In the video for this lesson you will learn about some specific aspects of clicker training using a case study with T-lo the cat. You will see a clicker being used to train behaviors such as targeting, stationing, and T-lo volunteeringly entering a crate. We additionally will cover the following topics;
- Building the reinforcing strength of a clicker.
- Charging the clicker.
- Timing.
- Benefits of the clicker.
NOTE: Although this case study is on a domestic cat the principles are universally applicable for all animals.
VIDEO – CASE STUDY (T-LO THE CAT)
CLICKER TRAINING – Charging the clicker.
You might hear people use the term “Charging the clicker.” What this refers to is maintaining a high reinforcing value for the clicker through many repetitions/pairings of it with a primary reinforcer (or other already established reinforcer). For example, food. This is frequently done right at the start of any training program that utilises a clicker. Its purpose is to communicate to your animal that the click sound has value and to build the association that the click means positive reinforcement is on its way.
CLICKER TRAINING – Timing
Timing is as important in clicker training as it is in any training you are ever going to do.
One important aspect to consider when using a clicker is to ensure we keep the hand with the food in it still until after the sound of the clicker. (Assuming that you are using food and also delivering the food with your hand). A great way to tell if you have your timing correct is by filming your training and watching it back. You can see a great example of this in the video for this lesson.
CLICKER TRAINING – Benefits of the clicker
Clickers provide our animals with a novel, sharp and distinct sound that we can use to communicate to them exactly when they have done the correct behavior. This can be especially beneficial if our animals can’t see us or they are not in our immediate vicinity. In these situations its common that we cannot deliver reinforcement to them immediately after they perform a desirable behavior and the clicker can consequently bridge that gap.
CLICK HERE to take the free quiz for this lesson.
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