As a practice scholar, you are searching for evidence to translate into practice. In your review of evidence, you locate a quasi-experimental research study as possible evidence to support a practice change. You notice that the study aims to make a prediction that relates to correlation between study variables. The study sample size is large and normally distributed. Reflect upon this scenario to address the following.
In your appraisal of the evidence, you note that an independent variable is not present and that a Spearman’s ranked correlation is used to analyze data. Is this the correct level of correlational analysis? Explain your
rationale.
Are association and correlational analysis equivalent in determining relationships between variables?
Do these findings impact your decision about whether to use this evidence to inform practice change? Why or why not?