Advance Research in Sciences
[ ISSN : 2837-5777 ]
Academic and Affective Effects of Enrichment Programs from Parents’ Perspective
1Assistant Professor of Elementary Education, College of Education and Social Sciences, Lewis University, USA
2Clinical Assistant Professor of Gifted, Creative and Talented Studies, College of Education, Purdue University, USA
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Abstract
High-ability students can feel academically unchallenged and emotionally isolated in the regular classroom. Enrichment programs offer an option where they can efficiently develop their cognitive and social abilities. In this study, the authors examined the effects of an enrichment program perceived by the parents (n=296). Parents’ open-ended responses from one university-based enrichment program survey (2013-2017) were analyzed qualitatively. Three major themes concerning academic needs (i.e., meeting academic needs; diverse activities and learning methods; and positive academic gains) and two concerning affective needs (i.e., interpersonal skills and interactions; and intrapersonal growth in students) were found. These themes reinforced current studies in the field showing the benefits of enrichment programs designed for students with gifts and talents.