AAEGT's 2022 ONLINE Conference
Future Focus:
A Gifted Education Paradigm Shift
Breakout Speakers
Parallel Presentation Speakers - Friday
40 minute sessions, commencing 10am AEDT, Friday October 21st
Rosalind Walsh & Mark Boniface
Title
Implementing the Equity Placement Model in NSW Selective Education
Abstract
This presentation explores the equity placement of students from low-socio-educational backgrounds, Aboriginal students, gifted learners with disability, and students from rural and remote backgrounds in selective schools...
Biography
Rosalind is currently the DoE Educational Lead of the High Performing Students Program working on equity initiatives for selective high schools...
Mark is the Program Director for the High Preforming Students Program...
C. June Maker, Ph.D., Litt.D. & Robert H. Zimmerman, Ph.D
Title
A Needed Paradigm Shift: Assessing the Rich Associative Network of Knowledge Necessary for Creativity through Concept Mapping
Abstract
This session explores a project to increase diversity and identify future innovators in STEM using concept maps in life and physical science....
Biographies
C. June Maker, Professor Emerita, in the Department of Disability and Psychoeducational Studies, University of Arizona is an associate editor for 2 international journals...
Robert H. Zimmerman developed and implemented science education programs and assessments using problem-based learning for over 20 years...
Dr Susan Nikakis & Kathy Harrison
Title
Empowering Parents
Abstract
This presentation outlines how provision of support for parents evolved over three years in response to the Covid pandemic and need.....
Biography
Kathy leads the team that develops and presents VAGTC seminars, provides coaching and individual consultancy, focusing on theory into practice in gifted education...
Dr Nikakis has written and edited three books centred on the education of gifted students. She has delivered papers and keynote addresses at both international and national conferences...
40 minute sessions, commencing 10:40am AEDT, Friday October 21st
Bohdan Balla-Gow
Title
Leading High Potential and Gifted Education across NSW Public Schools
Abstract
Learn why over 98% of 20,000 surveyed NSW Public School principals, school leaders and teachers (2020-2022) agree that the the new approach to gifted education is part of core business for schools; not something additional or optional....
Biography
Bohdan is working across school performance directorates facilitating coordinated strategic planning, leadership capacity building and evaluative practices to embed and deepen HPGE Policy implementation across NSW Public Schools....
Carolyn Prince
Title
What's the point? Gifted perspectives on school learning experiences.
Abstract
This presentation explores issues contributing to underachievement in a small group of gifted adolescents...
Biography
Carolyn is a dynamic and passionate presenter who enjoys sharing learning opportunities with others...
Title
Advocating for the future of gifted students
Abstract
This presentation explores the most effective form of advocacy required to create a paradigm shift and to advocate for a positive future for gifted students. ....
Biography
Michele provides counselling and programs for gifted youth and their parents; professional development; project management; consultation; advocacy; research and resource development ...
40 minute sessions, commencing 11:20am AEDT, Friday October 21st
Alexander Fox, Bronwen Martin & Kathy Harrison
Title
The Victorian High Ability Program - A case study
Abstract
This presentation will focus on the design and implementation of a program which aims to cater for Victorian high ability students statewide...
Biography
Alex is acting Assistant Principal for the Victorian High Ability Program. He is currently focused on pedagogy for high ability learners...
Bronwen's plethora of experience contributes to her collaborative work to deliver the best possible learning experience and outcomes for gifted and high ability learners...
Kathy is a curriculum writer and teacher of VHAP Maths who designs professional learning for teachers, support and advocacy for gifted students and families....
C. June Maker, Ph.D., Litt.D., Myra Wearne & Susan Tickle
Title
Shifting from Gifted Education for the Few to Talent Development for the Many through Real Engagement in Active Problem Solving (REAPS)
Abstract
This session will present an evidence-based model for talent development enabling all students to develop creativity, critical thinking, cooperation, and communication. ...
Biographies
C. June Maker, Professor Emerita, in the Department of Disability and Psychoeducational Studies, University of Arizona is an associate editor for 2 international journals...
Susan Tickle is a school principal and an advocate for gifted and talented students....
Myra Wearne has engaged in multiple projects aimed at bridging the gap between educational theory and practice...
Garth Bolwell & Rosalind Walsh
Title
Supporting Gifted Learners with Disability to transition to selective high school
Abstract
This presentation outlines a pilot program that will involve all stakeholders in the evolution of a best practice model that aims to effectively transition GLD students...
Biographies
Garth is currently the Engagement Lead Advisor in the High Performing Students Program at the NSW Department of Education...
Rosalind is currently the DoE Educational Lead of the High Performing Students Program working on equity initiatives for selective high schools...
20 minute sessions, commencing 4:15pm AEDT, Friday October 21st
Jae Yup Jung, PhD
Title
The Australasian Journal of Gifted Education: Publishing in the Official Scholarly Publication of the AAEGT
Abstract
The editor of the Australasian Journal of Gifted Education will discuss the aims of the journal, its standing in the international field of gifted education, the types of articles it accepts, the review process, tips on getting published.....
