Correlations

Positive correlation?

as one co-variable increases, the other also increases

Negative correlation?

as one co-variable increases, the other decreases

No correlation?

no obvious association between the co-variables

Correlation coefficient?

a number that represents the strength and direction of the relationship between two variables

Correlation coefficient: what does it vary on a scale between?

on a scale between -1 and +1

Correlation coefficient: what does -1 represent on this scale?

a perfect negative correlation (strong)

Correlation coefficient: on this scale what does +1 represent?

a perfect positive correlation (strong)

Correlation coefficient: on this scale what does 0 represent?

no correlation

What does a correlational hypothesis need to reflect?

predicting a relationship (not a difference)

The two different types of correlational hypotheses?

directional and non-directional

The possible directions of a correlational hypotheses?

positive and negative

Correlation strengths (2)?

provides evidence for future experimental research (
preliminary tool) and secondary data can be easily used making correlations quick and easy to do

Correlation weaknesses (2)?

correlation doesn’t equal causation - don’t explain why the variables are related - and correlations are often misinterpreted or misused by the media/politicians