EFFECTS OF ATTITUDES OF ACADEMICALLY TALENTED STUDENTS ON PERFORMANCE: AN ABILITY OR DISABILITY?

Academic performance is a function of many interrelated variables including inherent study efforts, modes of teaching school environment and family related factors. Academically talented students are often expected to perform and maintain high academic standards. However, students may sometimes be made under achievers. This study specifically assessed academic performance of the academically talented students their attitudes towards teachers and effects of attitude on their performance. The three variables were discriminated further on the basis of gender, school type and age. The main factor affecting talented student's performance was also determined. Results indicated that most of academically talented students had positive attitudes towards teachers, which significantly (P < 0.05) influenced their academic performance. It was revealed that gender, age and type of school had significant influence on the student's attitudes which ultimately influence their overall academic performance. Student's attitudes were found to be a function of 14 variables which were categorized into student - teacher relationships student's academic inputs, group discussion and student workload. It has now been revealed that academic performance is related to student's attitudes towards their teachers. It is recommended that schools should dedicate part of their investment on inculcating and fostering positive student attitudes through routine and regular legislation of guidance and counseling and providing an enabling environment for their academically talented students.