How Gifted Students Learn Differently: Unique Traits and Lifelong Impact
As a former GT (Gifted and Talented) student, I can give you a firsthand glimpse into their unique learning process. Gifted students, from the young age of five, display exceptional insight and knowledge far beyond their years, and this talent doesn't wane as they age. However, the nature of their insights evolves, becoming more personal and less shared as they grow older.
Learning Speed and Focus
One of the most striking traits of gifted students is their ability to learn more quickly than their peers. A 5-year-old gifted child can astound with their depth of knowledge and insight. As they age, their focus shifts from material pursuits like fancy cars to more substantial goals, such as securing future job stability and realizing family objectives, rather than just following societal trends. They are acutely aware of the political climate of their children's era, and often, they are more concerned with the long-term changes in society than immediate, intellectual advancements.
Hyper-Focus and Broad Interest
Gifted individuals tend to exhibit either hyper-focus or an endless branching of interests. In academia, they are often either specialists or generalists, but this duality is not as prevalent in the real world. What is often surprising is how a gifted mind can rapidly memorize and apply complex information that might seem inaccessible to others. This unique skill makes them stand out in both academic and personal interactions.
Self-Diagnosing Weaknesses and Solving Problems
Gifted students are adept at identifying and understanding their learning difficulties, a trait that can be both a blessing and a curse. While this self-awareness is a significant advantage, it doesn't always translate into seeking help. They often feel overwhelmed by learning obstacles that others cannot readily perceive, leading to feelings of defeat and a sense of isolation. Despite these challenges, their drive to solve problems is relentless. If told about an issue in their field of interest, they will often forsake everyday comforts to find a solution, a characteristic that significantly impacts their lives.
Deep and Convincing Learning
The depth of their learning is evident in how they apply information from a single paragraph in their textbooks to real-world scenarios. For example, a child may suddenly understand complex carbon pollution pathways after learning about the ozone layer or recall the little ice age when told about climate extremes. This deep and convincing learning extends to other subjects as well, making them well-rounded and adaptable in various situations.
Conclusion: Lifelong Traits
The unique traits of gifted students, such as rapid learning, self-diagnosed weaknesses, and deep and convincing learning, are often present from around Stanine 9 to 1.7 standard deviations (SD) above the mean on intelligence tests. These traits can impact various aspects of a gifted person's life and are lifelong. The unique way in which they learn, often marked by hyper-focus or broad interests, is one of their key hallmark traits. Understanding and supporting these traits can help foster a more enriching educational experience for gifted students.