
Sue H. answered 07/20/19
Learning Specialist - Tutor and Consultant About Special Needs
Transductive reasoning is a form of logic frequently used by young children. They form inferences or logical conclusions that may or may not be accurate based on the information they already know.Some examples could be that the mail carrier brings mail in the afternoon. One day the mail comes in the morning, but the child determines that it is afternoon and it is time to get ready to go to a swimming lesson. Another example could be that since a shirt has stars and pants have stars, they must make a good outfit even if the colors clash.
Transductive reasoning is an important stage of development. It shows a child is forming logical, cause/effect thinking. The inaccurate conclusions are often very cute and funny, but can give parents and teachers the indication that executive functions in the brain are working well.