The Collaborative Role of Universities and Secondary Schools in the Development of Adolescent Gifted Learners

Abstract

This article explores higher education’s role in supporting gifted students and how these institutions might collaborate with high schools. Multidimensional roles that universities can play include helping gifted students transition from high school through individual support from faculty such as mentorships to offering specialized opportunities and courses within the traditional structures. Collaborations encompass providing advanced opportunities for advanced learners and placements in different types of programs such as dual enrollment, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and individual courses linked to a university program. Research findings suggest that students who had access to a variety of advanced opportunities had greater success in their chosen fields.