This paper represents two intentions: to discuss the need for theoretical advance in generational studies, and to make suggestions about expanding the design repertoire of generational studies in the interests of these theory developments. First, because generational phenomena on the face seem intransigent to experiment, a comment on experimentation and the "real world" is made. Second, some research in social science generally that relates to the substantive field of generational studies is introduced. Third, a summary of some generational research is provided with a note on some weaknesses in the attendant designs. Finally, drawing from material introduced in the second section, some suggestions for experimentation as a means to deal with some of these problems are made. (Author)