Traits and Characteristics Gifted Learners: Traits and Characteristics Patti Wood, PhD Samford University

Thinking About Giftedness What do you think of when you hear the word giftedness? Who are some people you would say are gifted and why? What characteristics do they display?

Who are Gifted Learners? Comprehend complex ideas quickly Learn more rapidly and in greater depth than their age peers Exhibit interests that differ from those of their peers Need time for in-depth exploration Manipulate ideas and draw generalizations about seemingly unconnected concepts Ask provocative questions

Characteristics of Giftedness: Intellectual/Academic Advanced language Logical thinking Motivation, persistence Advanced reading, writing, and/or math Advanced interests Exceptional reasoning ability Intellectual curiosity Rapid learning rate Passion for learning

Characteristics of Giftedness: Creative original independent risk-taking energetic curious advanced sense of humor aware of own creativity

Characteristics of Giftedness: Personality insightfulness intensity sensitivity/empathy perseverance need for mental stimulation need for precision/logic acute self-awareness nonconformity tendency toward introversion

Characteristics of Giftedness: Leadership assertive decision-making persuasive/innovator strong communication skills competent (knowledgeable) accepts responsibility organizational ability persistent integrity risk-taker charismatic altruistic goal-oriented

Characteristics of Giftedness: Affective Asynchronous Development Mental ability outstrips chronological age and physical development. Perfectionism Multipotentiality Underachievement Depression/Stress

Characteristics: Not-so-attractive sloppy, disorganized self-centered, intolerant moody, emotional forgetful, absentminded overactive physically or mentally tends to question rules & authority stubborn, uncooperative may not participate in class activities argumentative, sarcastic, rebellious

Bright/High-Achiever Gifted/Talented Learner vs. Gifted/Talented Learner

A High Achiever… Knows the answer Grasps meaning Is interested Has good ideas Understands ideas Completes assignments Grasps meaning Listens with interest Absorbs information Is receptive

A Gifted Learner… Asks the question Is curious May have unexpected ideas Constructs abstractions Initiates projects Draws inferences Demonstrates strong opinions Manipulates information

In the classroom, the high achiever… Completes all homework on time Is concerned about format and project requirements Is organized Works neatly Controls group projects Maintains perfect attendance Strives for an “A” Follows all the rules

In the classroom, the gifted learner… Forgets to complete assignments Focuses on a unique aspect of an assignment or project Is disorganized Asks deep questions about a topic Spends hours on research and minutes on presentation Does not care about the grade Challenges the rules