Relational Reasoning: A Foundation for Higher Cognition Based on Abstraction. Issue 2 (20th April 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kalra, Priya B.; Richland, Lindsey E.
• Other Names: Kalra Prya guestEditor.; Richland Lindsey guestEditor.
• Is Part Of: Mind, brain and education. Volume 16:Issue 2(2022)
• Page Start: 149
• Page End: 152
• Publication Date: 2022-04-20
• Subjects: Cognitive learning -- Periodicals; Education -- Research -- Periodicals; Developmental psychobiology -- Periodicals; Cognitive neuroscience -- Periodicals; Cognitive science -- Periodicals; Apprentissage cognitif -- Périodiques; Éducation -- Recherche -- Périodiques; Psychobiologie du développement -- Périodiques; Neurosciences cognitives -- Périodiques; Sciences cognitives -- Périodiques; 612.8233
• DOI: 10.1111/mbe.12323
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1751-2271

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This article provides an introduction to the special issue on relational reasoning. It first provides a definition of relational reasoning, and provides a conceptual framework for relational reasoning research as follows: The ability to represent concepts abstractly is critical for relational reasoning. Relational reasoning in turn provides a foundation for higher cognitive abilities such as language, and analogical reasoning. Understanding relational concepts is also crucial for STEM education. Experience, including formal education, may enhance relational reasoning ability, which in turn may facilitate future learning, forming a positive feedback loop. Creative problem‐solving or reasoning can also be defined in terms of abstraction or semantic distance, providing an important link between relational reasoning and creativity. Each of the articles in the special issue is briefly discussed and framed within these concepts. Lay Abstract: This article provides an introduction to the special issue on Relational Reasoning in Mind, Brain, and Education. It provides a definition of relational reasoning and a conceptual framework, as well as a brief discussion of the articles that make up the special issue.