Research Methods and Methodology
In the context of academic and scientific research, research methods and research methodology are two terms that are often used interchangeably but have distinct meanings.
Together, methods and methodology provide the foundation for designing and executing a research study, ensuring that the study is both rigorous and systematic, while appropriately addressing the research questions posed.
This module will explain each concept in detail, highlight their differences, applications, and discuss how they work together in the research process.
1. Research Method
Research methods refer to the specific techniques or procedures used to collect and analyze data to achieve a given objective during a research study.
These are the tools or procedures employed by researchers to answer their research questions, test hypotheses, or explore a specific problem.
Types of Research Methods:
- Qualitative Research Methods:
- Common qualitative methods include:
- Interviews (structured, semi-structured, or unstructured)
- Focus Groups: Discussions with a small group of people to gather opinions or insights.
- Case Studies: In-depth investigations of a single case or a few cases.
- Ethnography: Immersive observation of a particular community or culture.
- Content Analysis: Analyzing text, media, or other content for patterns or themes.
- Quantitative Research Methods:
- Common quantitative methods include:
- Surveys: Questionnaires with closed-ended questions to collect data from large samples.
- Experiments: Controlled studies that manipulate variables to observe effects.
- Observations: Structured data collection where behaviors or phenomena are counted or measured.
- Longitudinal Studies: Studies that follow the same subjects over a period of time to observe changes.
- Mixed Methods:
- Example: A researcher might use qualitative interviews to explore participants' experiences and then use quantitative surveys to measure the frequency or prevalence of those experiences across a larger sample.