The Concept of Giftedness from an Aboriginal Cultural Perspective

Abstract

Aboriginal children are chronically under-represented in programs for gifted and talented children. Among the reasons suggested is an absence of an understanding of the concept of giftedness from an Aboriginal cultural perspective. It is proposed in this paper that such an understanding is necessary to provide a basis for the development of identification processes and programs appropriate for gifted Aboriginal children. The study reported in this paper demonstrated that the concept of giftedness is compatible with Aboriginal culture and that giftedness and talented performance are believed to be a consequence of individual ability, commitment, and fortuitous environmental factors. Research information is also reported which indicates domains and fields in which gifts and talents are most valued within Aboriginal culture. It is concluded that identification and provision constructs should be developed within cultural specific parameters.