Gifted women and teaching: A compatible choice?

This study questions whether feminism and educational interventions for gifted females have resulted in the devaluation of teaching as a career choice for gifted women. Based on life history interviews with 12 gifted female teacher educators, four key findings were revealed. All 12 respondents demonstrated resiliency and reflectiveness, the need for a creative outlet, a need for collaboration and community, and the desire to effect change. This study reveals, through the participants’ own words and experiences, how careers as educators have enabled them to apply these characteristics and fulfill these needs which are common to many gifted across cultures.