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
Means of Assessment
Assessment will be 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%
- Total 100%
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- perform the signed arithmetic, basic algebra, geometry and trigonometry necessary to evaluate optical formulas;
- state 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;
- define the propagation of light, dioptric measurements and surface powers;
- define spherical lens design, fundamental aspects of cylindrical lenses, sphero-cylindrical lens design;
- perform sphero-cylinder transposition;
- define interpupillary distance measurement, frame selection and simple prescription analysis;
- state quality standards, effective patient communication and professionalism, and feature-benefit analysis;
- define regulations and legal requirements governing opticians;
- incorporate cultural safety and humility in opticianry practices;
- state 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.
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