Meaning of methodology (what is it, concept and definition)

What is Methodology:

As methodology is called the series of methods and techniques of scientific rigor that are applied systematically during a research process to achieve a theoretically valid result. In this sense, the methodology works as the conceptual support that governs the way we apply the procedures in an investigation.

The word, as such, comes from the Greek μέθοδος (méthodos), which means 'method', and the suffix -logy, which derives from λóγος (lógos) and translates 'science, study, treatise'. Hence it is also defined as the science of method.

We can find methodology in different areas of study, such as didactic methodology in Education, or legal in Law, in the same way as for the solution of certain problems we can apply a series of specific steps that, in short, work as a methodology.

Investigation methodology

The research methodology is a discipline responsible for developing knowledge, define and systematize the set of techniques, methods and procedures to be followed during the development of a research process for the production of knowledge.

It guides the way in which we are going to approach an investigation and the way in which we are going to collect, analyze and classify the data, with the aim that our results have validity and relevance, and comply with the standards of scientific demand.

The research methodology, in this sense, is also the part of a research project where the criteria adopted in choosing the methodology are exposed and reasoned, whether it is quantitative or qualitative.

See also:

• Research methodology Research protocol.

Quantitative methodology

The quantitative methodology is that used by the natural or factual sciences, which uses quantifiable data that is accessed by observation and measurement.

For its analysis, it proceeds by using statistics, identifying variables and constant patterns. His method of reasoning is deductive, for which he works based on a representative sample of the studied universe.

Qualitative methodology

The qualitative methodology is used to address this research within the field of social sciences and humanities.

As such, it focuses on all those aspects that cannot be quantified, that is, its results are not transferable to mathematics, so it is a rather interpretive, subjective procedure, as opposed to quantitative methodology.

His method of reasoning is inductive: he goes from the particular to the universal. In your case, the data is accessed for analysis and interpretation through direct observation, interviews or documents.

Learning methodology

The methodology of learning is a discipline that involves a series of techniques, methods and strategies, implemented systematically help optimize the acquisition of new knowledge and skills.

Factors such as the organization of time (study hours), the conditioning of the place of study, concentration, understanding, interest, memory, clarity of thought, note taking, good reading habits, reviewing and Preparation for an exam are all aspects that, when applied with methodological rigor, improve learning abilities and school performance. In short, it is the art of learning to learn.