Research Methodology Vs. Research Method | Table

In this article you will learn about the difference between research methodology and research method.

Research

Research can be defined as the methodical, thorough search for relevant information on a certain topic. The problem must be stated clearly, a hypothesis must be developed, data must be gathered and analyzed, and conclusions must be made based on the facts and data gathered. In order to accomplish this, the researcher employs research methods while carrying out the research.

The terms “research techniques” and “research methodology” are sometimes used interchangeably, however research methodology refers to the scientific study of the research methods to identify a solution to the problem on certain topic. Consequently, it seems relevant to explain the differences between research methodology and research method.

Research Methodology

The research methodology is an approach to examine the various steps often taken by a researcher in order to conduct a systematic study of his research problems, as well as the underlying logic, assumptions, justifications, and reasoning.

 Researcher should explain, why he has chosen a particular research method above others? 

Research methodology talks about the logic and justification that underpin the research methods that the researcher employs in the context of his research project.

It is the science of discovering the proper procedures for conducting systematic research. It refers to the thorough examination of the research methods used to make sure that the findings reached are accurate, reliable, and acceptable as well.

The researcher provides an overview of the various techniques he chooses to address the problem, along with the reasoning behind the methodologies he uses throughout research. Also, it states clearly why a specific method or procedure was chosen over others, allowing the researcher to evaluate the results.

A research methodology aims at answering following questions:

• Which problem the research has addressed?
• What were the objectives of the study?
• What were the research questions?
• What criteria were used to develop the research hypothesis, and why?
• Why was this particular group of people interviewed and not the other groups?

• How many individuals submitted the responses that the researcher used to draw conclusions?

• Why were these specific techniques for analyzing data used?

• What supporting data were considered in determining to accept or reject the proposed hypothesis?

Example of Research Methodology

A qualitative case study using data from observational field notes and interviews is an example of research methodology.

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Research Method

The term research method refers to all of the techniques that a researcher uses to carry out the research process and solve the problem. The research method is the set of procedures and techniques used to explore a particular research problem. It includes both qualitative and quantitative research methods, including survey, case study, interview, questionnaire, observation, etc.

These are the methods that assist in gathering information and performing research in order to accomplish particular goals like hypothesis testing or development. It consists of all the instruments and tools utilized at various stages of the research process, such as collecting observations, gathering data, processing that data, drawing conclusions, making decisions, etc.

Example of Research Method

A physical scientist, for instance, might use equipment like an electron microscope or a radio telescope to gather his data.

A researcher or social scientist, on the other hand, might gather his data using a personal interview, a sample survey with a mail questionnaire, or an opinion poll as a method.

To gather information, he might use a case study approach, a group discussion, or a interview. They are still using the same method, which is observation of some kind, to collect data for research.

The nature and complexity of the tools and techniques used by scientists in their fields can differ greatly.

How to Write a Research Paper’s Methodology and Method Section?

The method and methodology section of most research papers is frequently asked to be revised because of the uncertainty surrounding these concepts. One should be aware that making a mistake in these parts could have unwarranted consequences.

Understanding the techniques and processes used in research can also make it simpler for you to review and understand different works of literature. A comprehensive method and methodology section is a point of confirmation for authentic research.

Methodology

A methodology of research paper consists of:

1- An introduction and justification of the systematic methodological approach (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed method) throughout the research process.

3- The applicability, validity, and reliability of each method used in the research must be stated in the methodology section.

4- It must give a thorough explanation of the precise methods for gathering data used as well as the data analysis process.

5- Finally, the methodology section has to explain why the particular research methods and procedures were selected.

Method

You must keep the following in mind while you write the method section:

1- Researchers are required to properly cite any sources that assisted them in choosing the research study’s method. The data of earlier investigations should also be included in order to show their relevance to the current study.

2- The method section must include information about the participants, including their location, age, sex, and any pre-existing conditions.

3- The inclusion and exclusion criteria for subjects must also be included in the method section.

4- The method section also includes a description of the division of the selected group and its characteristics.

5- The study design must be included in the method section.

6- Instruments, software used in analyzing data all needed to be described in this section.

7- Statistical analysis must be included. For instance, data type, their measurements, and statistical tests.

Difference Between Research Methodology and Research Method

Research Methodology	Research Method
It refers to a process for effectively addressing research problems.	It describes the methods that the researcher uses to conduct the research.
Investigate the various methods that can be used to conduct experiments, tests, surveys, etc.	It involves conducting an experiment, test, survey, etc.
Used to find a solution to the research problem.	Used to achieve the research objective.
Aims to answer this question.  How did the researcher complete his study?	Aims to answer this question. What tools did the researcher use to complete his research?
Any research must start with research methodology because it provides the way for choosing the most suitable research methods.	Research, whether it be scientific or not, must have research methods.

Other articles

Please read through some of our other articles with examples and explanations if you’d like to learn more about research methodology.