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.