Quantitative Essay
The aim of this essay is to look into the correlation and difference test. It will also explain how to analyse both the testing methods and how each test is conducted. SPSS was used to conduct both the correlation and difference tests and the tables and graphs that are used are also from this programme. Wagner (2007) says that using SPSS for social statistics and research methods indicates the many elements of the programme and how to use it successfully.
Correlation Test
Correlation is a key part of statistical data and is used to describe the degree of relationship between two variables. This includes the strength and direction of the relationship (Bryman and Cramer, 2009). When carrying out this test a scatter graph is plotted so that it can then be analysed. A scatter graph allows a large range of values to be used and both variables can be shown on the same graph at the same time (Argyrous, 2005). The Y-axis is the dependant variable, this is the affected variable. Then the X-axis is the independent variable which affects the other variable (Argyrous, 2005). Once the scatter graph has been plotted the direction, correlation and the strength of the correlation can be analysed. Analysis becomes a lot more intensive after the data has been collected (Thomas, J.R, 2005).
The correlation can be positive or negative and is represented as a numerical figure. This decimal figure ranges from -1 to +1 (Hosker, 2008) When the figure is 0 this means that there is no relationship between the two variables. A positive correlation is where one variable increases at the same time as the other increases. A negative correlation is where one variable increases and the other decreases. (Downing, D and Clark, J. 2010)
The strength of the scatter graph shows how close the results are. It is important to include a line of best fit which then shows clearly the strength of the scatter graph. If all the points are close to the line of best fit this equals a strong positive
Correlation Test
Correlation is a key part of statistical data and is used to describe the degree of relationship between two variables. This includes the strength and direction of the relationship (Bryman and Cramer, 2009). When carrying out this test a scatter graph is plotted so that it can then be analysed. A scatter graph allows a large range of values to be used and both variables can be shown on the same graph at the same time (Argyrous, 2005). The Y-axis is the dependant variable, this is the affected variable. Then the X-axis is the independent variable which affects the other variable (Argyrous, 2005). Once the scatter graph has been plotted the direction, correlation and the strength of the correlation can be analysed. Analysis becomes a lot more intensive after the data has been collected (Thomas, J.R, 2005).
The correlation can be positive or negative and is represented as a numerical figure. This decimal figure ranges from -1 to +1 (Hosker, 2008) When the figure is 0 this means that there is no relationship between the two variables. A positive correlation is where one variable increases at the same time as the other increases. A negative correlation is where one variable increases and the other decreases. (Downing, D and Clark, J. 2010)
The strength of the scatter graph shows how close the results are. It is important to include a line of best fit which then shows clearly the strength of the scatter graph. If all the points are close to the line of best fit this equals a strong positive