Central University, Case Study Example

The inclusion of foreign language competency as a requirement for a Bachelor’s degree has become more commonplace as international trade becomes more prevalent.  According to Walker (2009), 71% of AACSB accredited universities have such a requirement.  The dilemma in this case study is not however related to the relative merits of mastering a foreign language.  It is about the fact that an academic requirement is just that – a requirement.  Central could stand to risk credibility, not to speak of accreditation, by simply ignoring an academic requirement because an academic advisor misspoke.

There was clearly a communication problem between the academic advisor and Ms. Jordan.  Ultimately, a student is personally responsible for completing all of the coursework needed for graduation.  The school however is culpable for not having properly trained one of its academic advisors in the proper application of rules regarding coursework requirements.

Ms. Jordan approached the correct person at Central when making her complaint.  Her assertion that she was wrongfully advised by her advisor was valid.  She did exactly the right thing, and made a compelling case.

The head of the committee who will rule on this complaint must maintain the integrity of the school’s accreditation and academic standards while also finding a solution to assist Ms. Jordan with her legitimate problem.  Two possible courses of action would accomplish both.  The CLEP program offers tests in French, German and Spanish (CLEP, 2010).  If Ms. Jordan’s foreign language was one of these, the school could offer her a free proxy to take the test and a free tutor to make sure she passes it.

If her language was available from CLEP, the school could provide Ms. Jordan with a tutor to “fast track” het to the competency required for Central’s test.

References

(Clep 2010 Exam Discriptions) CLEP. (2010). Exam Descriptions. Retrieved from http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/clep/exams.html

(Walker J 2009 Language and culture requirements in international business majors at AACSB accredited schools)Walker, J. (2009). Language and culture requirements in international business majors at AACSB accredited schools. Journal of Teaching in International Business,, 20, 293-311. doi:10.1080/08975930903405050