A PRACTICAL SYSTEM FOR IDENTIFYING GIFTED AND TALENTED STUDENTS

Research on creative and productive individuals has consistently shown that highly productive individuals are characterized by three interlo cking clusters of ability. These clusters consist of above average (th ough not necessarily superior) ability, task commitment, and creativit y. It is the interaction among the three clusters that research has sh own to be the necessary ingredient for creative productivity. This art icle outlines specific steps of an identification system that is desig ned to translate the three-ring conception of giftedness into a practi cal set of procedures for selecting students for special programs. Thi s system, with its flexibility, provides greater equity for districts that serve disadvantaged and culturally diverse populations. Special c onsideration to the vast array of obstacles that are traditionally ass ociated with selecting students for special programs are addressed.