Using History as A Mirror: Understanding the Covid-19 Pandemic’s Impact on Gifted Students

• In Event: Developing Psychosocial Skills

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the global educational landscape, presenting unique and significant challenges for gifted students. This study adopted a sequential mixed-methods approach to examine the educational impact of the pandemic on these students. Through the analysis of 1,354 SPOCQ surveys administered before, during, and after the pandemic, the study explored five key educational constructs using structural equation modeling (SEM). The results revealed that Appeal and Meaningfulness were temporarily affected during the pandemic but returned to pre-pandemic levels, while perceptions of Challenge, Choice, and Academic Self-Efficacy remained unaffected across time. Additionally, semi structured interviews provided further insights into the challenges and adaptations in gifted education during the pandemic and how they shaped students’ educational experiences.

Authors

• Fangfang Mo, Purdue University

• Yao Yang, Purdue University

• Yuxiao Zhang, Purdue University