Co-relation is a statistical data test that shows an association between variables. It is a quantitative method of research, which determines whether there exists a relationship or co-variation between sets of variables. There are three possible results while conducting a co-relational study; positive, negative or no correlation (Gordon, n.d). Positive correlation gives a coefficient close to +1.00 while negative provides a coefficient close to -1.oo. When the coefficient of correlation is zero, it indicates no correlation. Co-relational studies are limited on the fact that they only show the association but do not indicate the direction or the magnitude of relation. They do not provide prove that a change in variable causes another variable to change. Co-relational studies may be conducted using naturalistic observation, surveys, archival research (Price and Oswald, 2008).
Examples of correlated variables are saving and financial stability: the more money one saves, the more financially stable he/she becomes. There exists a positive correlation between these two variables as financial stability decreases with a decrease in savings. A workplace example of correlation is on performance and training. Workers who are exclusively trained to work are more productive than those who are untrained. The variables levels of training and production are correlated as one determines the result of the other.
Co relational research can be used in workplaces in determining the level of output of the workers, and the factors that determine the worker’s levels of output (Kendra, n.d). For instance, despite training provided above other variables that may determine output may include salaries, leadership styles, participation in making decisions, and passion, among others. Such variables provide the relationship that exists between them and performance, which can be used by an organization’s management to improve on workers’ conditions.
Reference.
Gordon, O., E. (No date). Co relational Designs. Retrieved from:
http://www.psych.utah.edu/gordon/Classes/Psych_3010/Lecture%20Correlation_2.html
Kendra, C. (No Date). Co relational Studies: How Co relational studies are used in Psychology Research. Retrieved from: http://psychology.about.com/od/researchmethods/a/correlational.htm
Price & Oswald. (2008). Co relational Studies. California State University. Retrieved from: http://psych.csufresno.edu/psy144/Content/Design/Types/correlational.html
