Shaping

Developed by B.F. Skinner. Reinforcing successive approximations toward a target behavior. Skinner used this to teach pigeons to play ping-pong and even guide missiles (Project Pigeon). Steps: 1. Define the target behavior 2. Start with what the subject already does 3. Reinforce each step closer to goal 4. Gradually raise the criteria Applications: Animal training, rehabilitation, education, habit formation The scientific basis for 'the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.'