Explores the limitations of existing congruence career development and counseling models, which are described as inconsistent with the goals of talent development. A new model of career counseling that focuses on talent development is introduced and its assumptions, goals, assessment focus, process, and practices are identified. (CR)

Strategies are discussed that provide a theoretically sound, valid, and practical framework for evaluating the processes used in identifying gifted/talented students. The strategies stress assessing the relevance of instruments used, their reliability and validity, their limitations, and using a variety of evaluation techniques. (JDD)

Self-images of 76 male/101 female adolescents talented in mathematics, science, music, athletics, or art were compared to those of 112 male/106 female average teenagers, using the Offer Self-Image Questionnaire for Adolescents. Talented adolescents had self-images generally similar to their average peers. Implications for the development of talent…

A theoretical approach to talent development in emerging nations is proposed, based on principles of curricular intervention derived from qualitative research. Implementation of such a culturally appropriate curriculum in Ebeye, Marshall Islands, illustrates the approach. Adaptations to other cultures are suggested. (Author/DB)

This article summarizes Renzulli's Revolving Door Identification Model, an approach to the identification of gifted and talented students. It then investigates reasons for its popularity, addresses criticisms leveled against the model, and assesses its validity and utility for identifying and serving gifted students. (Author/JDD)

This article examines the nature of musical ability and ways in which it can be identified, including several tests currently in use. It then considers the problem of making suitable provision for musically gifted pupils at the primary and secondary levels. A list of recommended readings is included. (Author/PB)

This panel paper includes discussions from professional artists on pivotal stages and forces in their artistic and career development. Factors identified and recommended for emphasis in curriculum development are motivation, confidence, discipline, basic skills, structure, and studying with gifted teachers. Numerous possible roles for the art…

Responds to the previous article, which proposed a set of 22 sequentially structured statements on the nature and origin of human abilities, gifts, and talents. Takes issue with the distinction made between natural abilities and systematically developed abilities, and thus the distinction between giftedness and talent. (Author/CR)

Responds to the initial article in this issue that proposes a set of 22 sequentially structured statements on the nature and origin of human abilities, gifts, and talents. Suggests a more comprehensive theory of elite performance composed of three components: general intelligence, domain-specific skills, and practice. (Author/CR)

Responds to the initial article in this issue that proposes a set of 22 statements on the nature and origin of human abilities, gifts, and talents. Argues that a comprehensive rationale is missing, particularly an explanation of developmental mechanisms, of learning processes, and of the dynamics of gene/environment interaction. (Author/CR)

This rejoinder to articles responding to a set of 22 sequentially structured statements on the nature and origin of human abilities, gifts, and talents presented in this issue's initial article, defends the validity and usefulness of the distinction between high natural abilities (gifts) and high systematically developed ones (talents) as compared…

This article offers a model that distinguishes between natural abilities (or aptitudes) and systematically developed skills (talents). Aptitudes are seen as the constituent elements of talents, which are developed by such constructs as motivation, temperament, and significant persons. The model is then applied to the appropriate use of labels for…

The education of gifted children in Italy is discussed and past and present research on the topic is reviewed. The role of cultural values in educational policy decisions for gifted children and for community institutions is analyzed, along with efforts to construct a new identification of gifted optimal human development. (Contains extensive…

Despite extensive research, questions underlying the nature and nurture of talent remain both numerous and diverse. In the current paper, we present an account that addresses 2 of the primary questions inspired by this debate: (a) the very existence of innate talents and (b) how exceptional abilities are developed. The development of exceptional…

How to make initial on-camera appearances a success. (Author)