What Was Not Said and What to Do About It

The Woo et al. review (this issue) provides a foundation for considering the larger goals of higher education. We step back to consider the broader goals and ideals of higher education. Fundamentally, we want to admit a diverse set of students into graduate school and then produce the most accomplished scientists, artists, leaders, and innovators. In a world with inequality in preparation and finite resources, these ideals end up in tension without any easy resolution. The inability to provide opportunities and develop talent across all groups up to early adulthood is the fundamental problem we face. It is tempting to ignore it. We would be delighted if test and grade differences could be easily dismissed. Instead, we know that a great deal of potential is being wasted, and this waste represents a terrible loss for individuals, communities, and society. We believe that the greatest change will come from better and expanded investment in expanded gifted-and-talented programs, increasing the flow of underrepresented students into these programs, greatly improved assessment of psychosocial skills and talents at all levels, and career counseling and mentoring that begins early and continues through higher education.

Automated summary

The Woo et al. review sets a foundation for discussing the larger goals of higher education, emphasizing the need for diversity and achievement in producing accomplished individuals. However, the problem of unequal opportunities for all groups up to early adulthood remains a significant issue, resulting in wasted potential that affects individuals, communities, and society as a whole. To address this, the authors propose increased investment in gifted-and-talented programs, promoting diversity in program participation, improved assessment of psychosocial skills and talents, and early career counseling and mentoring.