Biography
Jae is the current editor of the Australasian Journal of Gifted Education, and a member of the Board of the Australian Association for the Education of the Gifted and Talented....
Felicity Donohue
Title
Raising the profile of gifted education in a school setting: a case study
Abstract
Felicity shares her insights on how to effectively plan for change across the school to have a shared vision of the importance of gifted education in a school context. ...
Biography
Felicity is an experienced school leader with expertise in senior leadership, curriculum leadership, assessment and reporting and gifted education.
Dr Rebecca D. Napier
Title
Family session: Developing healthy perfectionism with the gifted child for families
Abstract
This presentation explores why perfectionism can be an especially challenging issue for gifted children. Simple and positive strategies families can use to help support gifted children with perfectionism will be discussed. ...
Biography
Wellbeing of gifted individuals is a current passion area for Rebecca...
20 minute sessions, commencing 4:40pm AEDT, Friday October 21st
Dr Genevieve Thraves & Associate Professor Jennifer Charteris
Title
Paradigms, policy and perspectives in gifted education in Australasia.
Abstract
This presentation will report the findings of two studies that adopted a paradigmatic lens to explore gifted education in the Australasian region...
Biography
Geneveive is particularly interested in education for high-ability learners, and supporting teachers and schools to effectively cater for their gifted and talented students....
Jennifer’s work has informed curriculum and policy and has been used in professional development programs with teachers...
Rebecca Keough
Title
Digital Differentiation: Harnessing technology to bridge location barriers.
Abstract
This session will share practical ways that primary school educators can harness technology to create differentiated asynchronous learning environments ...
Biography
Rebecca has an interest in pedagogy and practice through an integrated learning lens incorporating technology to enable students to reach their potential...
Anna Fowler
Title
Twice-exceptional identification practices: An exploratory case study
Abstract
This exploratory case study into current early learning identification practices sought to identify both exceptions (giftedness and disabilities) for students
Biography
Anna's current research explores identification practices in the early years of schooling, exploring their potential to identify both exceptions in these unique learners...
20 minute sessions, commencing 5:05pm AEDT, Friday October 21st
Dr Gemma Scarparolo
Title
What do gifted students want their teachers to know? Implications for policy and practice
Abstract
This aim of this small qualitative study was to learn more about the experiences of intellectually gifted primary school age children in Western Australia...
Biography
Gemma is passionate about preparing pre-service teachers to be inclusive, responsive and empathetic teachers ...
Dr Rebecca D. Napier & Emeritus Professor R. John Halsey
Title
Complex Problems Abound: It’s Time to Harness the Power of Transformationally Gifted Girls’ Education.
Abstract
Courageous and innovative individuals are needed urgently to work on the complex problems and challenges of our modern world...
Biography
Wellbeing of gifted individuals is a current passion area for Rebecca...
John is an Emeritus Professor at Flinders University and has been a Fulbright Scholar...
Dr Michelle Ronksley-Pavia
Title
Addressing Ability in Dis/Ability: Case Studies of Strength-Based Approaches for Supporting Twice-Exceptional Learners
Abstract
This presentation will outline preliminary findings from a research project that explored how schools have been responding to the unique needs of twice-exceptional students in ways that draw on their abilities...
Biography
As an internationally recognised expert on disability and giftedness, Dr Ronksley-Pavia has published widely on a range of important topics including stigma and disability, bullying and disability, prevalence of twice-exceptionality and contemporary issues in initial teacher education...
Parallel Presentation Speakers - Saturday
20 minute sessions commencing 10am Saturday October 22nd
Kintara Phillips & Charlotte Ingram
Title
Asynchronous and accelerated; navigating the school system.
Abstract
Sharing the research and lived experience: a caase study for radical acceleration for a 2E student ...
Biography
Kintara teaches in the Masters of Teaching at two Victorian Universities, employing the butterfly effect by mentioning gifted learners frequently (even if it’s not in the course outline). ....
Charlotte is a 2e parent of a 2e child and has advocated tirelessly over the last decade for her child’s right to access an appropriate education ...
Jacqueline Hardman
Title
The influence of in-service professional learning on teacher attitudes in a gifted school in Tasmania
Abstract
This study examines the attitudes toward gifted education and gifted students of five primary school teachers who participated in professional learning (PL) with gifted students at a One Day School (ODS)...
Biography
Jacqueline Hardman is Learning Extension Coordinator at MacKillop Catholic College. She is concurrently researching gifted education with the UNSW Doctor of Education program...
𝗠𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗮 𝗚𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘆
Title
Professional Learning, ITE and Gifted in Australia
Abstract
How are the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers measuring up against outputs desired for effective gifted education? How do these align with the research in the field? ...
Biography
Melinda is president of the AAEGT and has been an invited and sessional presenter at a number of local, state, national and international conferences. She is currently in the Educational Leadership Doctoral program at Western Kentucky University...
