An Analysis of Selected Descriptive and Experimental Studies on Program Model Designs for Gifted Students for Potential use in Rural School Districts of Developing Countries

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyse program model designs for gifted children and youth currently in use in the United States. From a meta-analysis of 100 descriptive and experimental studies conducted in the last 10 years trends and practices currently used in the United States were identified. Ten features of program design which included name and description: identification of students: funding: staffing: grades: ages and number of students: scheduling: delivery of services: role of parents: community and technology were examined. Further recommendations were derived for the implementation of similar programs and training of teachers for the gifted in developing countries specifically the provinces of Ciskei and Transkei, South Africa. Focus is provided on aspects of gifted programs in rural areas of the United States for those recommendations as the characteristics are more representative of those in developing countries.