Correlational Research
Definition
A type of descriptive research
Determine whether, and to what degree, a relationship exists between two or more quantifiable variables
Relationship exist means scores within a certain range on one variable are associated with scores within a certain range on the other variable
Degree of relationships: Correlation coefficient
Purpose
Investigate variables
A high correlation between 2 variables does not imply one causes the other
Determine relationships between variables or use these relationships to make predictions
Correlational relationships, not cause-effect permit prediction
Process
Data Analysis and Interpretation
Design and Procedure
Participant and Instrument Selection
Problem selection
The major types
Relationship Studies
Prediction Studies
suggest subsequent examination
Gain insights into variables that are related to complex variables
Provide control in causal-comparative and experimental studies
Predictor
Criterion
If two variables are highly related, scores on one variable can be used to predict scores on the other variable
Conducted to test variables believed to be good predictors of a criterion
Prediction based on a combination of these variables will be more accurate if several predictor variables each correlate well with a criterion.
Can use more than 1 variable to make predictions