Based on the provided case, explain why this study is classified as correlational. Describe the nature of the variables being measured and justify why this design cannot be considered experimental.
Case context: A psychologist is interested in how student beliefs about their own worth affect their school performance. She obtains self-esteem scores from a survey completed by 100 college freshmen and pairs each score with the student's final GPA at the end of the semester. She discovers a positive relationship but does not implement any programs, workshops, or grading changes during the semester.
Question: Based on the provided case, explain why this study is classified as correlational. Describe the nature of the variables being measured and justify why this design cannot be considered experimental.
Sample answer: This study is correlational because the psychologist is collecting data on two naturally occurring variables—self-esteem scores and GPAs—to see if they are statistically related. It cannot be considered experimental because the researcher does not manipulate any independent variable (such as introducing a self-esteem intervention or altering course grading) and simply observes the variables as they naturally exist.
Key points:
- The researcher measures two naturally occurring variables: self-esteem and GPA.
- The researcher investigates if the variables are statistically related.
- No independent variable is manipulated, which differentiates it from an experiment.
Rubric: Award 1 point for explaining that the study measures naturally occurring variables (self-esteem and GPA). Award 1 point for highlighting that no independent variable is manipulated. Award 1 point for linking the lack of manipulation to the definition of a correlational design.
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Based on the provided case, explain why this study is classified as correlational. Describe the nature of the variables being measured and justify why this design cannot be considered experimental.
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