Correlations

• What can analyzing data for a correlation show?

  Potential relationships and their strength
• What does the term "correlation coefficient" refer to?

  A numerical measure of correlation strength
• How does a correlational study differ from an experimental study?

  Correlational studies do not manipulate variables
• What are co-variables in a correlation?

  Variables that are measured and compared
• Which variables could be compared in a correlation study?

  Age, IQ, and bank account balance
• What is a scattergram used for?

  To display data collected in a correlation
• How would you plot a correlation on a scattergraph?

  By plotting data pairs on X and Y axes
• What does a positive correlation indicate?

  Both co-variables increase together
• What does a negative correlation indicate?

  One co-variable increases while the other decreases
• What does zero correlation mean?

  No relationship between the co-variables
• What is the range of a correlation coefficient?

  -1 to 1
• What does a correlation coefficient of 0.8 indicate?

  A strong correlation
• What is a critical evaluation of correlation studies?

  Correlation does not imply causation
• How might low attendance relate to exam performance?

  Low attendance may lead to poor performance
• What is an example of a third variable affecting correlation?

  Temperature affecting ice cream sales and drowning
• What is a positive evaluation of using correlations in research?

  They can highlight potential causal relationships
• Why are correlational studies often ethically favorable?

  They measure pre-existing variables
• What is the purpose of the correlation coefficient?

  To describe the strength of a correlation
• What are the strengths and limitations of correlational studies?

  Strengths:

  • Highlight potential causal relationships
  • Few ethical problems with pre-existing variables
  • Useful correlation coefficient for strength

  
  

  Limitations:

  • Correlation does not imply causation
  • No control over extraneous variables