There indeed is a disconnect between passing an exam and actually using the knowledge.

I've built several learning simulations over the years. They all failed (from a commercial perspective).

The problem is that simulations tend to show a person's incompetence rather quickly. This person might be able to pass the test, but . . . .

So if a field of study does not have simulations as part of its culture, the student who fails the simulation is quick to discredit the simulation as ineffective.

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BTW, a few years ago you wrote an article about how comedians have to "punch up" to earn their audience. I can't find that article.