theorieweergave

Theorieweergave is the process and outcome of presenting a theory in a form suitable for analysis, evaluation, and communication. In Dutch-language discussions, the term covers the range of representations through which theoretical constructs are made intelligible, comparable, and testable. It encompasses linguistic descriptions, mathematical notation, diagrammatic models, simulations, and narrative explanations.

Representations can be symbolic, such as equations and logical formulas; diagrammatic, including graphs, causal diagrams, and flowcharts; or narrative, where concepts are described in prose. Computational representations, like simulations and code, are increasingly common in fields that rely on predictive models.

Functions of theorieweergave include clarifying concepts, deriving predictions, guiding experiments, enabling critique and replication, and facilitating communication across disciplines. The choice of representation often reflects disciplinary conventions, epistemic goals, and practical constraints, and different representations can highlight different aspects of a theory.

Philosophical and methodological work on theorieweergave investigates how well a representation corresponds to the underlying theory and how much of the world it captures or abstracts away. It also addresses issues of underdetermination, accessibility, and the potential for multiple legitimate representations of the same theory.

Applications range from science education and cognitive science to engineering and policy analysis. Effective theorieweergave supports learning, collaboration, and progress by making theoretical ideas usable and testable across contexts.