Research into the gifted pupils/students and their education in Yugoslavia

Abstract

The work is based on the analysis of more than 400 bibliographical entries, publications in Yugoslav languages in which the psycho-pedagogical problems of creativity and giftedness of children and the young are discussed. The analysis included the results of research, legislature, materials handed out on professional and scientific sessions and forms and contents of support the society provides for the gifted. On the bases of progressive increase in number, scope and reach of the research into the gifted, ranging from the problem of their identification to the problem of their education, as well as on the basis of the increase in schooling possibilities available to the gifted pupils and students (contests, awards, accelerations, extra work, clubs, research centers, specialized schools etc.) over the period from the seventies up to our days, the author is of opinion that the favorable climate for the development of the gifted individuals prevails. The latest passed laws in education, however, make way for any forms of schooling of the gifted pupils. On the other hand, school practice is still a long way away from the possibilities the law grants. Not much research is done to provide for the estimations on the functioning of certain forms of educational work with the gifted children, in school and out of school. The author concludes that urgent coordination of work of various institutions and organizations dealing with the gifted is necessary and so is the integration of certain actions of support the gifted receive, in order that the possibilities offered should be meaningfully used and have positive consequences.