Opticianry Theory I

Curriculum guideline

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Course
OPTI 1100
Discontinued
No
Course code
OPTI 1100
Descriptive
Opticianry Theory I
Department
Opticianry
Faculty
Science & Technology
Credits
5.00
Start date
End term
202320
PLAR
Yes
Semester length
15 weeks
Max class size
30
Contact hours
Lecture: 80 hrs/semester
Method(s) of instruction
Lecture
Learning activities
  • Lecture
  • Application/calculation exercises in classroom
  • Independent study
  • Field assignment
Course description
This course provides the introductory theory related to eyeglass dispensing. Topics include: basic mathematical calculations used in practice; optics, anatomy, physiology and pathology of the eye; instruments and tools used in practice; frames, lenses, analysis and interpretation of prescriptions; surgical refractive alternatives, and professional standards of practice.
Course content

Geometric Optics

  • 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

  • Terminology related to ocular anatomy and conditions of the eye
  • Anatomy of the eye using Gullstrand's Eye diagram
  • 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

  • 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

Communication and Interaction with Patients

  • Cultural safety and humility
  • Patient-provider relationships
  • Informed consent
  • Patient file documentation
  • Appropriate patient referral
Learning outcomes

Upon completion of this course the successful student will be able to:

  • perform the signed arithmetic, basic algebra, geometry and trigonometry necessary to evaluate optical formulas
  • discuss 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 sphero-cylinder transposition
  • discuss interpupillary distance measurement, frame selection and simple prescription analysis
  • discuss quality standards, effective patient communication and professionalism, and feature - benefit analysis
  • discuss regulations and legal requirements governing opticians
  • incorporate cultural safety and humility in opticianry practices
  • discuss the history and ongoing effects of colonization on the Indigenous Peoples of Canada, including disparities of power in patient-provider relationships
  • identify situations where informed consent may be problematic and take appropriate steps to ensure patient understanding
  • adhere to infection prevention and control measures established by jurisdiction and national regulatory bodies
  • document patient visits to allow for effective continuity of care

 

 

Means of assessment

Evaluation will be carried out in accordance with the Douglas College Evaluation Policy. The instructor will present a written course outline with specific evaluation criteria at the beginning of the semester. Evaluation will be based on the following:

  • Professionalism, preparedness, and attendance 0-5%
  • Assignments 10-20%
  • Term tests 45-60%
  • Final exam 25-30%
Textbook materials

Consult the Douglas College Bookstore for the latest required textbooks and materials. Example textbooks and materials may include:

Stein, Stein and Freeman, The Ophthalmic Assistant: A Text for Allied and Associated Ophthalmic Personnel, current edition, Elsevier

Corequisites

OPTI 1112

Which prerequisite

DOPT 1200, DOPT 1210, DOPT 1212