What exactly are the characteristics of honors pedagogy? What are the
teaching strategies that are particularly relevant and successful for
academically gifted and motivated students? In spite of the substantial
body of literature about the practice of honors education, largely
referring to the United States, very little systematic and empirical
research has been done about honors pedagogy. This study contributes to
a better understanding of honors pedagogies, focusing not just on what
might distinguish honors teaching and learning from standard
expectations and methodologies but also on how honors pedagogy offers
both instructors and students an opportunity to fundamentally rethink
their philosophy of education. The present study points out the similar
and different approaches and dispositions in American and Dutch honors
teaching. Cultural differences, distinctive educational systems, and
diverse priorities play a role in defining both the shared and unique
perspectives on honors education in both countries. Therefore, a
baseline comparison is made between American and Dutch honors teachers
with respect to their teaching strategies.