Featured RETA Members
Oct – Dec25: Tuty Elfira
Tuty Elfira Abdul Razak
Fellow
Tuty’s journey with DAS began in 2010, and since then, she has played a crucial role as the Programme Manager for the Prep 2 PSLE Programme. This programme is specifically designed to support learners with dyslexia in effectively applying their knowledge during English examinations. Tuty’s responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks, including overseeing curriculum development, providing teacher training, and evaluating classroom practices. In addition to her role at DAS, Tuty has also been a proud Fellow of the Register of Educational Therapists, Asia (RETA) since 2016. This prestigious membership allows her to constantly expand her knowledge and gain valuable insights by engaging with other experts and scholars in the field. Moreover, being a part of RETA opens up networking opportunities with esteemed professionals in the region and beyond.
Why did you choose to work in the field of SpLD?
My interest in Specific Learning Differences (SpLD) was sparked during my undergraduate years, over 15 years ago, while I was engaged in relief teaching at MOE schools. It was during this time that I observed firsthand the struggles faced by students in Primary 1 and 2 with ADHD and ASD in integrating into mainstream classrooms. This was a period when awareness about SpLD was relatively low, and teachers lacked the training necessary to address the unique challenges associated with teaching these children. Motivated by what I witnessed, I did my own mini research to educate myself about the various types of learning needs. Through this exploration, I came to understand that learners with SpLD require different teaching methods and instructions, as their ways of learning and processing information are distinct from their peers. Working with learners with SpLD is both meaningful and rewarding. This role offers me the unique opportunity to design interventions tailored to the individual needs of each learner. Witnessing their progress and growth firsthand is incredibly fulfilling. More importantly, accompanying them on their journey of development and overcoming challenges together is an experience that profoundly enriches my professional and personal life.
What is one thing that never fails to make you smile in the work that you do?
It is always a pleasant surprise when students recall the lessons and advice I have shared, especially when I least expect them to remember.
What do you think is the most important quality/value/belief a person must have when working in the field of Special Education?
Resilience. The path to addressing the needs of individuals with SpLD is not paved with perfect interventions or flawless methods. It involves a process of trial and error, where some strategies succeed and others fall short. Progress is often accompanied by moments of regression or setbacks. Therefore, embodying resilience means being prepared to adapt and modify plans as needed when some approaches prove ineffective.
What is the one thing you would do to improve special education in your country?
Keep the conversation going, become an advocate among friends, family and on social media platforms.
What motivated you to become a RETA member and how has it benefitted you?
Being a RETA member allows me to gain valuable insights by listening to other experts and scholars in the field. It also offers me networking opportunities with experts in the region and beyond.
What advice would you give someone who has special educational needs or lives/works with people with special educational needs?
Empathy begins with understanding. If someone close to you has special needs, take the time to learn about their unique challenges and experiences. Offer support in a way that respects their autonomy and dignity, without imposing. Engage in open discussions about how you can be helpful, or simply let them know that you’re available whenever they may need assistance.