Dr. Cara knew she wanted to teach at the age of 12. She taught her youngest brother and neighbor to read over a summer vacation, in a minivan, listening to “Hooked on Phonics” cassette tapes. With over 15 years teaching experience, Dr. Cara specializes in learning differences and supporting students performing below grade level. She believes teaching curriculum is great, but teaching students how to learn is the key to encouraging life-long learning.

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Dr. Cara is an Assistant Professor at SEA. She has over 19 years experience working with students having mild-to-moderate learning differences, such as specific learning disabilities and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).  Dr. Cara incorporates various evidence-based practices in her teaching, including game-based learning, Universal Design for Learning, differentiated instruction, and strategy implementation. Previously, Dr. Cara was employed by the Emirates College for Advanced Education in Abu Dhabi as an assistant professor and Program Coordinator for Special Education. Shehas presented research and workshops at numerous international conferences and was a Special Education Teacher in the United States. Dr. Cara founded Enlighten Lounge, a game-based learning center, in Abu Dhabi to spark a passion for life-long learning in today’s youth.