论文概念辨析：research methods 和 research methodology 有什么区别？

"Research methods" and "research methodology" are two distinct but commonly confused terms. Let us understand the differences between them. Research methodology is a broad set of principles that help researchers choose which methods they should use to conduct their experiments. In contrast, research methods are the actual techniques and procedures used in research work. They are based on the choice of research methodology, which thus encompasses not only the methods but also the logic or reasoning behind using them. Depending on the nature of your research, the research methodology could encompass the use of either qualitative or quantitative data. You would then accordingly choose different methods of research like observation, surveys, interviews, laboratory experiments, etc.

“方法”和“方法论”是两个完全不同却又容易混淆的词，有必要讲讲他们的区别。方法论是一套关于选择实验方法的理论，而研究方法强调实际用到的研究程序、技术。研究方法基于所选的方法论，方法论除了告诉你怎么做，还教你背后的逻辑。举个例子，当我们说方法论的时候，我们指的是定性研究或定量研究。方法论定下来之后，再根据研究需要相应地选择观察、问卷调查、采访、实验等研究方法。