Toward an Iranian Conception of Giftedness

• In Event: Poster Session 7
  In Poster Session: Current Issues in Gifted Education and Creativity Research

Abstract

Using a grounded theory approach to the study of historical texts and an expert interview, this study investigates culturally embedded conceptions of giftedness as evidenced in the Iranian literary canon, The Gulistan, in order to guide the development of education and programming for gifted and talented students in Iran. Historically, The Gulistan has provided guidance to gifted and wise individuals regarding how to live life. Investigating these conceptions in The Gulistan’s stories gives us significant insight into what historically has counted as giftedness in the Iranian culture. Main themes arising from this study include: Saheb Ferasat, Shukhdideh, Dana & Aghel, Kheradmand, and Hakim. The framework and findings may be of interest to scholars, policy makers, and educators in various roles.

Authors

• Sareh Karami, Purdue University

• Mehdi Ghahremani, Purdue University

• Pamela Richardson, The University of British Columbia

• Lynn Bosetti, The University of British Columbia