The main problem with education

[asterism]

See, this is why I hesitate over the term "fluent." You were very likely not actually "functional" in German after 3 years of it in high school, almost certainly not fluent in Spanish from the description above (and "spending lots of time with a Cuban family" does not constitute immersion - hence, my caution with that term earlier), and after one year you were not "fluent" in Arabic in the full meaning of the word. People have a tendency to grossly overestimate their facility with foreign languages, given what complete fluency really means.

I already defined my use of the term for my purposes in this thread, and I was fluent. You can choose to not believe me if you prefer.

I choose to use the term more accurately and realistically. It is almost certain that you were not.

Well then there's nothing more to discuss.

 

[asterism]

I already defined my use of the term for my purposes in this thread

Let's take a look at your overly generous understanding of the term:

I define "fluent" as being able to function in the target language without any other language assistance.

What exactly do you mean by "function"? Do you mean being able to find a post office, ask where the bathroom is, and order some food? Do you mean being able to read the local newspaper from front to back? Do you mean being able to read a novel written in the target language? Do you mean being able to discuss local politics and social issues? Do you mean being able to study academic subjects at a high level using only the target language as the means of communicating and receiving information? Do you mean being able to translate or interpret instantaneously on any subject?



Again, people have a tendency to grossly overestimate their proficiency in other languages. It is perhaps a natural inclination.

Live in a country of the target language and function as a normal member of society. I never tried to translate more than basic or specific technical information, however I taught engineers about weapons systems in Arabic.

 

[Unkotare]

I already defined my use of the term for my purposes in this thread, and I was fluent. You can choose to not believe me if you prefer.

I choose to use the term more accurately and realistically. It is almost certain that you were not.

Well then there's nothing more to discuss.

There's lots more to discuss. For example, what compels some people to overestimate their actual fluency? Ironically, it is often the case that people who are in fact much more proficient become more honest in their self-assessment. Sometimes to the point of underestimating their degree of fluency.

 

[asterism]

I choose to use the term more accurately and realistically. It is almost certain that you were not.

Well then there's nothing more to discuss.

There's lots more to discuss. For example, what compels some people to overestimate their actual fluency? Ironically, it is often the case that people who are in fact much more proficient become more honest in their self-assessment. Sometimes to the point of underestimating their degree of fluency.

I hope that made you feel good.

 

[Unkotare]

Well then there's nothing more to discuss.

There's lots more to discuss. For example, what compels some people to overestimate their actual fluency? Ironically, it is often the case that people who are in fact much more proficient become more honest in their self-assessment. Sometimes to the point of underestimating their degree of fluency.

I hope that made you feel good.

Why would it?

 

[Samson]

Well then there's nothing more to discuss.

There's lots more to discuss. For example, what compels some people to overestimate their actual fluency? Ironically, it is often the case that people who are in fact much more proficient become more honest in their self-assessment. Sometimes to the point of underestimating their degree of fluency.

I hope that made you feel good.