In March 1978, under the suggestion of Chinese-born Nobel Prize laureate Tsung-Dao Lee, China launched its first gifted education program at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC). Based on nominations and interviews, 21 gifted students aged 11-16 were enrolled in USTC and comprised a special class. Five years later, the early…

Programs offered by Israel's Department for Gifted Children and Science Oriented Youth are described, focusing on the Ofek School's pull-out programs for students from both religious and secular schools, the science activities of the Weizmann Institute, other science-oriented programs, and study tours for foreign students. (JDD)

The gifted program at a secondary school near Montreal (Quebec, Canada) is described. The program serves 7 percent of the school's 1700 students and includes special classes, facilities, and opportunities. The program is pyramidally structured, feeding from foundation development and self-enrichment into specialization. Core staff, mentors,…

Education of the gifted in Israel is described, focusing on its historical background, aims, definitions, pupil identification, programs, curriculum, and teachers. Programs consist of special classes, morning and afternoon enrichment groups, and two associations: The Institute for the Promotion of Arts and Science, and Programs for the Promotion…

Comparison of primary grade students (n=67) with mild mental retardation in Croatia (Yugoslavia) receiving either a special program designed by special and regular educators, regular class services but no special educational help, occasional special educational help, or special services in a special school found that students in the first group…

Asserts that research on parents of children with special needs often reveals their lack of power and difficulty in establishing partnerships with professionals. Reports on a study of parents of 114 special needs students. Finds that parents of mild/moderate learning difficulties do not have powerful advocacy groups to promote their cause. (CFR)

A study compared the attitudes of 91 regular teachers, 124 second year pre-service teachers, and 91 gifted program teachers from Finland and the United States toward gifted children and gifted programs. Results indicated significant differences between cultures and among teacher types. American teachers were more favorable toward special services…