Confused by research terminology? Learn the simple differences between ontology, epistemology, methodology, and methods using the iceberg analogy.

The Ultimate Guide: Ontology, Epistemology, Methodology, and Methods Explained

When designing a research study, we always think about the methods we are going to use. The methods we choose say a lot about our underlying assumptions, even if those assumptions aren’t always obvious to us.

Do you find terms like ontology and epistemology alien and confusing? You are certainly not alone. Today, we are going to simplify these terms and give you a great way to remember them using the “Iceberg Analogy.”

The Iceberg Analogy in Research

Think of your research framework as an iceberg floating in the water.

1. Methods (The Tip of the Iceberg)

Right at the very top, visible above the water, is your Methods. These are the practical, visible steps and tools you use to conduct your research, such as surveys, interviews, or scientific experiments.

2. Methodology (Just Below the Surface)

Lying just below the tip of the iceberg is the Methodology. People often confuse methodology with methods, but the suffix “-ology” simply means “the study of.” Therefore, methodology is the study of methods.

It encompasses the set of discussions, debates, decisions, and choices you have made to arrive at your chosen methods. It considers your overall research question, your skill set, your resources, and the time you have available.

3. Epistemology and Ontology (Deep Beneath the Surface)

Lying even lower beneath the surface are your deep-seated epistemological and ontological beliefs. These are the foundational assumptions that dictate everything above them.

What is Ontology? (Realism vs. Relativism)

In simple terms, Ontology is the study of what reality is. Let’s look at the two main types of ontological beliefs:

• Realism: Realists believe that one absolute truth exists. Because they believe in a single, objective reality, they seek to find this truth using what we know as the scientific method. They try to discover new knowledge using objective approaches—looking from the outside, taking strict measurements, and drawing concrete conclusions.
• Relativism: Relativists, on the other hand, believe that there are multiple realities. They believe that we can only learn about these realities by understanding the distinct meanings that research participants give to the phenomenon being studied.

What is Epistemology?

While ontology is about what reality is, Epistemology is about how we can generate knowledge about that reality. It is the intersection of Truth, Knowledge, and Belief. Your ontological stance (Realism or Relativism) directly dictates your epistemological approach.

Let’s Look at a Practical Example

Say you want to know if Sierra Leone is a “wealthy” country.

• The Realist Approach: If you are a realist, you believe wealth is an objective reality that can be measured in economic terms. Your task is simple: you identify economic indicators of wealth, look up Sierra Leone’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), analyze the statistics, and you have your definitive answer.
• The Relativist Approach: If you are a relativist, you believe that “wealth” could have multiple meanings depending on the community. Therefore, you would embark on a completely different kind of study. You would actually visit Sierra Leone, spend time with the local people, and discuss what the concept of “wealth” means to them (e.g., family size, community health, or land ownership).

Final Thoughts

To sum it up: Ontology is what you believe reality is. Epistemology is how you believe we can gain knowledge about that reality. Methodology is the strategic framework you build based on those beliefs, and your Methods are the actual, practical tools you use to collect the data.

By understanding the whole iceberg, you can design a much stronger, more cohesive research study!