I saw differences... but there were lots of similarities in what I do in my classroom and what these elementary school students were doing. And yes, I did just compare my high school students with special needs to elementary school students who are gifted. Mostly because the elementary school gifted students are being instructed above their chronological level, so I saw things in the classes that I do with my students.
In any case, ALL of the teachers I had a chance to speak with stressed the importance of active learning, including playing games. Carol: You may have some people from the school looking for Survival Fluxx... ;) They were fascinated that students with mental retardation could create such a concept. :)
Magi