Evolution of the Definition of “Academically Gifted”

Abstract

Education is an experience that should be offered to everyone equally. However, the authors know that individuals who have severe disabilities and exceptionalities can be underrepresented in a school system. In this chapter, the authors will discuss how “academically gifted” students are defined and how these definitions have differed from state to state, and how the definition can be improved so future definitions may be more inclusive of traits that may disqualify some students from being identified as “academically gifted.” Concepts to be explored include the inclusion of standards, if those standards are too broad or narrow, and historical perspectives of “academically gifted” education.