Causes and Consequences of Labelling Gifted Pupils at Selected Elementary Schools

The article describes qualitative research analyzing causes and consequences of labelling gifted pupils. Causes and consequences were identified after an analysis of semi-structured interviews with gifted pupils, their classmates and teachers. Identified causes included certain pedagogical strategies such as excluding a gifted pupil from a group of their peers, using specific names for classes, excessive media coverage of specialized classes and pupils. Labelling was further promoted by a curriculum differing in its content, processes and materials offered to gifted pupils only. Consequences of labelling included ostracism and ridiculing of gifted pupils by their classmates, rivalry and hostility. The article concludes with proposals which might help to reduce labelling.