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Gifted Characteristics and Other Overused Empirically Empty Terms — Matthew C. Makel

Tuesday, May 21, 2024, 10:45 am – 12:15 pm, Lawrence D. McHugh Hall, Room MCHU 206

Countless characteristics lists describe common features of gifted children. If such lists are to be used to identify giftedness, then they must be grounded in empirical research findings. This presentation outlines limitations to current lists as well as the necessary and sufficient components needed for a list to be scientifically grounded. Without such grounding, these lists can exacerbate inequity and distrust in research. Calling something a characteristic is a privilege that must be empirically earned.