Soofrina embarked on her journey with the Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS) in early 2012, and her dedication and passion have propelled her into a dynamic role as the EdTech Coordinator for the English Language and Literacy (ELL) Division. As a Lead Educational Therapist responsible for teaching the Main Literacy Programme (MLP), she’s not only a mentor but also a visionary in the field of dyslexia education.
Working closely with learners facing dyslexia and other specific learning differences, Soofrina recognised the immense potential of educational technologies to revolutionise the learning experience. Her mantra, “As slow as we must but as fast as we can,” embodies her commitment to creating an inclusive, efficient, and accessible learning environment for all students. Her journey led her to explore classroom differentiation through innovative EdTech tools, a path she now passionately shares with her teaching colleagues, contributing to their professional development. Soofrina’s educational journey is marked by a remarkable blend of finance and special educational needs. Armed with a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and Finance, she charted a new course by pursuing post-graduate studies in Special Educational Needs. Her dedication and potential were recognized and nurtured by DAS, where she was sponsored to complete her Master of Arts in Instructional Design and Technology at the National Institute of Education (NIE) in 2021. Soofrina’s unwavering commitment to professional growth perfectly aligns with the ethos of DAS, where challenges are not limitations but opportunities to push boundaries. The collaborative culture, team spirit, and recognition of talent at DAS have provided her with the canvas to delve deeper into her areas of passion.
In the words of Bruce Wayne (fictional character), “It is not who I am underneath but what I do that defines me.” Soofrina’s actions, dedication, and tireless efforts define her as a true advocate for inclusive education and a driving force in the world of EdTech and dyslexia support. Her journey continues to inspire and empower those she touches, creating a brighter future for learners with dyslexia and beyond.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Google Certified Educator (Level 2)
- Master of Arts (Instructional Design and Technology)
CONFERENCES
- International Dyslexia Association Conference 2019 – Oregon, Poster Presentation
- Singapore Learning Design and Technology Conference 2019, Presenter
- UNITE SpLD Conference 2019, Presenter
- ARWA 2019 Conference, Presenter
- International Dyslexia Association Conference 2018 – Connecticut, Poster Presentation
- UNITE SpLD 2018 Conference, Presenter
- British Dyslexia Association Conference 2018, Presenter
- EduTech Asia Conference 2018, Panelist and Presenter
- The Singapore Educational Technology Conference 2017, Oral Presentation – A Digital Journey Of A Thousand Miles Begins With a Single Click
- EduTech Asia Conference 2017, Oral Presentation – Improving Literacy with EdTech
- EduTech Asia Conference 2017, Panellist – Overcoming Challenges in the Push for EduTech
“My drive for professional development resonates with the work culture of the DAS; that is to not limit my challenges but to challenge my limits. The exposure, teamwork and professional recognition of talents at DAS allows me to delve deeper into the areas I am passionate about.”
PUBLICATIONS
- Asia Pacific Journal of Developmental Differences (APJDD) Vol 4 No 2 July 2017
- Attitudes Towards New Technology In Teaching Dyslexics in Singapore: The Case of the Mimio Teach Smart Bars
Bruce Wayne, “It is not who I am underneath but what I do that defines me.”