TWICE-EXCEPTIONAL AND TALENTED STUDENTS – CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES / DVOJNO IZJEMNI NADARJENI IN TALENTIRANI UČENCI – IZZIVI IN PRILOŽNOSTI

Paper

The paper addresses the topic of twice-exceptional students – individuals who have exceptional gifts or talents but simultaneously face obstacles, disorders, or deficits. These students require tailored educational support often lacking in the existing educational system, which potentially leads to frustration and failure instead of the development of their potential. Identifying twice-exceptional students is challenging, as their specific needs often obscure their talents or vice versa. Various authors have found that barriers to identifying twice-exceptional students can include delayed development, stereotypical expectations, lack of encouragement, and specific characteristics of the disorder. Identification requires the collaboration of parents, teachers, and specialists, and a consideration of both the student’s weaknesses and strengths. In Slovenia, about 5% of students with special needs are twice-exceptional, and working with them presents a particular challenge. To ensure optimal progress for each individual, it is necessary to prepare an individualized education program that addresses the student’s deficits and talents. Continuous teacher training and the exchange of best practices are crucial, as highlighted by interviews with young teachers who report being only partially familiar with the concept of twice-exceptionality and encountering challenges such as lack of information, support, and guidance. All data indicate that a systematic approach to identifying and supporting twice-exceptional students is essential for their comprehensive development.