EAP0203 Learning Consultant

Gifted education (Gifted and Talented Education- GATE) includes special practices, theories and procedures used for gifted or talented children (Cannon, Broyles, Seibel & Anderson, 2009).Focus of GATE is to enrich and accelerate education.Such programs in Western Australia are aimed at teaching additional materials and keeping student progressing through the curriculum at the same rate.The presentation includes description of various theories that are used for Gifted and Talented students

Definition of Gifted and Talented Students

There are no specific definition for gifted and talented students, rather there are multiple indications used by varied groups (Briggs, Reis & Sullivan, 2008).Students who are talented in music, logical reasoning, mathematics or language is regarded as gifted or talented.There is a globally accepted definition of giftedness.

Qualities of the gifted and talented

Multiple intelligence idea allows new way to think regarding students having special gifts and talents.Such students abilities are generally demonstrated through standardized tests or through school achievements (Capern & Hammond, 2014).Such students generally learn quickly and more independently compared to students at their age. Generally they are very motivated with challenging task. They have high standards for achievements

Gifted and Talented students have special needs. Hence, once identified they need to receive special education and guidance in order to accelerate their skills and knowledge levels.The Federal government of Australia and Department of Education offers special education in 20 selected public secondary schools, that includes a full selective academic school, an arts college, a regional school with an online program allowing children to study a specially designed curriculum.  

Gagne’s Differentiated Model of Giftedness and Talent (DMGT) 

The model makes a clear distinction between giftedness and talent.While giftedness is used as a possession and use of untrained expressing of natural abilities, which is referred to as aptitude or gifts (Erwin & Worrell, 2012).Talent is used to indicate a mastery of superior developed ability.A student is regarded as gifted, if placed amongst 10% of his or her peer group. 

 Adopting the model of behaviour will allow teaching students who are gifted and talented (Elhoweris, 2008).It will also allow guiding students towards special education and meeting their educational needs.Education in Western Australia Education for GATE students in Western Australia has received special attention (Montgomery, 2013).There are special selective entrance programs available that can be selected.

Such public schools offer assistance to students as well as schooling so that they can increase their levels of skills and talents.The teachers are specially trained such that they can cater to the needs of children in Western Australia and also from surrounding regions (Rowley, 2012).    

Conclusion

Students with gifts and talents can be educated in a special way by catering to their special needs.The models discussed here helps identify such children with special needs.In Australia, there are various examinations and programs that can determine students with gifts and talents. 

References

Erwin, J. O., & Worrell, F. C. (2012). Assessment practices and the underrepresentation of minority students in gifted   and talented   education. Journal of Psychoeducational  Assessment, 30(1), 74-87.

Montgomery, D. (2013). Gifted and talented children with special educational needs: Double exceptionality.   Routledge.

Rowley, J. L. (2012). Professional development needs ofteachers to identify and cater for gifted students. Australasian Journal of Gifted Education, 21(2),