Code Switching and Gifted Students

Abstract

Using examples of gifted students in specialized programs, the author discusses the phenomenon called “code switching.” Code switching is the name given to the process of alternating between one linguistic code and another. The author learned early on that most gifted students feel different from their nongifted peers, mostly about being more serious about learning, and develop social goals for themselves (standing out from others, blending in with others, disassociating from others). These goals guide their social coping strategies—behaviors to create a school environment that is relatively safe for them psychologically and potentially physically. The author concludes that code switching is an important skillset that can be taught and utilized effectively across a lifespan. The field of gifted education needs to support students with gifts and talents by more fully exploring code switching.