Talent Development: A Turning Point in Social Change

Balanced research and practice

The aim of this paper is to provide an educational perspective on social change based on talent development in the ethnic linguistic diverse population of an Andean country. The current situation of the highly able youths living in vulnerable conditions in the Andean highlands and the Amazon forest will be explored. A comprehensive analysis involving a developmental, cross-cultural, and inclusive conceptual framework will be used. Results of ongoing studies about variables related to gifted performance will be included. Plus, the challenges of gifted education in Latin America, that underline the advocacy efforts to serve the indigenous population with equity will be presented. An example of best practices carried out in Peru, by the Ministry of Education, in order to empower and engage young scholars nationwide will be presented. Finally, implications for future research and public policies to serve talented students coming from original towns will be also considered.