Some educational implications for spiritual giftedness.

Abstract

In an increasingly secular society, spirituality (rather than religion) is more pervasive than ever before yet the area seems to be amorphous and hotly contested. Even Gardner has declined to commit to spirituality (or more broadly, existentialism), as an intelligence. What therefore, does this mean for students who have heightened spiritual awareness and ability? How do we identify these students let alone, begin to enhance their spiritual development? This paper contrasts the claims surrounding spiritual giftedness including a comparison of moral, cognitive and theological dimensions. An analysis of what appears to be common to spiritual experiences provides a useful framework for examining this intriguing yet controversial area. Some implications for gifted students are suggested with examples drawn from classroom research.