"Creating Equity and Access for Gifted Learners" provides an overview of how and why to implement the ExCEL Problem-based Learning Instruction Model as a change initiative in classrooms, and the impact that this model has had on gifted programs. The product of evidence from two federally-funded Jacob K. Javits grants, The ExCEL Model is…

Problem-based learning is argued to be the most effective means of developing students' general mental abilities, integrating academic and operational approaches to higher education, and instilling a high level of student motivation and capacity for active learning. Conditions for successful problem-based learning are discussed. (Author/MSE)

The problem-centered learning model for gifted students is described and applied to development of learning experiences that are organized around exploration of past, present, and future perspectives of trends, problems, events, and phenomena in the social sciences. Ways to use problem-centered learning in regular classrooms, special programs for…

Describes how a teacher education course with a strong clinical component can help preservice students acquire problem-solving teaching strategies. After summarizing the characteristics of classroom teachers who use the model, the article discusses the key elements of a teacher education course designed for the development of such teachers. (SM)