A fuzzy cognitive map for simulating hypothesis verification in the conduct of inquiry

In the quantitative research hypothesis verification is often based on hypothetico-deductive method that is a modification of the bivalent modus tollens reasoning. Since this method only provides a partial resolution, a more general approximate reasoning approach is suggested and it is also simulated with a fuzzy cognitive map. These considerations are carried out from the standpoint of philosophy of science, and thus meta-level resolutions are provided. The results facilitate us in theory formation and model construction as well as are usable in the students´ intelligent learning materials on methodology because we may study this subject matter fluently in a computer environment. These ideas, in turn, may be applied to infocommunications, in particular to e-learning.