Theses and Dissertations

Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Dissertation - NSU Access Only

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Department

Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice

Advisor

David Weintraub

Committee Member

Roslyn Doctorow

Committee Member

Kimberly Durham

Keywords

gifted education; minority students, English language learners

Abstract

This applied dissertation was designed to provide an exploration of teachers’ experiences regarding their role in the underrepresentation of minority students in gifted education. Examining educator beliefs will provide further insight into the gifted referral process of minority students. Gaining more insight into teachers’ lived experiences of their role in the underrepresentation of minority students in gifted programs impacts the future trajectory of numerous educational stakeholders. Awareness in this area of education continues to contribute to the increase of more equitable practices in the referral process for minorities in gifted programming. The outcome of this qualitative study will describe the varied lived experiences of teachers working with gifted minority students in Georgia.

A qualitative study was implemented using purposeful sampling to select six experienced teachers from diverse backgrounds in teaching. Each participant took part in a semi structured interview virtually. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed for recurring themes. An analysis of the data revealed that teachers require professional development in gifted education, along with equitable gifted referral procedures, to meet the needs of minority students. The findings suggest that improving services for gifted minority students hinges on ensuring equitable gifted referral procedures and providing teachers with ongoing professional development in the field.

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