correlations

Question 1

define correlation

Answer 1

it is a mathematical technique in which a researcher investigates an association between two variables, called co-variables

Question 2

what is used to represent of the correlation coefficient and what is it/does it mean

Answer 2

• represented by the letter r
• a number between -1 and 1 which tells you the direction and strength of the correlation
• closer to 1 (strong positive)
• 0 (no correlation)
• closer to -1 (strong negative)

Question 3

strengths of using correlation

Answer 3

• they provide a precise and quantifiable measure of how two variables are related
• relatively quick and easy to carry out
• data can be primary or secondary (more flexibility)

Question 4

weaknesses of using correlation

Answer 4

• there is a lack of experimental manipulation and control
• tells us how variables are related but not why
• intervening variables (third variable problem)