Why+do+we+need+to+know+about+giftedness?

=Why do we need to know about giftedness?=

= = Gifted students are present in every school, and every domain. The standard classroom curriculum will not meet the learning needs of these students as their ability is far above the norm for their age level. It is important that these students are correctly identified, and provisions are made for content more suitable to their needs.

Potential
Not meeting the needs of gifted students may have dire consequences. Students who are capable of achieving highly may become disillusioned with school and choose to drop-out. These students may never realise their high potential. It is critical that we encourage our gifted students as they may become the discoverers, inventors, innovators and leaders of our future (Drummer and Siegle, 2009).

Management
Being more informed about the concept of giftedness is critical for every classroom teacher. It will allow a teacher to better meet the learning needs of every student in their class, and therefore remove behaviour management issues that may arise when gifted students get bored and frustrated with work that is too simple. This will make learning a more enjoyable and profitable experience for both students and teacher.

Responsibility
It is a professional obligation as a teacher to meet the needs of all learners as best they can. It is also a requirement for schools to meet the needs of their gifted and talented students as outlined in the National Administration Guidelines.