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).

Plain Language Summary

Sports science and gifted education: Similarities and differences

1. Purpose of the Study

This study looked at how sports science understands and supports people who have high potential or perform at a high level. We wanted to see if these ideas may help schools better support gifted students.

2. Background

Sports science and gifted education both focus on people who have high potential or high performance. However, these two fields do not usually work together. They also use different ways to understand and support high potential and high performance. By learning from sports science, schools may find better ways to help gifted students in the future.

3. Method

We searched for studies in sports science on high potential and high performance. Using two research databases, we found 44 useful journal articles written in English. We looked at the main ideas in these studies, and then compared how sports science and gifted education understand and support people with high potential or high performance.

4. Results and Conclusions

We found that the two fields are similar in some ways but different in others. We suggest creating new ways to understand giftedness that focus on the whole person and support growth over a long time. We also recommend improving how schools identify gifted students, create learning environments, and use technology.