Correlational research is the extent to which two variables are associated in a trend or a systematic pattern. Normally quantitive data
Data for correlations can be acquired through
Observations
Questionnaires
Experiments
Co variables are the two variables in a correlational study. There are no IV and DV
A positive correlation is high values on one variable are associated with high values on the other variable OR low low
A negative correlation is where high values are associated with low values on the other variable
A scatter diagram is a visual representation of a correlational study. the strength is indicated by the strength and the direction is indicated by the slope
No correlation = No association
A correlation coefficient can be any number between -1 and +1. This number says the strength
1 is perfect
0.7+ is strong
0.7-0.4 is mid
0.001-0.3 is weak
Strengths of correlational research
Identification of relationships when it is difficult or unethical to manipulate IV
A starting point for future research (funding)
Objective and easily replicated using quantitive data
Weaknesses of correlational research
No cause and effect relationship (unknown variable)