World Language Substitution
To receive a world language substitution, the student must qualify for the substitution based on documentation on file in the DRO. If documentation indicates a disability that significantly affects foreign language acquisition, the student may qualify for a substitution. If a student has a history of success in foreign language classes, generally he/she may not be eligible for substitution since that indicates the ability to achieve foreign language learning. The reports that are most helpful in determining eligibility directly address foreign language acquisition, recommend whether a substitute is warranted, and explain the circumstances that would need to be in place for the student to successfully complete foreign language coursework.
World language coursework at NC State typically involves skill acquisition in the areas of speaking, listening, reading, and writing. It is helpful if the student’s disability documentation explains how the disability specifically prevents the student from acquiring foreign language skills in these areas.
If documentation does not address the barrier to foreign language acquisition, you must seek further evaluation from a qualified diagnostician. If you do not seek further evaluation, you will be required to meet the foreign language proficiency and degree requirements of foreign language, if applicable, of your college. The DRO does not accept the Modern Language Aptitude Test (MLAT) as an appropriate diagnostic predictor of foreign language acquisition. It is a useful instrument to predict how well, relative to others, an individual can learn a foreign language in a given amount of time and under given conditions, but it cannot be used as the sole basis for a diagnosis of a foreign language learning disability. The use of the MLAT as one part of a more comprehensive assessment of the learning of foreign language is acceptable.
If you qualify for a world language substitution, a letter will be sent to the Associate Dean of your college. Typically, the selection of the substitute course is determined by the World Language Department.