According to a presentation called "Those Who are Missed: A Conceptual Problem?" by Jean Peterson (2001), minority groups have different perceptions of giftedness than the majority population. Delineating these alternative views may help you identify gifted and talented minority students.

AFRICAN AMERICANS VALUE...

• Selfless contribution to the neighborhood.
• Handiwork-"making something out of nothing."
• Concern for family.
• Wisdom (in contrast to knowledge).
• The ability to inspire others to a higher level.

ASIAN IMMIGRANTS VALUE...

• Education and adaptation.
• Caring for family.
• Asceticism and hard work for the future.

LATINOS VALUE...

• Those who see art as a means of expression, not an "achievement."
• Humility over self-promotion.
• Community service, not through organized activities.
• Those who feel personal responsibility to help their extended family.

NATIVE AMERICANS VALUE...

• Not "standing out."
• Not putting themselves above anyone.
• Finding satisfaction in both cultures.

As you can see, these values are focused in a different direction that the values of the dominant culture. It is important to keep this in mind when identifying minority G/T students.