In the first of four papers dealing with gifted and developmental potential in women and the disadvantaged, Alexinia Y. Baldwin describes a curriculum package entitled Ecology the Web of Life, designed for high potential students from low socioeconomic backgrounds. It is intended to develop higher level thought processes, features several methods of inquiry, and is multidisciplinary. Jean A. Morse discusses barriers (social pressures and restrictions) faced by gifted girls while growing up which depress manifestations of their potential, and subtle and direct barriers faced by gifted women. Covered are role expectations and opportunities, discriminatory employment practices, problems in choosing and pursuing a career, and suggestions for workers in the area of the gifted. Jack L. Fadely addresses the subject of whether professional women in education, especially at administrative, higher education, and supervisory levels, find their sex a barrier to advancement and equal opportunity. Examined are issues involved, current trends, and opportunities, based on a review of related studies and interviews. James L. McDuffie compares features necessary for special education programs, particularly for the gifted and retarded. Identified are key program features useful for program development and evaluation. (KW)