Characteristics and Needs

Characteristics and Needs of High-Ability Learners

High-ability learners differ as much from each other as they do from the general population.  They will not necessarily exhibit all characteristics and many will be exhibited in varying degrees depending on the child.  Characteristics may also be specific to a certain domain such as math, language, or creative talent.  Understanding the characteristics and needs of high-ability students is important in developing programs and services to effectively meet their needs.

Common Characteristics of High Ability Learners

• have the ability to learn more rapidly than average students,
• display the ability to understand complex and abstract concepts,
• move ahead of age mates in basic skills,
• demonstrate advanced verbal ability,
• use advanced thinking skills, processing skills, and problem solving skills,
• demonstrate a focus or intensity in either interests and/or academic work (Karnes & Bean, 2005 based on research by Feldhusen (1989), Renzulli (1986), Clark (1988), and Reis 1989)

Common Attributes of High Ability Learners

• motivation
• communication skills
• well-developed memory
• insight
• imagination/creativity
• advanced ability to deal with symbol systems
• advanced interests
• problem-solving ability
• inquiry
• reasoning
• sense of humor  (Karnes & Bean, 2005 based on the research of Frasier and Passow (1994)

Needs:  See Powerpoint – Characteristics and Needs of High-Ability Learners

Karnes, F. A. & Bean, S.M., (2005). Methods and Materials for Teaching the Gifted. Waco, TX: Prufrock Press.