A method refers to the specific techniques or procedures used to collect and analyze data. Methods can be broadly categorized into qualitative and quantitative approaches.

Method

Data Collection Methods

These methods explore deeper meanings, emotions, and experiences rather than numerical data.

These methods rely on numerical data and statistical analysis for objective measurements

Quantitative

Qualitative

A technique is a specific way or method used to achieve a goal. It refers to the practical procedures or tools used within a broader research method.

Techniques

Techniques

Instruments or tools are the resources used to collect, measure, and analyze data. Researchers choose their instruments based on the type of study and the information they need to gather. 

Instruments/Tools

Instruments/Tools

Quantitative

• Structured Survey 

• Structured Observation

• Testing

Qualitative

• Interview 

• Focus Group 

• Unstructured Observation 

• Document Analysis 

Structured questionnaires given to many people to gather quantitative data.

One-on-one conversations, structured or unstructured, to get in-depth information.

Interviews

Surveys

Group discussions to explore perceptions or experiences.

Focus Groups

Watching behaviors in natural settings, either participant or non-participant.

Observation

Document Analysis

Reviewing existing materials like reports, articles, books, and archival records to extract relevant data.