What is an example of using multiple exemplars in teaching verbal operants?

Using various examples like "apple," "banana," and "orange" for "fruit" is an effective demonstration of employing multiple exemplars in teaching verbal operants. This approach allows learners to generalize the concept of "fruit" beyond just one specific instance.

When multiple exemplars are presented, they create a broader understanding of a category by showcasing different members of that category. In this case, by presenting various fruits, the learner can identify common characteristics among them, which not only reinforces the concept of "fruit" but also facilitates flexibility in their verbal behavior. This technique enhances the learner’s ability to respond correctly to different stimuli that fall under the same conceptual umbrella, ultimately leading to a richer understanding and more robust language use.

The other options do not embody the use of multiple exemplars effectively; teaching one specific word is too narrow, focusing solely on sounds lacks context that supports verbal operants, and encouraging personal interpretations can lead to varied understandings that do not promote consistent learning of the language or concepts.