Students with gifts and talents

Abstract

Students who are gifted and talented have many outstanding attributes in a variety of areas. Some may demonstrate superior intellectual, academic, and creative abilities while others may demonstrate remarkable skills in visual and performing arts. The problem inherent in defining giftedness is the many attributes that are identified with giftedness, and the problematic nature by which evaluations are conducted. Although an individual test of intelligence can identify high achievers, a multidimensional approach to identification is needed if we are to identify all children with gifts and talents, especially those from underserved and neglected populations. While efforts to provide enhanced educational opportunities for gifted and talented students are inundated with problems, most school districts do attempt to provide a differentiated curricular to meet the needs of high ability students. What is needed is a federal law that mandates a free and appropriate individualized education program for all students with gifts and talents similar to that provided for children with disabilities.

Citation

Daniels, V.I. (2003), "Students with gifts and talents", Obiakor, F.E., Utley, C.A. and Rotatori, A.F. (Ed.) Effective Education for Learners with Exceptionalities (Advances in Special Education, Vol. 15), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 325-348. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0270-4013(03)80045-4