Advocacy for Acceleration

Balanced research and practice

Meta analysis shows that acceleration is the most effective form to teach gifted children. Enrichment is more popular and can be effective, but sometimes it just keeps children busy. I did several studies on acceleration: questionnaires for schools (twice), for parents and for adults who remember their experiences; they were born between 1917 and 1987 and therefore span 70 years. Besides I did interviews with adolescents: how did they cope with older classmates? They often profited not only intellectually but emotionally when they were in group that was a better fit. There were few problems, if so, something unforeseen had happened or adults had made mistakes. My experience also shows that too many teachers in Germany still don’t know when to suggest acceleration and how to accompany the children on their way. Therefor acceleration needs advocacy. A synopsis of research will be presented and suggestions for advocacy will be made.