Correlational Research Experimental Research

• A correlational study determines whether or not two
variables are correlated. This means to study
whether an increase or decrease in one variable
corresponds to an increase or decrease in the other
variable.
• It is very important to note that correlation does not
imply causation.
Types of Correlation
• Positive correlation: Positive correlation between
two variables is when an increase in one variable
leads to an increase in the other and a decrease in
one leads to a decrease in the other.
For example, the amount of money that a person possesses
might correlate positively with the number of cars he owns.
• Negative correlation: Negative correlation is when
an increase in one variable leads to a decrease in
another and vice versa.
 A quantitative research that treats or deals with the
object or subject of a research in a definite or exact
manner and determines the extent of the effects or
influence of the treatment on the object/ subject
then discovers the causes of such effects.
2 groups involved:
 EXPERIMENTAL GROUP – one on which the
treatment or influence is applied
 CONTROL GROUP – does not receive any treatment
The objects or subjects involved in these types are chosen
randomly or selected by chance.
EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH CLASSIFICATION
 A. TRUE EXPERIMENTAL

For example, the level of education might correlate  B. QUASI-EXPERIMENTAL

negatively with crime. This means if by some way the
education level is improved in a country, it can lead to lower *BASED ON WHERE IT IS DONE:
crime. Note that this doesn't mean that a lack of education
causes crime. It could be, for example, that both lack of  A. LABORATORY RESEARCH
education and crime have a common reason: poverty.  B. FIELD RESEARCH
• No correlation: Two variables are uncorrelated when
a change in one doesn't lead to a change in the other TRUE EXPERIMENTAL
and vice versa.  - absolutely uses random selection in determining
For example, among millionaires, happiness is found to be who among the participants should compose the
uncorrelated to money. This means an increase in money experimental group or the control group
doesn't lead to happiness.
NOTE: QUASI-EXPERIMENTAL
• A correlation coefficient is usually used during a  - adopts a comparative technique in choosing the
correlational study. It varies between +1 and -1. A subjects
value close to +1 indicates a strong positive
 - the experimental group on which the treatment or
correlation while a value close to -1 indicates strong
condition is applied is not chosen randomly but
negative correlation. A value near zero shows that
matched or compared with another group whom the
the variables are uncorrelated.
researcher believe as having the same characteristics
Advantages as the experimental group under treatment
• If correlation is significant then further investigation
is justified.
• If correlation is not significant then you can probably
rule out a causal relationship.
• No manipulation of behavior is required.
• The correlation coefficient can readily quantify
observational data.

Disadvantages
• No direct cause and effect can be inferred - the
association between two variables could potentially
be explained by a third variable.
• As with experiments, it may lack internal (pay and
hard work)/external validity.