Gifted Children with Handicapping Conditions: A New Frontier

Abstract

Interest has been growing in identification and appropriate education of gifted students with handicapping conditions. Because the focus in educating gifted and talented handicapped children has been on problems rather than abilities and potential, such children have often not had an opportunity to demonstrate their gifts. With the implementation of the 1975 Education for All Handicapped Children Act (P.L. 94–142), professionals in the fields of education for gifted students and for handicapped students have had more chances to exchange information. Accurate means of identifying and developing giftedness must be employed as well as strategies for overcoming handicaps in order to allow gifted/handicapped individuals to realize their full potential.