Gifted students in regular classrooms have fewer opportunities to develop activities that are based on their characteristics as learners and address their needs; however, many of them spend most of their school time in these classrooms. The results presented here were part of a 2-year qualitative project that analyzed 12 Chilean gifted students’ lived experiences in regular classrooms by exploring the factors that foster and hinder their learning through the use of photos, focus groups, and interviews. The results showed students’ discontent with the national curriculum and teaching practices related to rigidity, lack of meaning, and unchallenging assessments. Nevertheless, positive experiences were reported related to teaching strategies, especially when they add novelty and move away from traditional approaches. Waiting experiences were common, but were often seen by students as opportunities for creative production. Methods for engaging gifted students in their learning are highlighted.

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Resumen La elección de carrera en estudiantes con alta capacidad (AC) no está exenta de dificultades. En STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) las mujeres con AC no eligen dichas áreas en la misma proporción que los hombres. Se buscó entender cómo los factores contextuales influyen en las decisiones académicas. Es un estudio cualitativo donde se realizaron ocho focus group de estudiantes con AC e intereses en STEM. Los resultados muestran a los padres como modelos; sin embargo, el mensaje paterno puede ser amenazante para las mujeres. Los profesores inspiran y entregan orientaciones claras basadas en las habilidades más que desde un desafío real. Las actividades escolares permiten una experiencia directa con la disciplina, pero producen poca vinculación con reales áreas de interés.