Correlational Research Overview

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What defines correlational research?

It collects qualitative data from participants to explore phenomena.

It focuses on experimental changes in one variable.

It determines the causal relationships between variables.

It describes an existing condition and relationships between quantifiable variables. (correct)

How is the degree of relation between variables expressed in correlational research?

As an average score.

As a correlation coefficient. (correct)

As a coefficient of determination.

As a standard deviation.

What is the minimally acceptable sample size for a correlational study?

20 participants.

10 participants.

30 participants. (correct)

50 participants.

What is the main purpose of conducting correlational research?

To determine the relationship between variables and make predictions. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a discouraged practice in correlational research?

Conducting exploratory correlations with many variables without a hypothesis. Signup and view all the answers

What role does validity and reliability play in correlational research?

Higher validity and reliability allow for smaller samples and accurate correlations. Signup and view all the answers

Which pairs of variables might typically be examined in correlational research?

Height and shoe size. Signup and view all the answers

Why is a larger sample size sometimes required in correlational studies?

If the validity and reliability of measures are low to minimize errors in measurement. Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred about the correlation coefficient derived from a test of math computational skill and a test of physics achievement?

It only reflects one aspect of mathematical achievement. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a correlational research design?

To collect paired scores for correlation analysis. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about high correlation between two variables is true?

It indicates a strong predictive relationship. Signup and view all the answers

When researchers find variables that are not highly related to a complex variable, what action should they take?

Drop them from further investigation. Signup and view all the answers

What does the presence of a high correlation allow researchers to do?

Make accurate predictions based on the relationship. Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of concurrent validity?

Correlating a new test's scores with students' GPAs. Signup and view all the answers

What does test-retest reliability measure?

Consistency of a test's scores over time. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception about correlational studies?

They can determine the nature of causal relationships. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Correlational Research Overview

Correlational research describes existing conditions, different from survey or observational studies.
It aims to find relationships between quantifiable variables, expressed as correlation coefficients.
Related variables show scores within certain ranges associated with each other (e.g., high intelligence scores linked with high grades).
Studies can aim to determine relationships or make predictions.
Focusing on specific variables linked to a complex variable is recommended, avoiding broad, unfocused studies.

Participant and Instrument Selection

Acceptable sampling methods are crucial for a correlational study, with sample sizes generally needing at least 30 participants.
Higher validity and reliability of variables mean a smaller sample size is acceptable, but never less than 30.
Accurate measurements for variables investigated are essential, as inaccurate instruments produce inaccurate correlation coefficients.
Example: Measuring math computational skill alone might not be a truly accurate reflection of overall math achievement when correlating with physics grades.

Design and Procedure

Correlational research involves collecting scores across two or more variables for each participant.
Results are expressed as correlation coefficients which indicate the degree of relation between variables.
Studies can involve complex statistical procedures beyond two variables.

Interpreting Results

High correlation does not imply causality. (e.g., high self-concept doesn't cause high achievement, or vice-versa)
Correlations allow for predictions (e.g., high high school GPA predicts high college GPA).
Higher correlation values mean a stronger relationship and more accurate predictions.
Correlational studies are used for determining various types of validity and reliability (e.g., concurrent validity, test-retest reliability).

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

This quiz covers the fundamentals of correlational research, emphasizing its distinct nature compared to survey and observational studies. It explores how relationships between quantifiable variables are established and the importance of participant and instrument selection for accurate results. Test your understanding of correlation coefficients and sampling methods critical for robust research.