If you have a gifted child, you will be the subject of much envy at the school gates. But does this always matter? What other factors play into your child's success at school and beyond?
In 2019, Paul Curran wrote, “Giftedness is just a social construct; it doesn’t exist.” This provocative statement, found in his article on the British Psychological Society’s website, challenges the traditional obsession with high IQ as the sole marker of giftedness. Curran’s perspective pushes back against the narrow focus on cognitive testing, but it also introduces a false dichotomy, suggesting that one is either gifted (whatever form that takes) or not.
The reality is far more nuanced. The traditional definition of giftedness, often pursued by parents, revolves around a limited set of abstract skills like factual recall, analogical reasoning, and vocabulary. In the UK, these skills are frequently assessed through standardised tests such as the 7+, 11+, and 13+ exams, aiming to measure innate general intelligence. This form of intelligence has long been equated with learning, creativity, problem-solving, and decision-making.
There's much more to success than intelligence. Cognitive reflection, humility, open-mindedness, curiosity, emotional awareness and a growth mindset are equally important.
However, as David Robson points out, “general intelligence and academic education systems fail to protect us from various cognitive errors; smart people may be even more vulnerable to certain kinds of foolish thinking.” Robson’s insight underscores that being “smart” or “gifted” extends far beyond quick fact recall or a vast vocabulary. True success involves a broader spectrum of competencies, including cognitive reflection, intellectual humility, open-minded thinking, curiosity, refined emotional awareness, and a growth mindset.
This holistic philosophy is the cornerstone of 360+ Learning’s approach to education. While we recognize the immediate goals many parents and students have—whether passing an exam, gaining admission to a particular school, or acing specific interviews—our team aims to expand beyond these narrow confines. We focus on equipping our students with the skills to apply their intelligence meaningfully and effectively in the real world.
At 360+ Learning, we believe in nurturing the whole individual, fostering not only cognitive abilities but also essential non-cognitive skills. This comprehensive approach ensures our students are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of life, making informed decisions and contributing positively to society.
Curious to see how our innovative approach can transform your learning experience? Sign up for one of our courses today and embark on a journey beyond traditional education.
Join our courses and experience the difference with 360+ Learning.