Which technique is used to progress the repetition range by reinforcing successive approximations toward the target?

• A. Behavior Shaping
• B. Continuous Reinforcement
• C. Successive Approximation
• D. Reward Schedule

Answer: (C)

Progressive reinforcement of closer and closer attempts toward a target is successive approximation. In practice you set a target behavior and reward the dog for actions that get nearer to that target, even if not perfect yet. Each successful step becomes the new standard, and you gradually raise the requirement so the dog must produce more precise or frequent approximations to earn reinforcement. This approach lets the dog build the full target behavior through a chain of small, attainable successes rather than waiting for a perfect performance. While shaping is the broader process that uses this idea, the specific technique of reinforcing successive approximations toward the target is described by successive approximation.