Gifted Soviet Children

Abstract

Provision for Soviet children of high ability, including the gifted, comprises five types of special schools and also facilities attended by the children in their own time. In ‘mass' schools too, enrichment is furnished by extracurricular clubs and intracurricular options, and occasionally there are special classes. Ability grouping within the ordinary class is legitimate but probably not widespread. Identification for special schools is effected by talent-scouting, referral, competitions and sometimes tests, but there seems to be little specific teacher-training. Special schooling, though well-established, is limited and somewhat controversial. In recent times, discussion has centred on distribution, selection and character education, but has become increasingly muted.