week 8 correlational design

These flashcards cover key concepts related to inferential statistics and correlational design in psychological research.

Experimental Design

A research method where independent variables are manipulated to observe the effect on dependent variables.

Correlational Design

A research method that assesses the strength and direction of the linear relationship between two variables.

Correlation Coefficient

A statistical measure that indicates the degree to which two variables are related, ranging from -1 (perfect negative) to +1 (perfect positive).

Inferential Tests of Correlation

Statistical tests used to determine if there is a significant relationship between two variables; includes Pearson's r and Spearman's rs.

Spurious Correlation

A false relationship between two variables that may arise due to a third variable or coincidental factors.

Causation vs. Correlation

The distinction between a cause-effect relationship and a mere association between variables.

Pearson’s Correlation

A parametric test used for assessing the linear relationship between two continuous variables.

Spearman’s Correlation

A non-parametric test used for assessing the relationship between two ordinal variables.

Rule of Thumb (Cohen, 1968)

Guidelines for interpreting the strength of correlation coefficients: r < .3 weak, .3 < r < .7 moderate, r > .7 strong.

Statistically Significant

A result that is not likely to be due to chance, often indicated by a p-value less than .05.