The Level of Professional Practice of the Social Worker in Caring for Gifted Students within Basic Education Institutions: A Field Study in Tajoura Municipality – Libya

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the level of professional practice of social workers in caring for gifted students within basic education institutions in the Municipality of Tajoura – Libya, from the perspective of social workers themselves. The study adopted a descriptive-analytical approach and relied on a questionnaire as the main data collection tool. The results revealed that the level of professional practice is considered moderate, with a weighted average of (2.21) and a relative weight of (73%), supported by a statistically significant result (T = 3.721, α = 0.05). Findings also indicated that social workers play several positive roles in the field of gifted education, including: fostering a spirit of competition (81%), helping students overcome shyness (80%), identifying students' talents and encouraging school participation (79%), providing opportunities to express creative abilities (78%), organizing programs to develop these abilities and encouraging self-expression (76%), and assisting students in facing challenges while maintaining regular communication with them (75%). Based on these results, the study recommends strengthening the professional role of social workers in educational institutions by providing them with specialized training programs and adequate human and material resources to perform their duties effectively. The study also emphasizes the importance of collaboration between families, schools, and local community institutions in supporting gifted students, discovering their talents, and nurturing their development.