Using Correlational and Causal-Comparative Research Designs in Practice

In this chapter, readers learn about how to use correlational and causal-comparative research designs. This includes an introduction to both methodologies, discussing how they are similar as well as how they are different. When to use correlational and causal-comparative designs is discussed, as are examples of research questions appropriate for each method. Hypotheses appropriate for each method, issues of sample size, confounding variables, and statistical significance are discussed, as are common aspects of data analysis and data interpretation (e.g., Pearson correlation coefficient, descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, visual expressions of data). Threats to validity are also discussed. Concepts are illustrated with a case example.