Sports Science and Gifted Education: Similarities and Differences

Abstract

In this study, a systematic review was undertaken of the international research literature on the conceptualization, modeling, identification, development, and support of high ability and achievement in sports. For this purpose, four search criteria (i.e., relevance to high ability/achievement, an empirical study, a journal article published in a reputable outlet, and an English language publication) were applied to two databases—SPORTDiscus with Full Text (EBSCO) and Web of Science Core Collection. The 44 studies that met the search criteria were thematically analyzed. Thereafter, a comparison was made of key similarities and differences between the fields of sports science and gifted education in their approach to high ability/achievement, before a set of recommendations for future research and practice in gifted education were proposed (e.g., the adoption of holistic, dynamic and long-term focused models, broader and deeper approaches to identification, the establishment of optimal talent development environments, and technology-enhanced identification and support).