July 24-25

Comparative case study (CCS) is an approach used across disciplines that attends simultaneously to macro, meso, and micro dimensions of case-based research, an effective way to synthesize information across time and space. In this course, Drs. Bartlett and Vavrus will describe, explain, and illustrate specific analytic opportunities via the horizontal (spaces), vertical (scales), and transversal (time) axes of comparative case studies in order to help participants develop their own CCS research design.

On Day 1, the course will present the epistemological, theoretical, and methodological premises of comparative case studies while also addressing the literature review and research questions. The instructors will also discuss the various logics of comparison and present CCS examples. During in-class exercises, participants will have opportunities to begin designing a CCS based on their own research questions. Day 2 will provide opportunities for small group discussion, allowing participants to work through a research design, receive feedback, and revise their strategy. Instructors will address questions and provide additional feedback, as time permits, in the larger group. Finally, the course will discuss challenges of using CCS and how to manage them.