Navigating Autonomy and Strain: A Phenomenological Study of Mathematics Teachers of Gifted Students

Research highlights teacher autonomy as crucial for the intellectual growth of gifted students, as well as the inherent strains that accompany the fulfillment of such unique needs. Yet, the intersection of autonomy and strain in the education of the gifted remains underdeveloped. This study addresses this gap by exploring the lived experiences of six mathematics teachers through a phenomenological design, using semi-structured in-depth interviews. The study found five key areas where specific facets of autonomy and strain appeared in tandem: display of mathematical gifts, pedagogical adjustments, curricular attunements, gifted skill development, and capacity building efforts. Our findings suggest that these two phenomena coexist and form a symbiotic connection, potentially driving innovation, fostering professional growth, and enhancing the educational experience for gifted learners. We discuss that effective instruction for this distinct group of learners demands adeptly balancing the empowerment derived from autonomy with the strategic management of strains.