What is correlation analysis?
A technique used to investigate a link between two measured variables
Give the definition of a correlation
A relationship between two variables
What is a positive correlation?
The relationship between two variables such that an increase in one accompanies an increase in the other
What is a negative correlation?
A relationship Between two variables such that an increase in one accompanies a decrease in the other
What is a scatter diagram,?
A graph used to display the data from the correlation study. Each point on the graph represents the participants score on scales for each of the two measured variables
What cannot be established when investigating a correlation?
CAUSE AND EFFECT
What are the strengths of obtaining data from a correlation?
- Correlation can be conducted when two variables cannot be manipulated I ethical or in practical reasons.
- Demonstrates absence or presence of a relationship suggesting further on a further experiment.
What form must data be in to establish a correlation?
Numerical
What are the weaknesses of obtaining data from a correlation?
- Researchers cannot assume one variable causes another (cause and effect).
- correlation analysis can only be used by variables measured on a scale (numerically)
What techniques can be used in correlation analysis to collect appropriate data?
- Self-report i.e. interviews and questionnaires
- Tests that produce interval data
How can you achieve validity in correlations?
Making sure the variables are defined and measured affectively
