Characteristics of gifted programs that stick out like a "sore thumb" include vulnerability to charges of elitism, the notion that gifted students are better students, a lack of teacher support, and a high degree of rigidity. (CL)

Planning is of prime importance in providing programs for gifted and talented students. Districts should emphasize an awareness campaign on the premises and needs of gifted education. An individual should then be appointed and trained as the district specialist in gifted and talented education. (CL)

The author satirizes the status of teacher education in gifted education, cites the conceptual weakness of arguments justifying support for gifted programs, and considers the need to train teachers to provide enriched programs for all students and to focus on the academic content areas. (CL)

Suggests initial considerations in developing programs for gifted and talented students: identification, program format, community involvement, and curriculum. (SJL)

Last year Marian Leibowitz presented workshops in 27 states on improving instruction for gifted and talented students. In this interview she gives an overview of what she has seen in programs around the country. (Author/MLF)

Development of programs for the gifted requires planning (at the school and classroom levels) based on a conception of gifted education and consideration of goals, content, differentiation strategies, and organizational form. Program operation involves subprocesses of program adoption, program delivery, and program institutionalization. (DB)

The paper advocates curriculum extension programmes which emanate from the immediate and specific needs and interests of pupils. Meeting the needs of exceptionally able pupils is seen as an aspect of providing opportunities for all pupils to develop this potential, and the extension programme is set within the existing resources (both human and…

The interview with J. Gallagher focuses on the effects of recent reports on secondary education in America on the education of gifted and talented students. Gallagher suggests that the calls for excellence will highlight the importance of gifted education and notes the challenges involved in program improvement. (CL)

Two educators respond to four questions concerning gifted and talented students. Topics include program development in a small town, a bright student's dissatisfaction, and parents' concerns over their daughter's religious fanaticism. (CL)

Saturday enrichment programs are viable options for gifted children who are not served in the public schools. Because such programs are not dependent on schools or state departments for funding, or for initiation, Saturday programs can be successfully operated by parent and other advocacy groups. Guidelines for considering such programs focus on…

The author describes his early experience with the Talented Youth Project and stresses the need for planning the total experience of the gifted student. Models for curriculum differentiation are noted. (CL)

Asserts that programs for the gifted/talented are virtually nonexistent in New Jersey's vocational schools, which serve a large portion of the state's high school population. Lists some of the efforts which will be needed to change this situation. (SJL)

Planning and management suggestions are offered to administrators developing gifted programs in rural settings. Emphasis on making effective use of limited time and personnel, creativity in financing and transportation, and dealing sensitively with community feelings. (Author/DB)

A summary of the educational development in the United Kingdom in the 20th century cites the growing concern for students with exceptional needs despite reluctance to use the term gifted. Government publications and their implications for gifted education are reviewed and proposals for the future are offered. (CL)

Summarizes the findings of a symposium on identifying and developing programs for gifted minority children. The school is the major agency for preparing the gifted minority for productive citizenship, and the key element is the teacher's ability to recognize and support the student's potential. (KH)