Correlational Research

Part 1: What is correlational research?

A type of descriptive research(describe an existing condition)

Determine whether and to what degree a relationship exists between two or more quantifiable variables

Degree of relationship-correlation coefficient

Purpose

Determine relationship to make prediction

Typically investigate variables believed to be related to major, complex variable

High correlation between 2 variables

Correlational relationships(not cause-effect)

Part 2: What are the processes involved in correlational research?

  1. Problem Selection

Test hypotheses regarding expected relationships

  1. Participant and instrument selection

Variables to be correlated

Relationship to be investigated shouldbe logical one

30 participants

Select or develop valid and reliable measures of the variables being studied

3.Design and Procedure

2 or more scores

One score for each variable of interest

Paired scores are the correlated

Result-expressed as a correlation coefficient

4.Data Analysis and Interpretation

Correlation coefficient-indicates the size and direction

Decimal number

Near +1.00 -a high size and a positive direction

Near .00-Variable are not related

Near -1.00 -a high size and a negative direction

Part 3:What are the two major types of correlational research?

  1. Relationship Studies

Gain insight into variables that are related to complex variables

Suggest subsequent examination(causal-comparative and experimental studies)

Need to provide control in causal-comparative and experimental studies

1.1. Data Collection

Identify variables

Identify population

Administer instruments

Collect data within a short period of time

1.2.Data Analysis

Computing a correlation coefficient

Linear relationship

Curvilinear relationship

  1. Prediction Studies

Can be used to predict scores on the other variable

Predictor(variable used to predict)

Criterion(Variable that is predicted)

Can use more than 1 variable to make predictions

2.1. Data collection

Generally obtain predictor variables earlier than the criterion variable

Test on at least one new group of participant once the strength of the predictor variable is established

2.2. Data analysis and interpretation

Prediction equation(single variable prediction)

Y= a+bX

Y- the predicted criterion score for an individual

X- an individual's score on the predictor variable

a- a constant calculated from the scores of all participants

b- a coefficient that indicates the contribution of the predictor variable to the criterion variable