Difference between Research Method and Research Methodology

Both research methodology and research methods are essential components of the research process, and they work together to ensure that the research is conducted effectively and efficiently. The research methodology guides the choice of research methods and ensures the research is conducted rigorously and systematically.

In particular, research methods typically refer to the specific techniques and tools used to collect and analyze data within the research methodology. Contrarily, research methodology refers to a researcher's approach to conducting research, including the theoretical framework.

In this article, we will learn about research methods and methodology along with their various functions, functionality and objectives to determine the major differences between them.

Why are research methods and research methodology needed?

Research methods and methodology are needed to ensure that research is conducted systematically, rigorously, and objectively. These approaches help to ensure that research findings are reliable, valid, and trustworthy.

Research methodology provides a framework for researchers to design and conduct their research. It helps to ensure that the research is well-planned and appropriate for the research questions and that the data collected can be analyzed to draw valid conclusions. A well-designed research methodology ensures the research is ethical and follows accepted standards.

Overall, research methodology and methods are necessary for conducting rigorous, reliable, and ethical research that produces valid and trustworthy results.

Research Method

Research method refers to the systematic approach used to study a particular phenomenon or problem to gain knowledge or understanding. The process typically involves identifying the research question, designing the study, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing conclusions. Several research methods can be used, depending on the nature of the study and the researcher's goals. Below, we discuss the various research methods and their characteristics.

Types of Research Method

Descriptive Research

This type of research is typically done with the help of conducting surveys and some unique type of fact-finding investigations. Ex post facto research is another name for descriptive research.

This research design is strongly focused on factual reporting; the researcher cannot influence the contextual factors and can only describe the events exactly as they happened or are happening.

Descriptive research methods are frequently used by researchers when trying to understand abilities, frequencies, or patterns.

Analytical Research

This method involves collecting numerical and non-numerical data and analyzing it using statistical and qualitative techniques.

In analytical research, the researcher must analyze or do with the facts and data at his reach and interpret them to make a thorough review of the data.

Experimental Research

This method involves randomly assigning participants to different groups, manipulating one or more variables, and measuring the effect on the outcome variable.

Observational Research

Observational research is a type of qualitative research that involves observing and recording the behavior of participants in their natural environment. It is often used to gain insights into social and cultural phenomena. This method involves observing participants in their natural setting and recording their behaviour using field notes, audio or video recordings, or photographs.

Survey Research

This method involves selecting a representative sample of participants, administering the survey, and analyzing the data using statistical techniques. Survey research aims to generalize the findings to the larger population.

Important Factors

Several essential factors in research methods are critical to producing valid and reliable results. Some of these factors include:

• Research Design: The design of a research study is crucial in ensuring that the research question is answered effectively. A well-designed study should be able to address the research problem while controlling for potential confounding variables.
• Data Collection Methods: The method used to collect data will impact the accuracy and reliability of the findings. Researchers should use valid and reliable instruments to collect data and ensure that the data collection process is standardized to reduce bias.
• Reproducibility: Reproducibility refers to the ability to replicate a study and obtain similar results. Researchers should ensure that their methods are clearly described and that other researchers can replicate their findings.

Research Methodology

Research methodology refers to the systematic process researchers use to conduct a study, from selecting a research question to analyzing the data and drawing conclusions. It involves a combination of theoretical frameworks, research design, etc.

Types of Research Methodology

Quantitative Research

In the research methodology, quantitative research refers to quantitative data that usually depends on a certain quantity or specific factors. The primary objective of quantitative research is to collect data and analyze numerical data which will help in finding averages and patterns and further help in finding predictable results.

One of the two primary kinds of research is quantitative, which uses numerical data. It makes a conclusion based on graphs, tables, and data. This kind of study is often used in scientific and field-based research.

Qualitative Research

In research methodology, qualitative research refers to qualitative non-numerical data that are used to aid research.

When a researcher cannot understand the information or data about statistics, qualitative research comes up to the rescue. Qualitative research aids in creating a better synthesis of hypotheses in the data, although not as dependable as quantitative research.

Furthermore, this study aims to identify the primary factors behind human behaviour or why individuals behave or think in a particular way. Through this study, the factors affecting the behaviour or attitude of people towards a particular issue can be understood.

Research Method vs. Research Methodology

Here is the difference table showing the difference between research methodology and research methodology:

Why are research methods and methodology in demand?

Research methods are in demand because they are essential for generating new knowledge and understanding in various fields of study and research methodology helps establish relevant rules. Both approaches are essential in scientific fields, where empirical evidence is critical for advancing knowledge.

Research methods are also in demand because they provide a systematic and structured data collection and analysis approach. Using research methods also enables researchers to share their findings with others, allowing for collaboration and replication of research studies.

In addition, research methodologies are in demand because they are used in various settings, including academic research, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private industry. As such, individuals with expertise in research methods and methodology are highly valued and in demand in various professions, including academia, social work, public health, market research, and data analysis.

Overall, these two research approaches are in demand because they are essential for generating new knowledge and understanding in various fields of study and are widely applicable in various professional settings.