Productive Failure

Productive Failure by Manu Kapur explores the science behind intentionally designing failure to enhance learning.

The book highlights how repeated experiences of constructive failure can help learners develop creativity and deeper understanding.

It outlines four core mechanisms: activation and differentiation of prior knowledge, attention to critical conceptual features, explanation and elaboration, and organization and assembly of these features.

The book provides practical strategies such as retrieval practice, generative problem-solving, motivational hacking, and culture building to deepen learning experiences.

It is applicable in various contexts, including formal schooling, lifelong learning, and organizational settings, helping learners to push themselves outside their comfort zones and use setbacks as launchpads for innovation and growth.