OPTC 1240: Low Vision Conditions & Devices
Department
Optician Diploma
School
Continuing Studies
Description
This course provides a comprehensive overview of age-related and specific diseases that cause low vision. Students learn the skills and techniques required to assess and support patients, read low vision prescriptions, and explore current products available to patients.
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
OPTC 1110, OPTC 1130.
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Explain what low vision is and the effects on patients
- Describe effects of age related and special diseases that contribute to vision loss
- Recognize signs and symptoms specific to reduced functional vision
- Assess a patient’s visual goals and functions through a visual history and assessment
- Engage patients in the decision making process to help them make informed choices to meet their goals
- Evaluate functional limitations of visual impairment to advise about suitable devices
- Educate patients on the use and care of low vision devices
- Create and implement an annual care plan to help patients maintain optimal functional vision
- Monitor for changes in vision resulting in the need to alter or replace devices
- Apply concepts in continuous learning to identify new technology or devices that may be beneficial to patients
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 40
Total Hours: 40
Instructional Strategies
Classroom based delivery with lecture, small group discussions, student presentations, readings, case studies, and assignments.
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Evaluation Plan
Type
|
Percentage
|
Assessment activity
|
Assignments
|
20
|
Weekly Review Questions
|
Assignments
|
10
|
Successful Workbook Completion
|
Assignments
|
20
|
Eye Disease Assignment and Presentation - written research and class presentation
|
Assignments
|
20
|
Case Study - individual case study based on low vision condition, assessment and recommendations
|
Quizzes/Tests
|
20
|
Quiz
|
Participation
|
10
|
Class participation based on rubric
|
Course topics
- Low vision overview
Types of impaired vision
Impact of low vision
Age related diseases
Diseases related to vision loss or blindness
Low vision assessments
Documenting patient history
Low vision devices
Proper use of devices
Visual field
Techniques to correct vision loss
Laser surgery related to vision loss
Amsler grid
Continuing care of low vision patients
Learning resources
Resources are items in addition to tuition that the student is responsible for purchasing. Course resource
information will be supplied by the department/instructor.
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/.
- To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.