featured publications

Keep an eye on Joan's publications. There are papers here and books which can be purchased online.

Educating the Very Able

This book is unique because it is based entirely on a critical review of the scientific evidence. The conclusions describe how this can be put into action in a direct way. Educators and psychologists can see clearly what has been found to work and what has not. Special attention is given to questions of acceleration, enrichment, creativity, classroom organisation and school policy. No single style of teaching, though, can cater for the needs of all gifted pupils: neither general enrichment nor simple grade-skipping are sufficient.

Individual development of gifted children, including emotional development, thinking skills, gender and social effects are investigated. Some myths are demolished. The education of the gifted must be concerned with the student's self-regulation, flexible thinking skills and competence. Using this guide the proportion of children we now call gifted could be increased.

Click here to read the whole book online, free of charge.

Reviews

"essential reading for any researcher or educator embarking in this field"
British Journal of Educational Psychology

"This slim volume is a delight...not just a book for the shelf, but one to inform practice"
Educating Able Children

"genuinely useful source book...clear jargon free language … makes one want to continue to the end"
Education Today

Gifted Children Grown Up

In 1974, Joan Freeman began her unique in-depth study of 210 children: the recognised gifted, the unrecognised gifted and their classmates as they grew up. This book describes what happened to them and their families, whether in poverty or wealth, through many types of schooling and very different life opportunities.

The young adults describe in their own words how it has been for them, and the author's interpretations are fascinating. Many myths about the long-term development of the gifted are are laid to rest.

There are valuable insights into their intimate feelings and situations, and suggestions for much needed changes in their care and education.These are not only important for their own fulfilment and happiness, but for the future of society.

Reviews

Joan Freeman us to be congratulated on a refreshing and original work which should be read by anyone who has the slightest interest in education, the psychology of abilities or even their fellow human beings.
Research Intelligence

The field of education for the gifted and talented would be radically improved with more research of this calibre...I strongly suggest putting it on your reading list. Roeper Review (USA)

Others may claim to have highlighted the needs of the most gifted school children but it is Joan Freeman who has put it on the map and kept it there.
The Independent

A highly enjoyable, readable, informative book, with a clear direct style, mercifully jargon-free and wholly unpretentious.
British Educational Research Association

A book to be valued and should be read by all parents and teachers who care about their children.
Perspective

How To Raise A Bright Child

This enlightening, inspiring and popular book is designed to help parents develop their children's natural talents.

Joan Freeman gives advice on how to create a stimulating and enjoyable home environment at little expense, how to get maximum benefit from the early years at school and how to encourage enthusiasm and motivation throughout life.

Review

The strength of her book is in straightforward practical advice. As a christening present this book will do far more to help a child than the traditional mug. The Guardian

Free publications