Research is an essential aspect of human inquiry, and it involves the systematic and rigorous investigation of a particular subject matter. Research can take many forms, and it is conducted in various fields, including science, social science, humanities, and business. The two terms that often come up in discussions on research are research method and research methodology. Although the two terms are closely related, they have distinct meanings and applications. This article examines the difference between research method and research methodology.
Research Method
Research method refers to the approach or technique that a researcher employs to collect data and information for a research project. It involves the procedures, tools, and strategies used to gather and analyze data. In other words, research methods are the techniques used to answer research questions or hypotheses. Research methods can be broadly classified into two categories, namely quantitative and qualitative methods.
Quantitative research methods are used to collect numerical data and analyze it using statistical techniques. This type of research method is used to investigate cause-and-effect relationships between variables. It involves the use of structured questionnaires, surveys, experiments, and secondary data sources. Examples of quantitative research methods include surveys, experiments, and statistical analysis.
On the other hand, qualitative research methods are used to collect non-numerical data, such as opinions, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors. This type of research method is used to explore complex phenomena that cannot be measured using numerical data. Qualitative research methods involve the use of interviews, focus groups, case studies, observation, and content analysis. Examples of qualitative research methods include ethnography, phenomenology, and grounded theory.
Research Methodology
Research methodology refers to the framework or the theoretical perspective that underpins the research project. It involves the overall strategy or plan for conducting research, including the selection of research design, data collection, data analysis, and interpretation. In other words, research methodology is the philosophy or the worldview that guides the research process.
Research methodology provides a blueprint for conducting research and ensures that the research project is rigorous, systematic, and reliable. It is concerned with the principles and assumptions that govern research, such as the nature of knowledge, the role of the researcher, the ethics of research, and the relationship between theory and practice.
Research methodology can be broadly classified into two categories, namely deductive and inductive methods.
Deductive research methodology involves the use of a pre-existing theory or hypothesis to guide the research process. This type of research methodology starts with a general theory or hypothesis, which is then tested through empirical observation and data collection. Deductive research methodology is used in quantitative research, where the aim is to test the validity of a pre-existing theory or hypothesis.
Inductive research methodology, on the other hand, involves the development of a theory or hypothesis through empirical observation and data collection. This type of research methodology starts with specific observations or data, which are then analyzed to generate a general theory or hypothesis. Inductive research methodology is used in qualitative research, where the aim is to generate new insights or theories from the data.
Main Difference Between Research Method and Research Methodology
The main difference between research method and research methodology is that research method refers to the technique or approach used to collect data, while research methodology refers to the overall framework or plan for conducting research. Research method is concerned with the specific procedures and tools used to collect and analyze data, while research methodology is concerned with the theoretical perspective or worldview that guides the research process.
Another difference between research method and research methodology is that research method is more concrete and tangible, while research methodology is more abstract and conceptual. Research method involves the practical steps taken to collect and analyze data, while research methodology involves the underlying assumptions and principles that guide the research process.