Gifted science education in Turkey: Gifted teachers' selection, perspectives and needs

The purpose of this study was to explore the fundamental problems that Turkish gifted science teachers encounter in the process of teaching gifted students. Three Science Art Centers (SACs) were visited and, semi structured interviews were conducted with all science teachers, (total fourteen). SACs are specifically for the education of gifted students in Turkey. It was found that on the whole, gifted science teachers perceive what their duties are. However there is a need for help with measurement and assessment techniques, updates on modern learning theories, the planning and implementation of research projects, questioning techniques and the use of laboratory approaches. It is suggested that in-service courses, which include the above topics, should be organized for the gifted science teachers, and the use of action research projects should be encouraged.