SENGinar: Blueprint for Understanding Persons With Giftedness and Autism Spectrum Disorder

Educators, clinicians, and parents who understand the complex affective needs of Gifted/Autism Spectrum Disorder persons profoundly affect change in themselves. This session provides stakeholders a blueprint for understanding the ASD culture, advocate for inclusivity, manage anxiety, and lead through strengths and abilities of this 2e population.

Traditional approaches in special education require adapting the environment and conforming the person to prevailing cultural norms. However, contemporary perspectives within the Autism Spectrum Disorder community redefine "normal" persons working with them as "neurotypical." Given the disenfranchised status of individuals identified as ASD (Cline & Hegeman, 2001) and distinct uniqueness of Gifted/ASD persons (Assouline et al., 2008), the challenge of constructing frameworks that support their dual diagnosis in multiple settings seems problematic (Gilberg, 2020). However, transforming attitudes and understanding of neurotypicals toward Gifted/ASD provides a blueprint of understanding. Presenters with expertise in Gifted Education, Autism Spectrum Disorder, twice-exceptionality, and K-12 teaching examine evidence-based practices, analyze case studies, and suggest organizational systems to support strength-based practices. Attendees gain awareness of resources and advocacy strategies.

About the Presenters:

Linda E. Collins, MEd, a gifted education teacher at Park Hill School District in Kansas City, MO, specializes in working with 2e students. Linda is a member of the SENG Editorial Board. A PhD candidate at the University of Kansas, her dissertation research addresses underrepresented populations of gifted students.

Dr. Connie Phelps directs the Gifted, Talented, and Creative Special Education program at Emporia State University as the inaugural Dr. King Endowed Professor. She conducts research through the Great Plains Center of Gifted Studies on social and emotional learning and innovative gifted programming at the state, national, and international levels.