Although writers have advocated a shift from the gifted child to a talent development paradigm, changes in methods for identifying and cultivating talent in STEM are needed. We present evidence that using a talent development paradigm supported by differentiation with an organicist rather than a mechanistic perspective was effective in identifying…

When used informally, talent development refers to the deliberate cultivation of ability or giftedness in a specific domain. However, recent discussions have used talent development to refer to a particular framework for viewing giftedness and the education of gifted children. In this article, the authors will present their views on the meaning of…

This handbook incorporates the most recent thinking and cutting-edge research from a wide range of fields related to gifted education, including developmental and social psychology, the neurosciences, cognitive science, and education. It consists of six sections: (1) History and global perspectives on the gifted field and talent development; (2)…

Robert Sternberg's WICS model for identifying gifted individuals broadens the standard conception of giftedness and makes many helpful suggestions on how to conceptualize and assess the relevant dimensions of giftedness. There is one area, however, where the authors would propose an alternate viewpoint. "In a sense, this essay is about how to…

The cultivation of talented behavior necessitates identification of (1) the personality attributes inherent in the individual that can serve as predictors of subsequent talented behavior; and (2) the processes by which personality attributes can be reinforced or modified to produce subsequent socially valued behavior. A longitudinal study of Texas…

This pamphlet examines the limitations of traditional identification strategies as they are applied to children from minority and nontraditional cultural backgrounds, and then suggests more effective alternatives. Conventional group tests are criticized for not providing a sufficient basis for addressing students' needs with regard to enrichment.…

Gifted children need help to realize their contributions to self and society. Too often their talents go unrecognized and their needs unmet. Many Americans hesitate to encourage intellectual or creative talents, but don't complain if students are separated for remedial reading or varsity athletics. (Author/MLW)

Crystallizing experiences are defined as those which involve remarkable and memorable contact between a person with unusual talent, or potential, and the materials of the field in which the talent will be manifested. Several biographies of talented people in several disciplines including music, mathematics, and visual arts are discussed. Examples…

This textbook focuses on the development and education of talented children and adults. Part 1 considers who the gifted and talented are, in terms of personality aspects, intellectual competence, and specific talent in a domain. It presents a pyramidal framework of talent based on looking at adult talent and its precursors in childhood behavior.…