Obviously, developing and implementing a national needs assessment is a complex process. They are listed as separate categories, but they are also interdependent. These categories could serve as topics for your own district-level needs assessment. Even if your programs and services for gifted and talented students are relatively new or firmly established, it is helpful to take another look at what you are doing and what is being accomplished. If your district is considering new programs and services, these questions will guide your planning process.
Several studies address the suggested questions above and provide research-based guidelines.
Of course, we recognize the importance of connecting district needs, students' needs, and resources to create the best opportunities. Use comments and suggestions gathered through a needs assessment to make programmatic decisions and chart your next steps. Programs and services need to be studied periodically to ensure their relevance and effectiveness. Start asking questions, studying answers, and raising new questions. Teachers and administrators can provide an internal assessment of programming.