Glossary C

Glossary C

Correlation matrix refers to an array that displays the correlations between all possible pairs of variables in the array.

Correlational design refers to a type of research design that indicates the strength of associations among variables

Correlational laws refer to laws that specify the systematic relationships among classes of empirical events. The events described by Correlational laws do not need to be causally related unlike causal laws. One can note, for example, that as average daily temperature rises, so does the death rate without knowing or even caring if the two (2) events are causally related.

Correlational method refers to the method whereby two or more variables are systematically measured and the relationship between them (i.e., how much one can be predicted from the other) is assessed.

Correlational observation refers to a research design in which the researcher attempts to determine whether two (2) or more variables are related without attempting to manipulate the variables or draw causal conclusions.

Correlational research involves collecting data in order to determine whether, and to what degree, a relationship exists between two or more variables An example of correlational research question is "Is poverty related to success of poor students in school?

Correlational research strategy refers to a general approach to research that involves measuring two (2) or more variables in order to describe the relationship between the variables. The variables are measured and recorded to obtain a set of scores, often two (2) scores, for each individual. Then, the measurements are reviewed to identify any patterns of relationship that exist between the variables and to measure the strength of the relationship.

Correlational studies refer to studies designed to yield information concerning the degree of relationship between two (2) variables. It is a non-experimental study designed to measure the degree of relationship, if any, between two (2) or more events, measures, or variables. Moreover, a Correlational study is a research procedure in which variables are measured and compared to detect any association but are not manipulated. Conclusions about cause and effect relationships are not permissible.