In the first part of this quote, the speaker mentions their ability to speak French and a few other languages at a basic level. They also note that they learned these skills from instructors who themselves were not proficient speakers, leading to some creative yet incorrect ways of using language. This suggests a playful approach to learning under imperfect conditions.
The deeper meaning of the statement reflects on the nature of education and how it can be influenced by the competence of teachers. When learners are taught by educators who do not have mastery over their subject matter, there is room for both imaginative creativity and significant errors in understanding or application. This highlights a potential downside to relying on less qualified instructors; students might develop an incomplete or distorted grasp of a topic. However, it also implies that this imperfect learning environment can sometimes foster unique perspectives and innovative thinking as learners adapt to the limitations presented by their teachers.
Diane Cilento is a well-known Australian actress, author, and former wife of Sir Laurence Olivier, one of the most renowned actors in British theater history. She had a diverse career spanning acting, writing, and advocacy for various causes throughout her life. Her insights into education and language learning, as expressed in this quote, come from personal experience with both formal and informal teaching environments, adding depth to her reflections on how we acquire knowledge and skills.
