Gifted and learning disabled students are a unique group of individuals who possess both exceptional abilities and learning challenges. These students, also known as “twice-exceptional” or “2e” students, often face a variety of obstacles in their education and may struggle to reach their full potential.
In this article, we will explore the characteristics of gifted and learning disabled students, the challenges they face, and strategies for supporting their academic success.
Understanding Gifted and Learning Disabled Students
What Does it Mean to be Gifted and Learning Disabled?
Gifted and learning disabled students are individuals who have been identified as having both exceptional abilities and learning disabilities. This means that they have a high level of intelligence and potential, but also have a specific learning disability that affects their academic performance.
Some common learning disabilities that may coexist with giftedness include dyslexia, dysgraphia, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These students may also have other exceptionalities, such as autism spectrum disorder or sensory processing disorder.
Characteristics of Gifted and Learning Disabled Students
Gifted and learning disabled students often exhibit a unique combination of characteristics that can make them stand out in the classroom. These may include:
- High levels of creativity and problem-solving skills
- Advanced vocabulary and verbal abilities
- Strong critical thinking and reasoning skills
- Difficulty with organization and time management
- Struggles with reading, writing, or math
- Impulsivity and difficulty with self-regulation
It is important to note that not all gifted and learning disabled students will exhibit the same characteristics. Each individual is unique and may have a different combination of strengths and challenges.
Challenges Faced by Gifted and Learning Disabled Students
Misdiagnosis and Under-Identification
One of the biggest challenges faced by gifted and learning disabled students is the possibility of being misdiagnosed or under-identified. Because these students often have a combination of strengths and challenges, it can be difficult for educators and professionals to accurately identify their needs.
Giftedness can mask learning disabilities, leading to a lack of support and accommodations for these students. On the other hand, learning disabilities can mask giftedness, leading to a lack of recognition for their exceptional abilities.
Boredom and Underachievement
Gifted and learning disabled students may also struggle with boredom and underachievement in the classroom. These students may become disengaged and uninterested in school if they are not challenged enough or if their learning needs are not being met.
This can lead to a cycle of underachievement, where the student’s potential is not being realized and they may not reach their full academic potential.
Social and Emotional Challenges
Gifted and learning disabled students may also face social and emotional challenges in the classroom. They may feel isolated and misunderstood by their peers, and may struggle to fit in with either the gifted or learning disabled groups.
These students may also experience anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem due to the challenges they face in their education. It is important for educators and parents to provide support and understanding for these students to help them navigate these challenges.
Strategies for Supporting Gifted and Learning Disabled Students
Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) are a common tool used to support students with learning disabilities. However, for gifted and learning disabled students, it is important to ensure that their IEPs also address their exceptional abilities.
This may include accommodations and modifications for their learning disabilities, as well as enrichment and acceleration opportunities for their giftedness. It is important for educators and parents to work together to create a comprehensive IEP that meets the needs of these students.
Differentiated Instruction
Differentiated instruction is a teaching approach that involves tailoring instruction to meet the individual needs of each student. For gifted and learning disabled students, this may mean providing different levels of challenge and support for different subjects or assignments.
For example, a student who excels in math but struggles with reading may benefit from advanced math assignments and accommodations for reading assignments. This allows the student to work at their own pace and level, while still being challenged and supported in their areas of strength and weakness.
Social and Emotional Support
Gifted and learning disabled students may also benefit from social and emotional support in the classroom. This can include opportunities for peer interaction and collaboration, as well as support from a school counselor or therapist.
Educators can also help by creating a positive and inclusive classroom environment where all students feel valued and understood. This can help to reduce feelings of isolation and promote a sense of belonging for these students.
Real-World Examples of Supporting Gifted and Learning Disabled Students
The Twice-Exceptional Program at the University of Connecticut
The University of Connecticut offers a program specifically designed for gifted and learning disabled students. This program provides academic support, social and emotional support, and a community of like-minded individuals for these students.
The program also offers specialized courses and workshops to help students develop skills such as time management, organization, and self-advocacy. This program is a great example of how schools can support the unique needs of gifted and learning disabled students.
The Bridges Academy in California
The Bridges Academy is a school in California that is dedicated to serving gifted and learning disabled students. The school offers a personalized curriculum that is tailored to each student’s individual needs and strengths.
The school also provides social and emotional support, as well as opportunities for students to engage in their areas of interest and passion. This school is a great example of how a specialized education can benefit gifted and learning disabled students.
Who is Responsible for Supporting Gifted and Learning Disabled Students?
Supporting gifted and learning disabled students is a team effort that involves educators, parents, and other professionals. It is important for all members of the team to work together to create a comprehensive plan that meets the needs of these students.
Educators play a crucial role in identifying and supporting gifted and learning disabled students in the classroom. They can provide accommodations and modifications, as well as differentiated instruction to meet the individual needs of these students.
Parents also play a vital role in supporting their child’s education. They can advocate for their child’s needs, work with educators to create a comprehensive plan, and provide support and understanding at home.
Conclusion
Gifted and learning disabled students are a unique group of individuals who possess both exceptional abilities and learning challenges. These students face a variety of obstacles in their education, but with the right support and strategies, they can reach their full potential.
By understanding the characteristics and challenges of gifted and learning disabled students, and implementing effective strategies for support, we can help these exceptional learners thrive in the classroom and beyond.
References
1. National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) – [https://www.nagc.org/](https://www.nagc.org/)
2. Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA) – [https://ldaamerica.org/](https://ldaamerica.org/)
3. Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) – [https://www.cec.sped.org/](https://www.cec.sped.org/)
4. American Psychological Association (APA) – [https://www.apa.org/](https://www.apa.org/)