“Your
child is gifted!” “Your student is so talented!” But does gifted and talented
mean the same thing? Many programs use the phrase “gifted and talented students”
when describing gifted students. However, many schools and programs differ in
their definitions of giftedness, and likewise, whether or not there is a
difference between gifted and talented has been debated. Knowing the varying
explanations between gifted and talented can help parents with determining the
best school program for their gifted child. Take a look at the differences and
similarities between the words gifted and talented in the context of advanced learning:
Giftedness as
Inherent Potential
Even
with the federal definition of a gifted student, schools vary in their
identification of a gifted learner. For
the most part, a gifted student is identified according to high scores on
specially designed educational testing formats for gifted learners. Some
schools define giftedness as an aptitude in academic subjects, such as
mathematics or English.
Talent Means Developing
One’s Gifts
The
phrase “talented and gifted” is often used in describing gifted programs, but
some schools further define talent as being skilled in PE, drama or music. Other
education pioneers in the field of gifted learning have made distinctions
between giftedness and talent. For example, a student may possess traits that
make foreign language easier to learn compared to his or her peers. However, talent
is about nurturing those gifted language-learning traits, which eventually
translates to achieving language fluency.
The Differences
Between a Gifted Student and Bright Learner
For
the most part, the phrase “gifted and talented” means all students who possess
attributes of a gifted learner. However, many programs distinguish between a
gifted learner and a bright student. For example, a bright student will
demonstrate that he or she knows the answer, but a gifted learner will
demonstrate his or her comprehensive knowledge on the subject by asking
additional in-depth questions.
