Test of Everyday Reasoning [TER-25]

Description

The Test of Everyday Reasoning (TER-25) is an assessment instrument designed to measure the ability to apply logical reasoning, critical thinking, and rational judgment to everyday situations. It consists of 25 items based on realistic scenarios that require respondents to analyze available information, compare alternatives, and reach reasoned conclusions.

The instrument does not require specialized knowledge or professional training and can be administered to adolescents and adults. Its items address practical, social, and consumer-related situations, allowing everyday reasoning to be assessed in realistic contexts.

Purpose

The primary purpose of the TER-25 is to assess everyday reasoning and decision-making skills. More specifically, it examines the ability to distinguish relevant from irrelevant information, evaluate alternative courses of action, and justify decisions logically.

The questionnaire may be used in educational, psychological, counseling, and social research, as well as in settings where practical judgment and problem-solving skills are of interest.

Structure

The TER-25 consists of 25 items presenting everyday problems or decision-making situations. It is not formally divided into separate subscales, but it broadly covers abilities such as:

• critical analysis of information,
• evaluation of alternatives,
• justification of decisions,
• practical reasoning,
• drawing rational conclusions.

Scoring

Each response is rated on a 5-point scale from 1 to 5, according to the quality of reasoning and justification:

• 1: illogical or inadequately justified conclusion
• 3: moderately rational response
• 5: highly logical and well-justified conclusion

The total score ranges from 25 to 125. Higher scores indicate stronger logical analysis, rational judgment, and effective decision making in everyday contexts.

Data Analysis and Interpretation

According to the provided material, total scores may be used to differentiate levels of everyday reasoning ability. Typical samples are reported to have mean scores of approximately 85–95.

Higher values, such as around 115, are described as reflecting stronger complex analysis and sound judgment, whereas substantially lower scores may suggest more limited use of logical strategies when dealing with everyday problems.

Validity

The theoretical basis of the TER-25 is linked to concepts of critical thinking, everyday reasoning, and reflective judgment. According to the provided material, its validity has been examined in relation to performance on everyday decision-making and self-regulation tasks.

The material also refers to the use and adaptation of the instrument within the Greek educational context.

Reliability

The provided material reports Cronbach’s alpha coefficients above 0.80, indicating satisfactory to high internal consistency.

It also refers to satisfactory test-retest stability over a period of 2–4 weeks, supporting the consistency of the measure over time.

Applications

The TER-25 may be used in educational assessment, psychological and social research, counseling, and decision-making studies. It may help researchers and practitioners understand how individuals process information and solve problems encountered in everyday life.

The instrument may also be useful for group comparisons, evaluating educational interventions aimed at strengthening critical thinking, and examining factors associated with practical reasoning and rational judgment.

References

Kokkotas, P., Malamitsa, A., & Kasoutas, M. (2021). The Development of Logical Thinking through Educational Programs. National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Publications.

Denney, N. W. (1994). Everyday Reasoning and Judgment: A Cognitive Perspective. Cambridge University Press.

King, P. M., & Kitchener, K. S. (1994). Developing Reflective Judgment: Understanding and Promoting Intellectual Growth and Critical Thinking in Adolescents and Adults. Jossey-Bass.

Torrance, E. P. (1995). Everyday Reasoning: Enhancing Thinking and Problem Solving Skills. HarperCollins.

Keywords

Everyday reasoning, critical thinking, decision making, practical reasoning, questionnaire, assessment scale, psychometric instrument, educational assessment, reliability, validity, quantitative research, data analysis, counseling, research methodology.