In a collaborative effort featuring a researcher Danju from Near East University, a study explores the attitudes of pre-school teachers in Palestine towards the education of gifted children. The primary aim is to shed light on the educational strategies and programs employed in nurturing the talents of these exceptional youngsters.
Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study utilizes an explanatory sequential design, commencing with quantitative data collection through the “Scale for Attitudes towards Gifted Education.” The sample encompasses 330 female pre-school teachers randomly selected from public schools. Subsequently, qualitative insights were gathered through semi-structured interviews involving 15 female pre-school teachers.
Quantitative findings reveal a positive overall attitude among teachers towards the education of gifted children. This aligns with qualitative data, showcasing a diverse array of educational strategies and programs implemented in Palestine for the benefit of these intellectually advanced youngsters.
The key conclusion drawn from the study is the high level of awareness and positive attitudes demonstrated by pre-school teachers regarding the education of gifted children. Notably, teachers with more experience tend to exhibit more positive attitudes, underscoring the role of experience in fostering creative achievements in gifted children.
The study emphasizes the reciprocal positive influence between teachers and gifted children when teachers are cognizant of the educational needs of the latter. Furthermore, it advocates for the creation of a specialized curriculum to enhance the skills of gifted children, a crucial step in meeting their unique educational needs.
Highlighting the commitment of the Palestinian Government to ensuring quality and inclusive education for all, the study underscores the importance of understanding the characteristics of gifted children. It calls for the implementation of appropriate educational practices, strategies, and programs to effectively address and nurture the potential of gifted children in pre-school settings.
In essence, the research not only provides valuable insights into the current landscape of gifted education in Palestine but also serves as a foundation for future educational initiatives aimed at maximizing the potential of these gifted young minds.
More Information:
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/17577438231209389
