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Analyzing National Talent Support Systems: The Case for a Resource-Oriented Approach

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  • Albert Ziegler

    (Department of Psychology, Educational Psychology and Research on Excellence, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany 2 Faculty of Media, Ansbach University of Applied Sciences, 91522 Ansbach, Germany)

  • Nick Naujoks-Schober

    (Faculty of Media, Ansbach University of Applied Sciences, 91522 Ansbach, Germany)

  • Wilma Vialle

    (School of Education, University of Wollongong, Wollongong 2522, Australia)

  • Heidrun Stoeger

    (Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany)

Abstract

Context plays a critical role in talent development, yet most national analyses continue to rely on individual-centered talent concepts. This paper highlights the limitations of traditional models for assessing how countries support talent and proposes a resource-oriented, systemic alternative. Building on the Educational and Learning Capital Approach (ELCA), this study argues that national talent development depends on the availability, accessibility, and orchestration of both endogenous and exogenous learning resources across systemic levels. By analyzing the clumping patterns of excellence in STEM, the arts, sports, and innovation, this paper illustrates the unequal global distribution of talent-supportive environments. Seven key principles for effective resource orchestration are outlined, offering a framework for evaluating and strengthening national talent ecosystems. The paper concludes that systematic assessment and strategic enhancement of national resource landscapes are critical for sustainable talent development and for ensuring that human potential can flourish more equitably across countries.

Suggested Citation

  • Albert Ziegler & Nick Naujoks-Schober & Wilma Vialle & Heidrun Stoeger, 2025. "Analyzing National Talent Support Systems: The Case for a Resource-Oriented Approach," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(13), pages 1-21, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:13:p:5896-:d:1688289
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    4. Vladimir Popov, 2009. "Why the West Became Rich before China and Why China Has Been Catching Up with the West since 1949: nother Explanation of the “Great Divergence” and “Great Convergence” Stories," Working Papers w0132, New Economic School (NES).
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