In today’s terminology, in Remote Viewing, the term “method” is generally used when referring to the application of a specific written working protocol.
Remote viewer Joe McMoneagle first insisted on a rigid distinction between “method” and “protocol” shortly after remote viewing was declassified in the mid 1990s. Therefore, regardless of the scientific usage, the following definition is common in the world of Remote Viewing: “Method” refers to the specific application (e.g., CRV, TRV, ERV), while “protocol” describes the framework under which the viewer operates (blinding, feedback, etc.). An enlightening article on this can be found here: https://rviewer.com/protocol-or-method-another-remote-viewing-controversy/
My his book, The Essential Guide to Remote Viewing, Paul H. Smith explains his usage.
[R]remote viewing…is not just a method of using ESP. “Remote viewing” also refers to an experimental protocol. In other words, the framework, rules and procedures within which a remote viewing session is conducted can be considered “remote viewing” as well.
There are various remote viewing methods – you can think of “methods” as a set of techniques for how to do remote viewing. Then there is the remote viewing protocol. You can think of protocols as the goals a viewer is supposed to aim for and the conditions under which remote viewing should be done. Take lap swimming as an analogy, for example. There are any number of strokes (“methods”) a swimmer can use to get from one end of the pool to the other. But the conditions (“protocols”) are the same no matter which stroke is used: there must be water; it must be deep enough; the swimmer must go end-to-end, etc.
The entries in our Genealogy overview (Methods Map) illustrate the evolution of new versions of Remote Viewing (RV) methods, based on the original Swann/Puthoff CRV approach. Each entry signifies a modification in the methodology or the link toward a subsequent modification. It is important to note that this overview may not provide a comprehensive representation of all current RV instructors and methods, as the field is dynamic and constantly evolving.