Introduction
SPSS means Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, was designed to provide SPSS help with advanced analytics, business intelligence, research & analysis, etc. Correlation in SPSS is a statistical technique that shows the degree of association between the two variables, that is, how strongly two variables are connected to each other. In this blog post, we will study correlation analysis and research, and we will understand its types, methods and characteristics.
What is correlational research and analysis?
Correlational research is a type of non-experimental and descriptive research method in which the relationship between two variables is established using statistical analysis. The idea behind conducting correlation analysis is to identify whether a change in one variable creates some change in another variable or not. In the case of correlation analysis, the variables are not manipulated for conducting an experiment, in fact, the analysts measure naturally occurring events, behaviour, and characteristics. For example, finding a relationship between high-income officials and relocation, such as the more people earn, the more chances they have to relocate.
Types of correlational research
There are three types of correlational research methodologies which are as follows:
- Positive correlational research:
When correlation analysis is conducted on two variables and when one variable changes like the other, that is, an increase in one variable brings an increase in the other variable also, then it is termed positive correlational research. For example, an increase in product use increases its demand and vice versa.
- Negative correlational research:
In the case of negative correlational research methodology, a change in one variable will cause an alternate change in another variable, that is, an increase in one variable will decrease another variable and vice versa. For example, a fall in product demand causes a rise in goods and services or the other way round.
- Zero correlational research:
When two variables are not necessarily connected to each other or a change in one variable does not cause any change in another variable then such a correlation analysis comes under zero correlational research.
Data collection methods in correlation analysis & research
Correlation analysis uses three different data collection methods to determine the linear statistical relationship between two variables. Let us understand those methods:
- Naturalistic observation:
In this type of research method, the researchers closely observe the natural behavioural patterns of human subjects under consideration. The researcher needs to pay extra attention to ensure that involved human subjects must not suspect that they are being observed, otherwise, they will deviate from their natural behaviour. Here all the subjects are kept anonymous to avoid a breach of privacy. One of the finest advantages of using this correlational research method is that you can observe the subjects or variables in their natural state. But it is a very expensive and time-consuming process plus the human subject might become aware of this process anytime and can act contrary.
- Archival data:
This correlational research methodology involves already collected information and data for further analysis and it is usually straight to the point. Here the researchers use previously conducted research data and track already determined variables and subjects. Since you are using already gathered information hence, this method is less expensive, less time-consuming and provides more disposable data to the researchers. But it has one disadvantage, that is, you might not aware of your data accuracy because there are chances of missing the data from previous research, and since you have not collected the information by yourself, therefore, you can’t even extract that missing information.
Characteristics of correlational research
- Non-experimental:
Since it does not work upon scientific methodology to manipulate variables to become agree or disagree with a hypothesis. Here the researcher simply observes and measures the relationship between two variables.
- Backward-looking:
This correlational research only observes and measures the recent relationship between 2 variables, so it is backward-looking.
- Dynamic:
The correlation between two variables keeps changing on a daily basis, that’s why it cannot be used for further research.
Advantages of Correlation analysis & research
- Correlation analysis can be used to carry out experimental research which is unethical. For example, research involving human subjects might seem unsafe and unethical.
- Correlation analysis can easily find out the linear statistical relationship between two variables.
- Correlational research is time-saving and less expensive as compared to experimental research.
- In the case of correlation analysis, the researcher can use shallow data gathering techniques, that is, the researcher can take the help of other people to collect information.
Disadvantages of Correlation analysis & research
- It has a limitation that it can only determine a statistical relationship between 2 variables. It cannot establish any connection between more than 2 variables.
- It cannot identify which variable is responsible for the statistical relationship between the 2 variables.
- Since correlation analysis uses past statistical data to find the relationship between 2 variables that’s why its data cannot be used for further research.
- This analysis method only observes the variables, hence the researcher has no control over the variables.
- Correlation analysis provides limited information. It only represents the relationship between the variables but does not equate them to causation.
Conclusion
If you are sure of the aim of your research, then choosing the best type of research and statistical analysis technique will be easy for you. It is best to use the correlation analysis technique when you want to make your data collection procedure more convenient and when you just want to observe the previously gathered information. Because this will save your time and research funding. Good luck!
