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Select a research methodology
Monash University
Last checked: 25 Oct 2026 UTCPage text
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There are various approaches to research that encompass both theory and method. Two general approaches are widely recognised: quantitative and qualitative research.
Quantitative research is an inquiry into an identified problem, based on testing a theory, measured with numbers, and analysed using statistical techniques. The goal of quantitative methods is to determine whether the predictive generalisations of a theory hold true.
By contrast, a study based upon a qualitative process of inquiry has the goal of understanding a social or human problem from multiple perspectives. Qualitative research is conducted in a natural setting and involves a process of building a complex and holistic picture of the phenomenon of interest.
More information about the differences between these types of research can be found here.
If your interest lies within Qualitative Research in Information Systems, more information can be found here. Information about Quantitative Research Methods in Information Systems can be found here.
A list of various Theories Used in Information Systems is located here.
Please note that there is a vast number of books and articles on various research methodologies available to HDR students via the Monash Library .