.

These factors can all influence the effectiveness of operant conditioning and the speed at which learning occurs.