tutor-service/openspec/changes/bootstrap-job-tutor-platform/specs/learning-progression/spec.md

learning-progression Specification

ADDED Requirements

Requirement: Learning progression is evidence-backed and game-inspired

The system SHALL use game-inspired progression loops to make study sessions rewarding while tying progress to learning evidence.

Scenario: session loop ends with visible progress

• GIVEN a user completes an interview-practice loop
• WHEN the system grades the answer and extracts memory
• THEN the user sees what improved, what remains weak, and the next recommended challenge
• AND any progress shown is linked to grading or memory evidence.

Scenario: adaptive challenge stays near learner ability

• GIVEN the learner repeatedly fails a concept at the current difficulty
• WHEN the next challenge is selected
• THEN the system lowers difficulty, changes explanation strategy, or inserts a recovery question
• AND does not simply continue escalating difficulty.

Requirement: Progression surfaces support interview readiness

The system SHALL expose progression surfaces that help job seekers understand interview readiness.

Scenario: readiness map summarizes concept state

• GIVEN the learner has completed diagnostic or practice sessions
• WHEN the readiness map is displayed
• THEN each concept has a readiness state
• AND the state can be traced to answer evidence, misconception evidence, or review completion.

Scenario: boss question unlocks after prerequisite stability

• GIVEN a cluster of prerequisite concepts is stable enough
• WHEN the user reaches the next milestone
• THEN the system may unlock an integrated boss-style interview question
• AND the question combines multiple concepts under realistic constraints.

Requirement: Engagement mechanics avoid exploitative patterns

The system SHALL avoid engagement mechanics that encourage unhealthy compulsion or shame.

Scenario: streaks do not punish missed days

• GIVEN a user misses a scheduled practice day
• WHEN the user returns
• THEN the system helps the user resume with a recovery plan
• AND does not erase durable learning progress.

Scenario: rewards are connected to learning value

• GIVEN the system awards progress, badges, unlocks, or generated assets
• WHEN the reward is shown
• THEN it reflects mastery, effort, review completion, or interview readiness
• AND is not primarily a gambling-like random reward.