Discovering Gifted Potential Through the Lens of Positive Psychology

Traditional identification approaches have often excluded many students from underrepresented backgrounds from gifted and talented service programs. This study introduces an innovative identification method based on the Bull’s Eye Model for Affective Development – Expansion (BEM-e), which focuses on identifying giftedness and talents through targeted positive psychological traits. This method is integrated within an affective curriculum designed to create authentic learning environments that align with students' interests and strengths, fostering deeper engagement, motivation, and self-efficacy. Grounded in the positive psychology theory, the curriculum includes engaging, activity-oriented modules with comprehensive dynamic assessments. These assessments allow teachers to identify a broad range of talents and abilities, promoting equity and holistic identification process, which contributes to a more equitable and comprehensive education system