Gifted Education in Rural Schools: A National Assessment.

Overview & Synopsis

This report's introductory section notes that both rural and gifted education have received relatively little funding and national attention, and few studies have considered the two issues in tandem. As a first step in the process of strengthening the education of gifted rural students, this report assesses the current state of gifted rural education. Section 2 gives a brief history of rural education in America, noting that today's educational model is essentially a continuation of the common school movement of the mid-1800s, whose emphasis on standardized age and ability grouping resulted in consolidation efforts that are still ongoing. Section 3 recounts the history of gifted education; notes that it has continually been sabotaged by myths and stereotypes; and presents the latest two misconceptions, about the benefits of technology and higher standards. Section 4 reiterates the fact that there is little information of any depth regarding rural and gifted education and cites three recommendations for research into rural gifted education. Section 5 examines the variety of definitions of "rural," and the frustration this causes. Section 6 discusses the unique qualities of rural schools and their implications for gifted education. Sections 7 and 8 present survey results concerning school characteristics in the 20 most rural states, and gifted education practices and obstacles in rural schools. Section 9 proposes seven recommendations for providing effective programming for gifted rural students. Appendices present survey forms, related tables and figures, 71 resources, and 154 references. (TD)