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Inferior Intelligences are Idenfitied
Binet and Simon developed a method for identifying students who were deemed as "intellectually inferior." This identification process became the basis for using an intelligence quotient to measure intellectual aptitude. It is especially important to note that standardized testing now aims to separate out the intellectually superior rather than inferior. However, it was a way of quantifying intelligence as a means of comparison with others. -
Lewis Terman publishes "Genetic Studies of Genius"
Gifted students were identified as having a variety of factors affect their learning. The most notable were that students saw greater success when the family emphasized education and intelligence and that other traits associated with gifted students vary widely amongst students. This is important for modern day education in our identification process of these learners. The definition should vary as widely as the traits that are seen amongst these students. -
Sputnik is launched by Russia
An international space race is spurred by Russia's launch of the first satellite into space. In order to "win the race," the US invest a lot of money and resources into identifying the best and brightest. To stay ahead in technology advances compared to other nations, we must continue to invest in the best and brightest. What was once the space race in the midst of the Cold War is still pressure to perform the highest in the world. -
Gerald Ford signs Public Law 94-142
Public Law 94-142 created a federal mandate to service students with varying disabilities. These special needs were only for those who qualify for special education services. Gifted students are not covered under this mandate. The implication for the present means that gifted programs are constantly fighting for funding and resources to meet the needs of a different spectrum of "special learners." -
NACG Publishes Pre-K-Grade 12 Gifted Program Standards
Providing a set of standards for gifted learners gives teachers a better guide to instructing students on self-awareness and problem solving strategies. The emphasis on learning inventories helps students to realize their potential and academic interests. It goes beyond telling teachers to "increase rigor" or "go faster." Instead it gives teacher, both in 1998 and after revision in 2010, the foundation to cultivate learners--not just to "teach." -
No Child Left Behind Act is signed into law
NCLB changed the emphasis of education to tested areas of focus. Though the definition of gifted was also revised to a more progressive definition than standardized tests, the outcomes of a school were primarily based on test scores. The law also includes grant funding for gifted education programs that fall within the new definition of gifted provided. The law appears to create conflict between a wider definition but a narrower academic focus.
