Modification of the Foreign Language Requirement

All students, including those with learning disabilities who anticipate difficulty in satisfying the Barnard language requirement, are expected to attempt elementary courses in language during their first year at Barnard. Students should work closely with instructors and keep them, their advisers, and ODS fully informed of difficulties in mastering course material.

Students with diagnosed learning disabilities who experience severe problems in language learning may choose to petition the faculty Committee on Programs and Academic Standing for a possible modification of the requirement. Students should discuss their specific situations with their advisers and the staff of ODS and then meet with Dean of Studies Karen Blank. The petitioning process can be lengthy and involved; careful planning, communication, and attention to detail are essential. Petition forms are available from the Registrar's Office in 107 Milbank and should be accompanied by:

1. the student’s written statement briefly summarizing her comprehensive academic record of language study in high school and college;

2. a letter from Director of Disability Services Susan Quinby re: the student’s disability-related needs and her utilization of support services in attempting to meet the requirement;

3. a written statement from each of the student's language instructors commenting on her learning experience in their classrooms and assessing her ability to complete successfully the qualifying course for the requirement;

4. a psychoeducational evaluation by a certified psychologist or recognized clinic which meets ODS documentation guidelines.

The Committee carefully considers each petition and, if an exception is warranted, determines the specific modification appropriate to that individual student.

ODS 08/09