The Impact of School Environment on Talent Development: A Retrospective View of Gifted British and Polish College Students

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine gifted British and Polish college students’ (N = 30) retrospective perceptions of their school environments in relation to talent development using a semi-structured, in-depth interview. Qualitative analyses revealed how school and teachers influenced gifted students’ talent development. Findings indicate that, according to both the British and the Polish students, teachers play an extremely important role in their talent development. The environment in English schools was depicted as considerably more facilitative than the Polish school environment, although both have their advantages and disadvantages. Although this research study does not claim universal representation, the findings may be of significance to school, educational, and psychological practices on preventive, teaching, and interpersonal levels.