Contradiction and Failure Log | When Reality Disagrees with the Model

Teaching improves when we keep track of cases that do not behave as expected. A wrong prediction is not wasted if it helps us revise the explanation.

Useful failures include

• An assumed prerequisite that turns out to be secure.
• A diagnostic question that points in the wrong direction.
• An explanation that sounds clear but does not improve later work.
• A repair that works immediately but disappears after delay.
• A method that helps one learner but creates unnecessary load for another.

If reality contradicts the teaching model, the model should move.

The detailed internal failure ledger remains private; this public page explains why contradiction is a normal part of improving instruction.