Research Method vs. Research Methodology: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on January 12, 2024
Research Method refers to specific techniques for data collection and analysis, while Research Methodology encompasses the overall approach and rationale of the research.
Key Differences
Research Method refers to the specific procedures or techniques used to identify, select, process, and analyze information about a topic. It includes tools like surveys, interviews, or experiments. Research Methodology, on the other hand, is a systematic, theoretical analysis of the methods applied to a field of study. It comprises the theoretical analysis of the body of methods and principles associated with a branch of knowledge.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
When considering Research Method, it's about the practical aspect of executing research. For example, in a study on human behavior, a method might involve a detailed survey. Research Methodology addresses the logic behind employing these particular methods. It involves studying the methods themselves and determining their suitability for the research problem or question.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
Research Method is more about the 'how' of the research, focusing on techniques and tools. It's about the practical steps necessary to undertake research effectively. In contrast, Research Methodology deals with the 'why' and the rationale that underpins the choice of particular methods. It's about the principles that guide research practice.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
For instance, in a study involving statistical analysis, the Research Method would be the specific statistical techniques used to analyze data. Research Methodology would be concerned with why these techniques are the best choice for this kind of research, discussing the theoretical underpinnings of these methods.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
In summary, Research Method is about the practical implementation of research techniques, while Research Methodology delves deeper into the reasoning, justifying why specific methods are used and their relevance to the broader field of study.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Specific procedures or techniques for data collection and analysis.
Systematic analysis of the methods and principles in a field of study.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
Focus
Practical execution of research.
Theoretical rationale and appropriateness of methods.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
Examples
Surveys, interviews, experiments.
Discussing why surveys are suited for certain studies.
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Jan 12, 2024
Nature
More about 'how' to conduct research.
Concerned with 'why' certain methods are chosen.
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Jan 12, 2024
Application
Direct application in collecting and analyzing data.
Guides the choice and application of specific methods.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
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Research Method and Research Methodology Definitions
Research Method
A systematic way of conducting empirical research.
Using a survey as a research method, researchers collected data from 500 participants.
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Dec 15, 2023
Research Methodology
The study of how research is done scientifically.
The research methodology involved a critical analysis of different data collection techniques.
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Dec 15, 2023
Research Method
A procedure used in scientific research to collect data.
An experiment was conducted as a research method to test the hypothesis.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023
Research Methodology
Principles underlying the selection and application of research methods.
The research methodology included a comprehensive review of methodological choices in similar studies.
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Dec 15, 2023
Research Method
Practical steps taken to undertake research.
The case study was selected as the research method to explore the phenomenon in-depth.
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Dec 15, 2023
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Research Methodology
Theoretical analysis and justification of research methods.
In their research methodology, the authors discussed the rationale behind selecting a mixed-methods approach.
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Dec 15, 2023
Research Method
Techniques used to identify, select, and analyze information.
Interviews were employed as a research method to gather qualitative data.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023
Research Methodology
Systematic approach to understanding research methods.
The dissertation's research methodology chapter explained the epistemological underpinnings of the chosen methods.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023
Research Method
A tool for implementing scientific inquiry.
The research method of observation was used to study behavioral patterns.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023
Research Methodology
A framework guiding the choice and use of research methods.
The chosen research methodology dictated the use of qualitative methods for deeper insights.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 15, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What is Research Methodology?
A systematic study of the methods and principles used in a research field.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
Can Research Method exist without Methodology?
Practically, yes, but Methodology provides the theoretical foundation and justification for the chosen methods.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
What is a Research Method?
A specific technique used for data collection and analysis in research.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
Is Research Methodology more important than Research Method?
Both are equally important; Methodology guides the choice of Method, and Method is the application of these concepts.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
How do Research Method and Methodology differ?
Research Method is the practical technique for gathering data, while Methodology is the theoretical analysis of these methods.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
Can a research have multiple Methods?
Yes, many studies use a combination of methods for comprehensive analysis.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
Do all research studies need a defined Methodology?
Yes, to ensure the research is systematic, rational, and theoretically sound.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
Is Research Methodology theoretical?
Primarily, yes, it involves the theoretical understanding and rationale behind methods.
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Jan 12, 2024
Does Research Methodology help in interpreting results?
It provides a framework for understanding and justifying how results are obtained.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
Does Research Methodology include data analysis?
It includes the rationale behind the choice of data analysis techniques.
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Jan 12, 2024
What role does Research Methodology play in research?
It ensures that the research is conducted systematically and logically.
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Jan 12, 2024
How do researchers learn about Research Methodology?
Through academic training and study of methodological literature.
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Jan 12, 2024
Can Research Methodology change during a study?
Yes, if the researcher finds that different methods are more suitable as the study progresses.
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Jan 12, 2024
How is Research Method chosen?
Based on the research question, objectives, and available resources.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
Can qualitative and quantitative methods be part of the same Research Methodology?
Yes, in a mixed-methods approach.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
Can Research Method change the outcome of a study?
Yes, different methods can yield different types of data and insights.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
Is expertise in Research Methodology critical for successful research?
Yes, as it ensures the research is valid, reliable, and scientifically sound.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
Can Research Methodology be flawed?
Yes, if it's not well-aligned with the research objectives and questions.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
Are Research Methods subject-specific?
Yes, different fields often require different research methods.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
Is it necessary to justify the choice of Research Method in a study?
Yes, this justification is typically part of the Methodology section.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 12, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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