Research Method vs. Research Methodology — What's the Difference?

The application of a suitable Research Method is crucial for obtaining reliable and valid results. It serves as a tool to systematically collect data and draw conclusions. Conversely, Research Methodology acts as the blueprint for the research, outlining the overall approach and providing a rationale for the selection and implementation of specific methods, ensuring the research is coherent, consistent, and logical.

While Research Methods can be quantitative, qualitative, or mixed, depending on the nature of the data and the research question, Research Methodology is concerned with the justification for using a particular method or a combination of methods. It involves reflecting on the appropriateness of the methods in relation to the research objectives and ensuring that the research is conducted ethically and rigorously.

In essence, Research Method focuses on the ‘how’ of research, dealing with the practical implementation of data collection techniques, while Research Methodology deals with the ‘why’ and ‘what’ of the research, providing the theoretical and philosophical foundation that guides the selection and application of the methods.

A Research Method is applied to understand specific aspects of a subject and often involves empirical techniques like surveys, interviews, and case studies. It is the practical means by which data is collected. Research Methodology, however, goes beyond practical techniques to encompass the reasoning and philosophy behind the choice of methods, addressing questions related to the reliability, validity, and suitability of the chosen methods for answering the research questions.

Research Method and Research Methodology are integral parts of academic, scientific, and business research but address different aspects of the research process. A Research Method is the specific technique or procedure used to gather, analyze, and interpret data, such as experimentation or observation. In contrast, Research Methodology is the structured approach or strategy that underpins the selection and use of particular research methods, involving considerations of the philosophical, ethical, and theoretical framework guiding the research.