reason

1. n. consecutive thought, as in deduction or induction. Although at one time reason was considered a mental faculty, this meaning is typically not intended in current usage. See deductive reasoning; inductive reasoning.

2. n. in philosophy, the intellect (or nous) regarded as the source of true knowledge. See rationalism.

3. n. soundness of mind.

4. n. a statement offered to justify an action or decision or to explain the occurrence of an event.

5. vb. see reasoning.

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Psychology term of the day

January 28th 2025

summative evaluation

1. the appraisal of a student’s achievement at the conclusion of an educational program. Also called terminal assessment.

2. in evaluation research, an attempt to assess the overall effectiveness of a program in meeting its objectives and goals after it is in operation. This is in contrast to formative evaluation, which is used to help in the development of the program. Also called ex post facto evaluation. See also outcome evaluation.