This document provides instructions on how to use Spearman's Rank Correlation Coefficient, a statistical technique to quantify the relationship between two sets of data. It outlines the six steps to calculate Spearman's Rank Correlation Coefficient: 1) state the hypothesis and variables, 2) create a table with the ranks of each variable, 3) use the formula, 4) interpret the results, 5) test for significance, and 6) summarize the results. An example is given of how to report the results, including calculating the coefficient, testing significance, and concluding whether the results support the initial hypothesis.

1. Spearman’s Rank Correlation Coefficient A statistical technique to quantify the degree of relationship – correlation – between two sets of data

5. Spearman’s Rank Correlation Coefficient gives a numerical value (a quantity) to the degree of correlation between 2 sets of data

7. Step 2 – The Table ∑ d 2 Australia Ecuador Taiwan Slovakia France USA China Ethiopia d 2 d Rank Fertility Rate Rank PP (US$) Country

8. Step 3 – The Formula

9. Step 4 – Interpret the Results

10. Step 5 - Test for Significance

12. The Pros – and Cons The Geofile handout (No 511 Jan 2006) – from which a large amount of this information comes – addresses the advantages and disadvantages of Spearman’s Rank. You should be doing the reading.