Final answer:
Noncontingent Reinforcement (NCR) is used as a control condition to show the effects of reinforcement, without the necessity of the subject's behavior triggering the reinforcement, unlike in typical operant conditioning. This technique is used to contrast with a baseline condition and allows researchers to understand learning and behavioral effects more accurately.
Step-by-step explanation:
The experimental technique in question refers to Noncontingent Reinforcement (NCR), whereby reinforcement is given at fixed intervals or on a variable schedule without direct linkage to the occurrence of a specific behavior. NCR can be used as a control condition to demonstrate the effects of reinforcement by showing that the delivery of reinforcers independently of the participant's behavior may produce different outcomes compared to when the reinforcement is contingent upon a certain behavior, as in operant conditioning.
In classical and operant conditioning experiments, this use of NCR as a control stands in contrast to a baseline condition where no reinforcement is provided at all. For example, in classical conditioning experiments like those conducted by Ivan Pavlov, conditioning involves pairing a neutral stimulus (like a bell) with an unconditioned stimulus (like food) which naturally elicits an unconditioned response (like salivation in dogs). Conversely, with operant conditioning, a behavior is strengthened or weakened through the use of reinforcement or punishment after the behavior occurs. A variable interval reinforcement schedule or a variable ratio reinforcement schedule in operant conditioning both depend on the behavior occurring before the reinforcement is given, while NCR does not.
The use of NCR as a control condition allows researchers to more accurately assess the role of intentionality and anticipation in learning, as seen in latent learning experiments by Tolman. Latent learning is the process of learning that occurs without immediate reinforcement and becomes apparent only when there is a reason to demonstrate it. The use of a control group receiving NCR allows comparisons to be made with an experimental group receiving contingent reinforcement and illuminates the different learning and behavior effects.