Correlations Flashcards
1
Q
what does a correlation illustrate?
A
- the strength and direction of an association between two or more co-variables
2
Q
what are the types of correlations?
A
- positive correlation
- negative correlation
- zero correlation
3
Q
what is a positive correlation?
A
as one co variable increases the other co variable also increases
4
Q
what is a negative correlation?
A
as one co variable increases the other co variable decreases
5
Q
what is a zero correlation?
A
no relationship between the two co variables
6
Q
what is the difference between correlations and experiments?
A
- in experiments the researcher controls or manipulates the IV to measure its effect on the DV
- in correlations there is no manipulation of variables and it’s not possible to establish cause and effect
7
Q
what are strengths of correlations?
A
- they provide a precise and quantifiable measure of how two variables are related
- used as a starting point before experimental study
- relatively quick and economical
8
Q
what are limitations of correlations?
A
- studies only tell us how variables are related but not why
- cannot demonstrate cause and effect
- correlations can occasionally be misused or misinterpreted
