Plain English Meaning
Correlation is the point where a student can link new knowledge to other things they already know, and use those connections to think through new situations.
Full Definition
In the cognitive domain of learning, correlation is the highest level of understanding, at which a learner connects what has just been learned with previously learned material or with material yet to be learned, and recognizes how it all fits together. It is the level beyond rote, understanding, and application.
Context Anchor
Seen in instructor discussions about how deeply a student has learned a subject or skill, especially when judging whether the student can use it beyond a single lesson.
Derivation
From the Latin 'com-' (together) and 'relatio' (a bringing back, a relation). Literally 'a relating together.' The origin reinforces the idea: correlation is about tying ideas together, not just knowing them in isolation.