Dispensing Optician Theory I

Overview

Course description

This course provides the introductory theory related to eyeglass dispensing. The following content areas are presented: basic mathematical calculations used in practice, optics, anatomy and physiology and conditions of the eye, instruments and tools used in practice, frames, lenses and analysis and interpretation of prescriptions, surgical alternatives, and professional standards of practice.

Course content

Geometric Optics I

Signed arithmetic, review of basic algebra, geometry and trigonometry necessary to evaluate optical formulas
Metric system of measurements
Proper use of a scientific calculator in optics
Review of right angle triangles
Theories of light - waves vs. particles
The electromagnetic spectrum
Deviation of light by different mediums - refractive index
Ophthalmic prisms
Snell's Law and other related optical formulae
Calculations for surface curvature and focal power
The refractive power of lenses and power crosses

Visual Optics I

Terminology related to ocular anatomy and conditions of the eye
Anatomy of the eye
Functional processes of the eye
Extraocular muscles, eyelids and tear film
Refractive errors
Refractive Surgery - basic concepts
Aging of the eye from youth to presbyopia - accommodation
Ocular pathology, conditions and abnormalities including strabismus, cataracts and glaucoma
Colour vision, tints and coatings

Practical Optics I

Terminology related to optical instruments and ophthalmic lenses
Equipment for dispensing eyeglasses including the lensometer, pupilometer, distometer, lens clock, ruler and thickness callipers
Measurements for eyeglass dispensing
Interpreting simple prescriptions
Transposing prescriptions
Tolerances for dispensing eyeglasses
Code of ethics and standards of practice
Orientation to COBC regulations
Responsibilities to the consumer

Learning activities

Lecture
Application/calculation exercises in classroom
Independent study of courseware
Independent completion of post tests
Completion of field assignments

Means of assessment

Course evaluation is consistent with Douglas College evaluation policy. An evaluation schedule is presented at the beginning of the course.

Learning outcomes

Upon completion the student will be able to:

Perform signed arithmetic, basic algebra, geometry and trigonometry necessary to evaluate optical formulas
Apply knowledge of the theory and application of ophthalmic lenses
Calculate lens powers, prism powers and magnification
Define ophthalmic terms relating to lenses and prisms
Define ophthalmic terms relating to anatomical and physiological functions of the eye and its associated structures
Define terms related to normal vision and common disorders of the visual system
Discuss the propagation of light, dioptric measurements and surface powers
Discuss spherical lens design, fundamental aspects of cylindrical lenses, sphero-cylindrical lens design
Perform toric transposition
Discuss PD measurement, frame selection and simple prescription analysis
Demonstrate an understanding of Quality Standards, effective patient communication and professional salesmanship
Discuss regulations governing opticians and legal requirements

Textbook materials

A list of required and optional textbooks and materials is provided for students at the beginning of each semester.

Requisites

Prerequisites

No prerequisite courses.

Corequisites

DOPT 1112

Equivalencies

No equivalent courses.

Course Guidelines

Course Guidelines for previous years are viewable by selecting the version desired. If you took this course and do not see a listing for the starting semester / year of the course, consider the previous version as the applicable version.

September 2013 (Current)