Module 7

Module Seven Causal-Comparative, and Correlational Research

Learning Objectives

Based on the text and class discussions, state the primary purpose(s) for causal comparative research.

Based on the text and class discussions, state the primary purpose(s) for correlational research.

Based on the text and class discussions, create a definition for correlation, include range of values.

Given the obtained scores on two variables: (1) create a scatterplot, (2) approximate the regression line, (3) estimate the correlation, and (4) interpret the correlation.

Given an empirical research article; identify the participant(s), independent variable(s), dependent variable(s), extraneous variable(s), type (causal comparative or correlational), experimental group, control group, research question, research hypothesis, null hypothesis, data collection, data reduction technique(s), and conclusions reached.

Given a c-c or corr research article, identify the threats to INternal validity.

Given a c-c or corr research article, identify the threats to EXternal validity.

Given a c-c or corr research article, evaluate the strength of the research design.

Given the variable and the scores on that variable, create a frequency table and histogram.

Based on the text and class discussions, contrast normal, skewed, kurtotic, bi-modal distributions.

Given the variable, the scores on that variable, and the created frequency table and histogram, identify the shape of the distribution of scores.

Based on the text and class discussions, contrast the measures of central tendency.

Based on the text and class discussions, contrast the measures of variability.

Given the variable and the scores on that variable, identify the mode, median, and mean.

Given the variable and the scores on that variable, identify the range, standard deviation, and variance.

Given the variable and the scores on that variable, evaluate which measure of central tendency and which measure of variability is most appropriate.

Overview of Module 7 Notes

Causal Comparative and Correlation Research

Differences Between Causal Comparative and Correlation Research

Types of Data

Types of Curves

Central Tendency

Variability

The validity of the research study

Internal Validity

Twelve Threats to Internal Validity

Eight Threats to External Validity

Click here to access Module 7 Notes.

On-line Activities

Studying Through Descriptions

With your group and using the empirical research article, "The Impact of Middle School Reform Initiatives on Student Achievement and Retention in a Florida Magnet School", answer the following questions:

1. Who are the participant(s)?

2. What are the variables of interest?

3. Identify, where possible, which of those variables (in #2) are independent variable(s) and which are dependent variable(s).

4. Are there any extraneous variable(s)? List no more than 3.

5. Is this study best described as a causal comparative or correlational study?

6. What method was used to select participants (sampling)?

7. What is the research question?

8. What is the research hypothesis?

9. What is the null hypothesis, if any?

10. What methods were used to collect the data?

11. What methods were used for data reduction (summarization)?

12. What conclusions were reached? Are these reasonable given the findings?

13. Are there any threats to the validity of the study (internal or external)? If so, identify them (limit yourself to 3 or fewer), and determine a way to alter the design to avoid these threats.