tutor-service/.planning/phases/004-progression/004-RESEARCH.md

Phase 4 Research: Progression

Findings

Learner memory already stores the minimum evidence needed for progression:

• concept mastery state
• evidence references
• misconceptions
• review schedules
• interventions

The MVP progression surface can therefore be computed as a projection rather than a new durable source of truth.

Recommended Shape

• internal/progression owns readiness projection and challenge selection.
• learnermemory.Service remains the source for learner state.
• Readiness percentage should be simple and explainable.
• Challenge ladder should map readiness state to the next useful task:
  • unknown/fragile: define or recovery
  • improving: tradeoffs
  • interview-ready: design constraints
  • strong signal: interview pressure
• Boss unlock requires at least two stable concepts with evidence.

Risks

• Too much gamification logic can become speculative. Keep it deterministic.
• Readiness percentages can feel fake if not traceable. Include evidence.
• Missing memory should return a normal 404, not invented progress.