The efficacy on the G.A.T.E. initiative in enhancing the creativity, psychological and social competency of gifted students in the public schools of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The focal aim of this quantitative descriptive survey study was geared towards identifying the most salient psychological and social problems suffered by the gifted students in Saudi Arabia schools in the Taif and Baha region from the viewpoint of teachers and supervisors. The study was also aimed at ascertaining if the gifted centers established meet the student`s social needs and also to investigate if there are any statistical significant differences between teachers and supervisors depending on their region educational qualification and years of service. Data collection was elicited by the use of questionnaires comprised of 56 items, while data analysis was done using the SPSS software version 20 with test T and ANOV A. The total participants of the study are 301. The result fmdings indicated that majority of the teachers and supervisors agreed that the gifted students suffer from some psychological and social problems which may be the cause of curbing their talents or a reduction in their creative ability. Also, majority of the respondents are of the opinion that the gifted students programs offered are very good, and that the centers are equipped with all the activities and possibilities that can help enhance gifted student creativity and at the same time improve their capabilities on psychological and social adjustment. Findings from this study also depicts that more attention must be given to gifted students programs by organizing intensive courses for them in order for the teachers and supervisors to be able to better understand the needs of gifted students psychologically and socially. The study also found that there are no statistical significant differences between the school district variables, function and years of experience and academic qualification.