Thick and thin contextualization: Reflections on the STEP cases

In this paper we introduce the distinction between thin and thick contextualization and defend its relevance for the purpose of drawing lessons from case studies. The global dataset of STEP case studies represent the object of analysis. In particular, it is our view that in order to enhance the comparability of case studies and thereby strengthen their external validity, we need to move beyond thin contextualization and eventually attain thick contextualization. Three strategies to activate contextual information are discussed in the paper.