Fostering the Talents of Secondary Students Through the Lens of the Talent Development Megamodel

In this chapter we use the Talent Development MegaModel of Subotnik et al. (2011) as a framework for discussing services for gifted secondary students. Gifted secondary students are transitioning from the stage of acquiring fundamental skills, competencies, and knowledge to the stage of expertise that involves specialization and beginning identification as a scholar in a particular domain. Important roles for secondary educators include: helping students to recognize their talent and interest areas; providing opportunities within school for advanced learning and assistance identifying out-of-school programs matched to areas of interest and ability; actively cultivating psychosocial skills that support continued study and achievement; and facilitating access to mentors and professionals who can provide inside knowledge on educational and career paths and provide a more nuanced picture of professions.