Definition of equity and equality. Although the terms ‘equity’ and ‘equality’ are inherently linked with each other, there are substantive discrepancies in the meanings of these concepts. Discussions on understanding the difference between these two terms were reflected on Sen’s (1982) work, where he posed the question “Equality yes, but of what?” to identify where frames of “equality” end and fair “inequality” emerges. Equality is typically defined as treating everyone the same and giving everyone access to the same opportunities. These principles are reflected in the Equal Educational Opportunities Act (1974), Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA, 1990) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA, 1990). The focus is to protection individuals from any form of segregation by tackling barriers to students' equal participation. The issue of equality of educational opportunities irrespective of a person’s religious beliefs, cultural background, and linguistic peculiarities is also highlighted in the Kazakhstani Law of Education and in the enrollment policy in schools for gifted students. By contrast, the term ‘equity’, which basically means ‘fairness’ is not given the same emphasis in educational contexts. According to Xxxxxxx (1987), this notion was firstly mentioned in the works of Xxxxxxxxx as a term that means rejecting the law to take actions against cases which are not indicated in ‘universal rules”. Meanwhile, Xxxxxxxx (2006) indicated that ‘equity’ as a separate concept appeared in the late 90s and in the beginning of the 21st century only. In a contemporary educational context, equity is basically dependent on two aspects. As reported by OECD (2008), it is comprised of fairness and inclusion. While fairness deals with affordability of educational opportunities with no personal and social barriers, inclusion advocates for provision of basic learning conditions and educational needs for all students. In the Kazakhstani context, the notion of equity is often times implied through the concept of equality. According to the Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan (1995), “citizens of the Republic regardless of their nationality, religion, membership in public associations, national origin, social or property status, occupation, or place of residence shall have equal rights and responsibilities”. However, the neglect of equity in the state policies may limit the access to some spheres of human life, including access to gifted education programs.
