> I think this was [Manager's] attempt at career development for me
Just from what you've told, it doesn't sound like it was.
Sadly, some people just have to prove that they're smarter. Whatever you suggest, they will insist that the correct answer is something else. They won't give you a reason for that supposed correct answer because there isn't one. It's an ego thing.
"I need you to get to the reason by yourself!" is not something any competent manager is going to say. That's not how learning works.
I'm glad you were able to leave. That sounds horrible.
Just from what you've told, it doesn't sound like it was.
Sadly, some people just have to prove that they're smarter. Whatever you suggest, they will insist that the correct answer is something else. They won't give you a reason for that supposed correct answer because there isn't one. It's an ego thing.
"I need you to get to the reason by yourself!" is not something any competent manager is going to say. That's not how learning works.
I'm glad you were able to leave. That sounds horrible.