shaping

IPA: ʃˈeɪpɪŋ

The action of the verb to shape.
(psychology) A method of positive reinforcement of behaviour patterns in a series of steps in operant conditioning.

Examples of "shaping" in Sentences

So this is part of a process which they call shaping the battlefield.
The more freedom in shaping is given to users (e.g. open source technology), the more knowledge is required to contribute.
Her face seemed to recede in the darkness and rain, the disbelief and injury in her expression shaping and reshaping itself in the overhead light.
The possibilities in "shaping" the latter kind of narrative have by no means been exhausted, although most published novels don't seem much interested in exploring these possibilities.
R-Prime will have a huge role in shaping the American legislative agenda (asserting their balance of power in Congress), and if they are able to stay true to their Contract with America and make a difference, they will be poised for a strong showing in 2012 and 2016.
Apart from stating his belief that Europe should be more involved in shaping a new economic order where financial capitalism should be 'moralised' - which he sees as a justification for further political integration on an European level - Sarkozy also managed once more to give Turkey the cold shoulder treatment.