Computer Science 494: Research Methods

Study Guide

Unit 7: Correlational Research

This unit contains the following sections:

• 7.1 Preface
• 7.2 Learning Outcomes
• 7.3 Introduction to Correlation
• 7.4 Correlational Research
• 7.5 References

7.1 Preface

Correlational research typically describes the linear relationship between two or more variables without attributing the effect of one variable on another. It is a non-experimental, descriptive method that indicates whether variables (e.g., number of hours of studying and test score) share something in common with each other. The most commonly used correlational test is the Pearson correlation coefficient, which is mainly sensitive to a linear relationship between two variables. Other correlation coefficients have been developed to be more robust than the Pearson correlation, or more sensitive to nonlinear relationships.

We anticipate that you will need about eleven hours (660 minutes) to complete this unit.

Remember that, in the readings and viewing assignments, technical terms are not always defined. Instead, we hope their meaning becomes clear from context and usage. As with any technical subject, the precise meaning of words is often important in computer science, so check the Computer Science 494 glossary for more detailed information.

7.2 Learning Objectives

After completing Unit 7, you should be able to

• describe the circumstances under which correlational analysis is needed.
• perform a correlational analysis.
• analyze the results of a correlational analysis.

7.3 Introduction to Correlation

We estimate that this segment of Unit 7 should take about 6 hours (360 minutes) to complete.

Reading Assignment 7.3.R1

The readings below provide an introduction to correlation.

Reading Assignment 7.3.R2

The reading below outlines the relationship between zero correlation and the linearity of the relation between the variables:

7.4 Correlational Research

We estimate that this segment of Unit 7 should take about 5 hours (300 minutes) to complete.

Reading Assignment 7.4.R1

The readings and presentations below provide an introduction to correlational research.

Assignment 2

Review Assignment 2 on the course home page, and do whatever you can at this point.

7.5 References