Research Methods vs. Research Methodology — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on January 1, 2024
Research Methods are the tools used for data collection, while Research Methodology is the overarching strategy and rationale of a study.
Difference Between Research Methods and Research Methodology
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Research Methods are specific techniques or procedures used to gather and analyze data. These methods can be qualitative, like interviews, or quantitative, like surveys.
Research Methodology is the conceptual framework that guides how research is to be conducted. It encompasses the reasoning behind the methods used in a study.
Research Methods are the building blocks of a research project, determining how data is collected, measured, and analyzed.
Research Methodology, on the other hand, provides the philosophical and theoretical basis for the selection of these methods, answering the ‘why’ behind the chosen approach.
While Research Methods are the practical steps taken during research, Research Methodology refers to the philosophical underpinnings that inform and shape these steps.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Techniques for data collection and analysis
Theoretical framework and rationale of the research
Focus
Practical application
Philosophical underpinnings
Types
Qualitative, Quantitative, Mixed
Positivism, Interpretivism, Critical Theory, etc.
Role in Research
Execution of data collection
Guiding the choice and application of methods
Examples
Surveys, Experiments, Interviews
Case Study Methodology, Grounded Theory, Ethnographic Study
Compare with Definitions
Research Methods
Research Methods are techniques for collecting data.
Using surveys is a popular research method.
Research Methodology
Research Methodology is the framework for a study.
The research methodology defined the study's scope.
Research Methods
Research Methods include data analysis procedures.
Statistical analysis is a key research method.
Research Methodology
Research Methodology is the strategy behind research.
The research methodology justified the methods used.
Research Methods
Research Methods are used for data collection.
Interviews are an effective research method.
Research Methodology
Research Methodology provides the rationale for choices.
The research methodology guided the research design.
Research Methods
Research Methods refer to procedural steps in research.
Experiments are a common research method.
Research Methodology
Research Methodology involves philosophical considerations.
The research methodology was based on positivism.
Research Methods
Research Methods are tools for gathering information.
Observations are a valuable research method.
Research Methodology
Research Methodology is a conceptual approach.
The research methodology was grounded in interpretivism.
Common Curiosities
How are Research Methods chosen?
Research Methods are chosen based on the research questions, objectives, and the nature of the study.
Is Research Methodology based on philosophy?
Research Methodology often incorporates philosophical beliefs about knowledge and how it can be obtained.
What are Research Methods?
Research Methods are the techniques and tools used for data collection and analysis in a study.
What is Research Methodology?
Research Methodology refers to the overarching strategy, theoretical framework, and rationale of a research study.
Can the same Research Methods be used in different Research Methodologies?
Yes, the same research methods can be used under different research methodologies depending on the study's goals.
Can you give an example of a Research Method?
An example of a research method is conducting surveys to gather quantitative data.
Is understanding Research Methodology important for researchers?
Yes, understanding research methodology is crucial for designing a coherent and effective research study.
Are Research Methods and Research Methodology interdependent?
Yes, they are interdependent; methodology informs the choice of methods, and methods are the practical execution of the methodology.
Are Research Methods only quantitative?
No, research methods can be quantitative, qualitative, or a mix of both.
Do Research Methods vary by discipline?
Yes, research methods can vary significantly across different academic disciplines.
Does Research Methodology dictate data analysis?
Research Methodology can influence how data is analyzed, guiding the interpretation of results.
Does Research Methodology contribute to the validity of a study?
Yes, a well-defined research methodology enhances the validity and credibility of the research.
Can a study have multiple Research Methodologies?
Typically, a study is guided by one overarching research methodology.
Can Research Methodology influence the choice of Research Methods?
Yes, the chosen research methodology often guides the selection of specific research methods.
Do Research Methods and Research Methodology evolve over time?
Yes, both research methods and methodologies can evolve as new theories and techniques emerge.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
