Invictus Minds: A Critical Heuristic Case Study of Giftedness in African American Males

• In Event: 30.078 - Perspectives and Issues for Diverse Students in Urban Schools

Abstract

The purpose of this critical, heuristic case study was to explore the phenomenon of
giftedness as experienced by African American males through the exploration and analysis of
their schooling experiences while also raising their level of awareness about what it means to
be a gifted African American male. Data sources included: (1) participant autobiographies; (2) official documents; (3) semi structured interviews; (4) theoretical focus group interviews; and (5) participant observations. Findings suggested many of their experiences were rooted in the elementary experience; however, all of them felt that they would have been more successful if program structures were in place through the K-12 schooling experience. Provide educators an understanding of how giftedness is experienced in public school settings.

Authors

• Jermaine Arnell Wilson, Kansas City Public Schools

• Loyce E. Caruthers, The University of Missouri-Kansas City