So why is there no discussion on how an economic professor would have attempted to run a more accurate socialism experiment for the students?

A better plan would be for the professor to have rules upfront. Assume that there are 5 tests in the course. If you score an A for the first 4 tests, you get to skip the last test but you must assist on of the weaker student with their last test. If you score a D for your first 4 tests, you will get coaching for your last test.

If you have been scoring F for your tests, you will get counselling. Or if you do not want to improve, you get to leave the course.