What schedule of reinforcement requires the completion of a specified, unvarying number of responses to produce a reinforcer?

The correct answer is based on the definition of a fixed ratio schedule of reinforcement. In a fixed ratio schedule, a specific, consistent number of responses must occur before a reinforcer is delivered. This means that the individual must demonstrate the exact number of desired behaviors to receive a reward, such as for every five correct responses resulting in a reinforcement.

This type of reinforcement leads to a pattern of responding typically characterized by a high rate of responses, with a pause after the reinforcer is delivered. Understanding this schedule is crucial because it highlights how predictable reinforcement can motivate individuals to complete a certain number of tasks before earning a reward.

Other schedules like variable ratio involve an unpredictable number of responses for reinforcement, leading to a different pattern of behavior. Variable interval schedules provide reinforcement after varying time intervals, and fixed interval schedules offer reinforcement after a specified time period, which does not hinge on the number of responses. Each of these alternative schedules operates under different principles of motivation and behavior shaping.