Chapter 9 Flashcards
Correlations represent
A method of research
Correlational Method of Research
The variables are not manipulated or controlled. We measure any naturally occurring changes between the 2 variables and see if there is any relationship between them (Helps make predictions).
Correlations can help us predict
one variable from another.
Scatterplot
is a type of graph that represents correlational data. Each dot in the scatterplot represents the value of two variables for that given person.
In a scatterplot, if the dots are haphazardly scattered (no pattern)
There is no relationship between both of the variables.
In a scatterplot, if the dots follow a straight-line pattern,
There is a very strong relationship between the variables.
The stronger the correlation,
the more closely the dots follow a linear pattern, the better we can predict the value of one variable from the other variable.
The Correlation Coefficient “r” consists of
A + or a - sign and a number.
The number of a correlation coefficient tells you
How strongly the 2 variables are correlated.
The + or - of the correlation coefficient tells you
the direction of the relationship between the 2 variables.
0 indicates
no relationship, no predictability
1.00 indicates
perfect relationship, perfect predictability.
.50 correlation coefficient is indicative of a
Moderate relationship
If the coefficient has a + sign, that means that
The values of both variables are going in the same direction.
If the coefficient has a - sign, that means that
The values of both variables are changing in the opposite direction.
Inferential statistics still need to be used in order to determine whether
The correlation coefficient is statistically significant.
Linearity
Some relationships aren’t linear and we can determine that by looking at the scatterplot.
Restriction of Range
When only a narrow range of scores is used for one or both variables which misrepresents the correlation.
In correlational research, it is essential to have a
Large sample so that it includes a wide range of scores, providing more accuracy.
Restriction of range reduces
Predictability
The larger the sample….
The greater the range of scores.
Regression Analysis
Making predictions on the basis of correlational research. Knowing the size of correlation and the value of X (predictor variable), allows you to predict Y (criterion variable).
The regression line (line of the best fit) provides
the best way of summarizing the points on the scatterplot and is the line used for making predictions.
Bivariate Analysis
examines the relationship between 2 variables.