Introduction to Research Methodology and Research Methods Lecture 1

Summary

In this tutorial, we explore research methodology and its various classifications. We define research methodology as a systematic approach to collecting and analyzing data, focusing on the 'how' of research. The differences between research methodology and research methods are explained, with methodology being the theoretical framework, and methods being the practical steps used. The video also covers the eight types of research, including basic vs. applied, explanatory vs. exploratory, inductive vs. deductive, qualitative vs. quantitative, and descriptive vs. experimental research. Each type is defined with examples to illustrate their use in addressing research problems.

Takeaways

• 😀 Research methodology is the systematic process used to identify, select, and analyze information in a study.
• 😀 Research methodology is different from research methods, which are the practical steps and techniques used to gather data.
• 😀 Research methodology answers two main questions: how was the data collected or generated, and how was it analyzed?
• 😀 Research methodology provides the theoretical framework for conducting research, while research methods are the specific procedures used.
• 😀 Research methods include techniques like observations, experiments, and statistical approaches, and are used to solve research problems.
• 😀 Basic research aims to expand knowledge and develop universal principles, whereas applied research focuses on solving specific practical problems.
• 😀 Exploratory research aims to investigate under-researched problems, while explanatory research explains the causes and consequences of a well-defined issue.
• 😀 Inductive research aims to develop theories based on observations, while deductive research tests existing theories.
• 😀 Qualitative research focuses on understanding words, meanings, and experiences, whereas quantitative research focuses on numbers and statistical data.
• 😀 Descriptive research gathers data without manipulating variables, while experimental research manipulates variables to identify cause-and-effect relationships.

Q & A

What is the definition of research methodology?

Research methodology refers to the specific procedure or technique used in identifying, selecting, processing, and analyzing information about a given topic. It follows scientific principles and helps explain how research is conducted systematically.

How is research methodology different from research methods?

Research methodology is the theoretical framework that defines how research should be conducted, while research methods refer to the practical techniques and procedures used to collect and analyze data. Methodology focuses on 'how' research is done, while methods focus on 'what' is used to conduct the research.

What does the methodology section of a research paper usually address?

The methodology section typically addresses two key questions: How was the data collected or generated, and how was it analyzed.

Can you explain the relationship between research methodology and research methods?

Research methodology is a broader theoretical framework for conducting research, while research methods are the specific steps or techniques used within that framework. Methods are essentially a subset of methodology.

What is the difference between basic and applied research?

Basic research aims to expand existing knowledge and develop theories or predictions, whereas applied research focuses on solving practical problems and developing specific techniques, products, or solutions.

What is exploratory research and how does it differ from explanatory research?

Exploratory research investigates aspects of an under-researched topic, aiming to discover new insights. Explanatory research, on the other hand, focuses on explaining the causes and consequences of a well-defined problem.

What is the focus of inductive research compared to deductive research?

Inductive research focuses on developing a theory or hypothesis based on observations or data, while deductive research tests an existing theory or hypothesis using empirical data.

What distinguishes qualitative research from quantitative research?

Qualitative research focuses on understanding words, meanings, and experiences, while quantitative research is concerned with numerical data, statistics, and measurable quantities.

How does descriptive research differ from experimental research?

Descriptive research gathers data without manipulating variables, focusing on observing and describing phenomena, whereas experimental research involves manipulating variables to establish cause-and-effect relationships.

Why is it important to understand the classification of research?

Understanding the classification of research helps researchers choose the appropriate approach for their study, whether it’s to expand knowledge, solve practical problems, or explore causes and effects. It also aids in determining the research methods and design suitable for specific objectives.