One of the unique characteristics of gifted students is their ability to think multi-dimensionally, thrive on complexity, and evaluate situations from multiple perspectives. That’s what makes these learners so special! The way they think and see situations naturally lends itself to innovative and creative thinking. A multidisciplinary academic approach not only complements the needs of gifted learners, but it also provides a sense of knowing that allows for students to investigate relationships, trends, or patterns to synthesize learning in meaningful ways.
What does a multidisciplinary academic approach look like in the classroom? It means that although a student is enrolled in the course Bacteriology: Uncover Its Culture at SIG, they are not only learning about advancements in the field and engaging in various labs, but they are examining the economic impacts of disease and how it informs practice and innovation. Approaching our world through a critical examination of how our interests are interconnected can unlock a greater sense of creativity and innovation. The world is interconnected in so many ways--why not use a multidisciplinary academic approach to help student think globally and utilize divergent and convergent thinking skills to examine and solve problems!
So, why is a multidisciplinary approach beneficial for gifted and talented students?
1. It offers an academic framework that promotes depth and complexity.
In traditional educational settings, teaching and learning experiences are in response to a set of standards. This type of educational setting is unable to provide the rich academic experience gifted students need when their readiness is well beyond grade-level standards. When gifted learners thrive on complexity and seek to understand their world from multiple perspectives, it’s important that we not only nurture their ability to think outside the box, but to think across disciplines.
2. It inspires new academic risks within a safe learning space.
Another benefit the multidisciplinary approach offers is development in 21st Century skills such as life and career skills, innovation and learning, and information/media/technology. These experiences will nurture and cultivate necessary executive functioning skills to succeed in post-secondary paths.
3. It acknowledges multipotentiality and encourages exploration.
Often, gifted students experience multipotentiality where they want to explore several fields of study or career options and can rightfully excel in all. So, the question remains for the gifted learner-- What do I do? Or what direction can I take to maximize my gifts? All these questions are best understood through a multidisciplinary approach where they can test and explore topics in various fields and see what best connects to their passions.
It’s important for gifted learners to understand and explore their passions from various angles, disciplines, and position themselves within a global market. Their interests and passions are best nurtured when curriculum is intentionally delivered through a multidisciplinary approach. We cannot wait for SIG students to engage in this approach and thrive this summer with 2022 courses!
Want to learn more about the multidisciplinary approach?
We sat down with Caroline and one of our academic deans at SIG, Lynnea Johnson, and talked about how SIG courses are designed with gifted students in mind. After watching the webinar, you'll walk away with a better understanding of how our multidisciplinary courses combine reasoning with imagination to unlock academic freedom for gifted students. This is a great resource for families wanting to better understand SIG's academic approach and how it is uniquely able to meet student's needs.
Watch The Recording Here