methodology

From French méthodologie. Surface etymology is method + -ology

• (Received Pronunciation) IPA^(key): /meθəˈdɒlədʒi/
• (General American) IPA^(key): /ˌmɜθəˈdɑlədʒi/, /ˌmɜθɪˈdɑlɪdʒi/

methodology (countable and uncountable, plural methodologies)

1. The study of methods used in a field.
2. (proscribed) A collection of methods, practices, procedures and rules used by those who work in some field.
3. The implementation of such methods etc.

Etymologically, methodology refers to the study of methods. Thus the use of methodology as a synonym for methods (or other simple terms such as means, technique, or procedure) is proscribed as both inaccurate and pretentious.