Correlations / meta analysis / case studies

Question 1

Define correlation

Answer 1

A mathematical technique in which a researcher investigates an association between two variables.

Question 2

define co-variable

Answer 2

The variables investigated within a correlation - they are not referred to as IV and DV because correlation investigates the association between the variables rather than a cause and effect relationship

Question 3

Define positive correlation

Answer 3

As one co-variable increases so does the other

Question 4

Define negative correlation

Answer 4

As one co-variable increases the other decreases

Question 5

define correlation co-efficient

Answer 5

A number between -1 and +1 that represents the direction and strength of a relationship between co-variables.

Question 6

Define scatter graph

Answer 6

A graph where two variables are plotted along the axis to show the correlation.

Question 7

strength of correlations

Answer 7

• Show strength and direction relationships - provide a precise and quantifiable measure of how two variables are related
• Quick and economical to carry out - no need for a controlled environment and no manipulation of variables is required

Question 8

Limitations of correlations

Answer 8

• Doesn’t prove causation
• Lack of experimental manipulation and control → can only tell us how variables are related but not why
• Correlations cannot demonstrate cause and effect between variables - not knowing of what is influencing
• Possible an untested variable influencing - third variable problem → mis used / misinterpreted

Question 9

What is a case study ?

Answer 9

A case study is an in depth investigation, description and analysis of a single individual, group, institution or event.

Question 10

Strengths of case studies

Answer 10

• Rich detailed insights that may highlight unusual forms of behaviour
• Contribute to understanding of normal functioning
• Generate hypotheses for future study and one contradiction can lead to revision of entire theory

Question 11

Limitations of case studies

Answer 11

• Generalisations of findings is generally an issue as only a small sampling size - lack generalisability
• Information that makes in into the report is subjective

Question 12

What is a meta analysis?

Answer 12

A meta-analysis is where researchers combine the findings from multiple studies to draw an overall conclusion

Question 13

Meta analysis strength

Answer 13

• EV as multiple studies same conclusion

Question 14

Limitation of a meta analysis

Answer 14

• Studies may not have the same aim
• Time consuming to shift through data

Question 15

define longitudinal study

Answer 15

A longitudinal study that you know from another topic of study is Rutter’s Romanian orphan study. Outline it below, referring to the effects of institutionalisation

Question 16

Strength of longitudinal studies

Answer 16

• Able to build up accurate data overtime
• Good for tracking longterm / social change as allows developments to be observed
• ^ scientific credibility as large amount of data

Question 17

longitudinal study limitations

Answer 17

• Costly
• Time expensive
• Attrition rates