Navigating Gifted Programs: An Inside Look at How Children are Taught

Stepping into a gifted program can be a journey filled with unique learning experiences and challenges. As someone who participated in a gifted program in public elementary school and later attended a magnet STEM high school, I have firsthand insight into what makes these programs distinct and effective.

Individualized Instruction: Tailored Learning

Gifted programs are known for their individualized instruction. Before a child is admitted to a gifted program, their abilities are quantified through standardized testing. This allows teachers to set tasks at the appropriate difficulty level for each student, ensuring that every child is challenged and engaged.

Exposure to Advanced Topics

One of the most striking features of these programs is the exposure to advanced topics. In my elementary school gifted program, we studied architecture, foreign languages, advanced mathematics, and reading. These topics are typically beyond the scope of regular school curricula, providing a rich and diverse educational experience.

Smaller Class Sizes and Self-Directed Learning

Smaller class sizes in gifted programs promote self-directed learning. Students are encouraged to explore topics independently under the guidance of supportive teachers. This approach not only fosters a sense of responsibility but also enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Challenging Homework and Fluid Advancement

Homework in gifted programs is designed to be challenging and thought-provoking. Instead of reiterating classroom lessons, homework requires students to think beyond the material presented. Additionally, gifted programs often allow fluid advancement, meaning that students can progress at their own pace, regardless of their age.

Supportive Environments and Counseling

Supportive environments are crucial in gifted programs, and they often include mental health support for students who may struggle with asynchronous development. Such development can be characterized by a significant gap between intellectual and emotional maturity, or physical underdevelopment, which can impact a child's social and emotional well-being.

Variations in Program Implementation

The implementation of gifted programs can vary greatly depending on the school district and the country. At Spring Ford, where I attended, the program was highly informal with no lectures. Instead, it involved hands-on activities that tested knowledge and problem-solving skills. This approach proved to be highly engaging and effective for students.

Gifted programs aim to reduce repetition, allowing for more efficient learning. For example, a gifted child might be given fewer but more challenging math problems compared to a regular student, or they might learn to read much more quickly. This abundance of spare time can be effectively used to explore other subjects, such as chess, another language, or drawing.

Regular programs often use a bottom-up approach, where teachers provide step-by-step instructions to reach a target. In contrast, a top-down approach, commonly used in gifted programs, starts with the whole picture and works towards the details. This method can be extremely frustrating for regular students but is often more appealing to gifted learners.

Another critical aspect of gifted programs is the importance of regular peer contact. Gifted children often benefit from socializing with other gifted students due to their advanced cognitive abilities. This can be challenging in smaller schools, but it is essential. Opening up official classes for gifted children or organizing extracurricular activities can bridge this gap.

Concluding Thoughts

Gifted programs offer a unique and enriching educational experience that caters to the diverse needs of high-achieving students. These programs are not only beneficial for the students themselves but also for their peers. The insights gained from participating in a gifted program can lead to a better understanding of how to foster a more inclusive, supportive, and challenging educational environment for all students.