Qualitative Comparative Analysis as a Nested Approach to Inquiry
26 Pages Posted: 13 Jul 2012 Last revised: 2 Aug 2012
Date Written: 2012
Abstract
This paper provides an innovative addition to the nested analysis approach. Nested analysis is described as being catholic with regard to the use of method including, but not limited to, qualitative comparative analysis. However, in regards to integrating qualitative comparative analysis within a nested strategy, this paper demonstrates that such a combination is problematic due to inherent differences between these two approaches. This paper elaborates the reasons for these difficulties, and furthermore shows that such a combination is possible through small-yet-necessary modifications to the original nested framework. The results from this paper not only provide a useful complement to the nested approach, but also offer a practical guide to those generally interested in pursuing qualitative comparative analysis.
Keywords: Nested Analysis, Qualitative Comparative Analysis, QCA, LNA, SNA, Mixed Methods
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