Theory vs. Theory & Their Connection to Identifying the Gifted
Gifted: Myth vs. Truth (cont.)
In his article Is Every Child Gifted?, Runco examines broad and inclusive views of giftedness that emphasize the individuality of the student. He maintains that an inclusive approach, if carried to the extreme, could include everyone in at least one domain. He points out the possible problem of relying on products for assessing creativity because some children may be overlooked simply because they do not yet know how to construct socially meaningful products.
Review the following myths and truths about gifted students. Perhaps they will give you a clearer picture and deeper understanding of gifted students.
COMMON MYTHS About Gifted Students
- Gifted students are a homogeneous group, all high achievers.
- Gifted students do not need help. If they are really gifted, they can manage on their own.
- Gifted students have fewer problems than others because their intelligence and abilities somehow exempt them from the hassles of daily life.
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TRUTHS About Gifted Students
- Gifted students are often perfectionists and idealistic. They may equate achievement and grades with self-esteem and self-worth, which sometimes leads to fear of failure and interferes with achievement.
- Gifted students may experience heightened sensitivity to their own expectations and those of others, resulting in guilt over achievements or grades perceived to be low.
* Gifted students are asynchronous. Their chronological age, social, physical, emotional, and intellectual development may all be at different levels. For example, a 5-year-old may be able to read and comprehend a third-grade book but may not be able to write legibly.
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Summing it all up
This week as we view the statistics, we see the reality as it compares to the theories and the research. How do these statistics measure up with the reality in many classrooms? How can a teacher develop a teaching environment conducive to continued development of the brain when many times hands are tied by mandates and required curriculum and methods of presentation? The first step is awareness, the second is a combination of imagination, creativity, and the desire to provide the best learning opportunities for your students. Knowledge is power, but knowledge must be shared. Armed with the truth, you can make a difference!
Use the matrix and the assignment checklist as your guides for completing the week's assignments.