20 / 40 minute sessions commencing 10:25am Saturday October 22nd
20 minute session commencing 10:50am Saturday October 22nd
40 minute sessions commencing 3pm Saturday October 22nd
Kylie Bice
Title
Embracing Acceleration: Why do schools continue to be frightened of this evidence-based practice?
Abstract
In order for schools to move into a future of highly effective and personalised education for gifted and talented students, there must be a shift away from a fear of acceleration to a paradigm of acceleration as an essential strategy in our tool kit...
Biography
Kylie has many years of experience working with gifted and talented students in government and non-government schools in Western Australia and is now an education consultant...
Michele Juratowitch
Title
Electronic Gaming: Is a paradigm shift required?
Abstract
Understanding the dynamics of electronic gaming, the impact of games on gifted students’ emotions, drives and behaviour patterns will help parents and teachers to engage youth in appropriate learning, while establishing and maintaining a healthy life balance that will benefit gifted youth in the future....
Biography
Michele provides counselling and programs for gifted youth and their parents; professional development; project management; consultation; advocacy; research and resource development ...
Jessica Potts, PhD
Title
Leveraging Technology to Foster Collaborative Communities for Gifted Students.
Abstract
This presentation will describe how Davidson Academy Online developed and later assessed this game-changing advisory program and will offer a blueprint for other schools to follow.....
Biography
Jessica Potts is the Curriculum Coordinator at Davidson Academy Online, a virtual school for profoundly gifted students...
40 minute sessions commencing 3:40pm Saturday October 22nd
Penina Kiss
Title
The Student is Gifted - Now What? Bridging the Gap Between Psychometric Reports and Classroom Practices
Abstract
This session aims to bridge the gap between psychometric reports and classroom practices for practitioners who teach high potential and gifted learners....
Biography
Penina has worked in a range of leadership roles in curriculum, teaching & learning and diverse learning. She has a passion for the identification of diverse gifted learners, teacher professional learning & more...
Cate Stilwell
Title
Moving from High Potential to High Achievement
Abstract
Using Françoys Gagné's adapted model of Differentiated Model of Giftedness this presentation explores the environmental catalysts that can be used to foster talent development...
Biography
Cate, during 2020 and 2021, worked as a writer with the High Potential and Gifted Education team...
Estee Stephenson
Title
In pursuit of excellence through diversity: implementing universal screening for high-ability students
Abstract
A K-12 school implemented universal screening to ensure excellence through diversity, using multiple measures to identify high potential and gifted students. ...
Biography
Estee's professional interests include differentiation for all learners and programs and provisions for Twice Exceptional students....
40 minute sessions commencing 4:20pm Saturday October 22nd
Kerstin Brausewetter
Title
Class clown or comedian, "know-it-all" or teaching talent - how can I find and develop (unusual) talents?
Abstract
Supposed weaknesses of students with different kinds of issues will be reinterpreted into strengths and examples for appropriate activities will be presented...
Biography
A trained high school teacher and college lecturer, Kerstin is active as coach, counsellor, author, keynote speaker and consultant ...
Julia Bailey
Title
A whole school approach towards provisioning for gifted learners
Abstract
This session explores the necessary aspects to ensuring that organisational structures actively support knowing, noticing and provisioning for gifted learners...
Biography
Julia leads professional learning for teachers, leaders and support staff using a change management model to shift thinking for some of our most at-risk learners...
Dr Geraldine Townend
Title
Reaching our marginalised gifted students - developing practice to support twice-exceptional students
Abstract
The aim of this presentation is to share some of the research about twice exceptional students: who they are, why they are often overlooked, and some examples of how we might support them...
Biography
Geraldine is a researcher and lecturer in the areas of gifted education, gifted learners with disability...
Pecha Kucha and Chat Journey - Saturday
40 minute sessions commencing 2:15pm Saturday October 22nd
Matthew Zakreski, PsyD
Title
Understanding “The Performance Cliff:” How to Manage it and Prevent it
Abstract
The Performance Cliff is a psycho-educational phenomenon that occurs in the gifted population whereas a student will be performing exceptionally well until ... they suddenly begin to struggle....
Biography
Matthew is a clinical psychologist who specializes in working with neurodiverse people ...
Dr Amanda J Harper
Title
Through the Dąbrowski lens: Exploring the relationship between OEs, transformational giftedness, and wisdom, with a view to embracing gifted diversity for a better world.
Abstract
This session explores the relationship between OEs, transformational giftedness, and wisdom, with a view to embracing gifted diversity for a better world...
Biography
Amanda's PhD focused on the development of empathy and Dąbrowski’s Theory of Positive Disintegration, for which she received the 2018 John Geake Outstanding Thesis Award...
Dr Maja Milatovic
Title
Future-focused pedagogies: Neurodiversity and Gifted Education in Australia
Abstract
Exploring neurodiversity's emphasis on inclusivity, social justice and challenging deficit-based approaches, discuss educational equity, neurodiversity and the role of lived experience ....
Biography
Maja is an interdisciplinary researcher and teacher passionate about gifted and inclusive education, neurodiversity and educational
psychology...
