correlations

Question 1

correlation

Answer 1

• a mathematical technique in which a researcher investigates an association between two variables (co-variables).
• plotted on scattergram.

Question 2

co-variables

Answer 2

the variables investigated within a correlation

an association is shown between these rather than a cause and effect relationship

Question 3

positive correlation

Answer 3

when one co-variable increases, so does the other

Question 4

negative correlation

Answer 4

when one co-variable increases, the other decreases

Question 5

zero correlation

Answer 5

when there is no relationship between the co-variables

Question 6

difference between correlations and experiments

Answer 6

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.

Question 7

strengths

Answer 7

• 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.

Question 8

limitations

Answer 8

• 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.