correlations Flashcards
correlation
- a mathematical technique in which a researcher investigates an association between two variables (co-variables).
- plotted on scattergram.
co-variables
the variables investigated within a correlation
an association is shown between these rather than a cause and effect relationship
positive correlation
when one co-variable increases, so does the other
negative correlation
when one co-variable increases, the other decreases
zero correlation
when there is no relationship between the co-variables
difference between correlations and experiments
experiment- researcher manipulated IV to measure effect on DV. as a result of this deliberate change in one variable it can be inferred that IV caused observed changes in DV.
correlation- no manipulation of one variable. not possible to establish cause and effect. intervening variables may be at play.
strengths
- useful preliminary research tool. provide precise and quantifiable measure of how two variables are related (as they assess strength and direction of relationship). may suggest ideas for future research.
- relatively quick and economical. no need for controlled environment/manipulation of variables. secondary data can be used.
limitations
- lack of experimental manipulation/control. can only tell us how variables related, not why. cannot make conclusions on cause and effect.
- third variable problem. intervening variable may be causing relationship between two co-variables.
- correlations can be misused/misinterpreted.