This research review will be particularly useful for teachers with responsibilities around gifted and talented programmes and their delivery.
What works for gifted and talented pupils
Synopsis
This literature review by the National Foundation for Education Research (NFER) outlines the findings from research focused on the practice of teaching gifted and talented pupils. The review set out to suggest practical recommendations for developing gifted and talented education.
The literature reviewed at the time indicated that there had been relatively few empirical studies of gifted and talented education and, consequently, evidence-based policy and practice was scarce. Instead, much of the literature reflects practitioner experience. The literature identified different processes including methods of identification, differentiation, enrichment, acceleration, classroom organisation, monitoring and evaluation as well as the roles and responsibilities taken on by various individuals.
It also found that there is considerably more literature on 'gifted' pupils (those displaying discrete or generalized ability in the 'academic' curriculum) than on 'talented' pupils (pupils displaying ability in practical activities or artistic fields).