Research Methodologies for Information Professionals: Approaches for Emerging Researchers across Disciplines

Abstract

This paper discussed the differences in the use of various research methodologies, which often
lead to confusion among students, researchers, and other research practitioners. Experience has
shown that there is a widespread challenge in appropriately applying research methodology types,
research designs and methods, sampling techniques, and data collection instruments many of
which are used interchangeably, despite having distinct meanings. The aim of this paper is to
clarify the distinctions among research instruments, sampling techniques, research methods, and
research designs, particularly in relation to the three major types of research methodology:
quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods. This clarification is necessary because of
inconsistencies in the use of these concepts across research literature such as textbooks and
journals often depend on the academic disciplines and perspectives of the authors. Such
inconsistent usage, especially when the relationships between methodology, design, sampling, and
instruments are not clearly defined, contributes to ongoing confusion among learners and
researchers alike.