What type of schedule reinforces a behavior on a consistent basis based on time intervals?

The correct answer is an interval schedule because this type of reinforcement schedule delivers rewards based on the passage of time, rather than the number of responses. Specifically, in an interval schedule, the first response after a specified time interval is reinforced. This leads to the behavior being reinforced consistently but not continuously, as reinforcement is based solely on the timing rather than the frequency of behavior.

In contrast, a ratio schedule reinforces behavior based on the number of responses made, not on time intervals. Continuous reinforcement involves providing a reward for every single instance of a behavior, resulting in a much higher rate of reinforcement than an interval schedule. Intermittent reinforcement occurs when responses are reinforced at irregular intervals, making it less predictable and not consistently based on time intervals.