A. Paragraph-wise Explanation

Research methods and research methodology are closely related but conceptually different aspects of the research process. Research methods refer to the specific techniques, tools, procedures, and ways in which data is collected, measured, and analyzed. They are the operational steps a researcher takes—such as surveys, experiments, interviews, observations, statistical tests, sampling procedures, or qualitative coding. Methods are practical, task-oriented, and concerned with how data is obtained and processed.

On the other hand, research methodology refers to the overall logic, philosophy, and rationale behind the research process. It explains why certain methods are used, how they are appropriate to the research problem, and what theoretical assumptions guide the selection of methods. Methodology provides the framework within which methods operate; it includes research design, theoretical perspectives, philosophical assumptions (positivist, interpretivist, etc.), justification of methods, and the reasoning behind the research approach. In short, methodology is concerned with the science of methods.

Thus, while methods are the tools and techniques, methodology is the strategy and justification. Methods can be many and varied, but methodology provides coherence and consistency by explaining the relationship between the research problem, the objectives, and the chosen tools. Understanding the difference is essential for high-quality PhD research, as it ensures clarity, rigor, and scientific validity.

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B. Point-wise Distinction

1. Meaning

• Research Methods:
  Practical tools and techniques used to collect, process, and analyze data.
• Research Methodology:
  Theoretical analysis of the methods; the rationale behind choosing and applying them.

2. Focus

• Methods: Focus on how research is conducted.
• Methodology: Focus on why and which way research should be conducted.

3. Nature

• Methods: Practical, procedural, and action-oriented.
• Methodology: Philosophical, conceptual, and logical.

4. Components

• Methods include:
  • Sampling techniques
  • Data collection tools (survey, interview, observation)
  • Statistical tests (t-test, ANOVA, regression)
  • Qualitative techniques (coding, thematic analysis)
• Methodology includes:
  • Research design
  • Research approach (quantitative/qualitative/mixed)
  • Philosophical assumptions (positivism, interpretivism)
  • Logic of inquiry (induction, deduction, abduction)
  • Justification for methods used

5. Purpose

• Methods: To obtain and process data.
• Methodology: To explain why methods are appropriate and how they align with research objectives.

6. Level of Abstraction

• Methods: Low-level, technical, and task-specific.
• Methodology: High-level, conceptual, and strategic.

7. Scope

• Methods: Narrow – concerned with specific procedures.
• Methodology: Broad – covers overall research design, approach, and reasoning.

8. Relationship

• Methods: Depend on methodology for justification and direction.
• Methodology: Provides a foundation and framework for choosing suitable methods.

9. Output

• Methods: Produce data, findings, and results.
• Methodology: Produces the scientific justification and logical rigor of research.

10. Example

• Methods:
  Using a questionnaire survey, running a regression analysis, conducting an interview.
• Methodology:
  Explaining why a survey is suitable, why regression is appropriate, and why a quantitative approach aligns with the objectives.

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C. Short Exam-Oriented Answer (6–7 lines)

Research methods refer to the specific tools and techniques used to collect and analyze data, such as surveys, experiments, interviews, or statistical procedures. Research methodology refers to the theoretical framework, rationale, and philosophical basis that guide the selection and application of methods. While methods answer how research is conducted, methodology explains why certain methods are appropriate. Methods are practical and task-oriented, whereas methodology is conceptual and strategic. Together, they ensure scientific rigor and coherence in research.

Table: Research Methods vs Research Methodology

Basis of Difference	Research Methods	Research Methodology
1. Meaning	Techniques and procedures used for collecting & analyzing data.	The overall logic, philosophy, and rationale behind using specific methods.
2. Focus	Focuses on how the research is conducted.	Focuses on why the research is conducted in a particular way.
3. Nature	Practical, technical, operational.	Conceptual, theoretical, philosophical.
4. Purpose	To obtain, measure, and analyze data.	To justify methods and ensure scientific coherence.
5. Level	Low-level (execution level).	High-level (strategy and planning).
6. Components	Sampling, data collection tools, statistical tests, qualitative techniques.	Research design, approach, philosophical stance, reasoning (inductive/deductive).
7. Questions Answered	“What tools/techniques will be used?”	“Why are these tools suitable for this research?”
8. Usefulness	Helps in performing specific research tasks.	Helps in structuring the entire research process.
9. Output	Produces raw data, measurements, and results.	Produces justification, logic, and scientific soundness.
10. Example	Survey, interview, experiment, regression analysis, coding.	Justifying a quantitative design, explaining positivist stance, choosing sampling strategy.

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Shorter Quick-Revision Table

Methods	Methodology
“How to do research”	“Why and which way to do research”
Practical tools	Philosophical framework
Data collection & analysis	Research design & reasoning
Operational steps	Scientific justification
Example: survey, experiment	Example: choosing quantitative approach