Myopia - Standalone module

Program Overview

This online module from Aston University provides clinicians in optometry with advanced knowledge in managing myopia. It covers topics such as epidemiology, genetics, prevention, and treatment options. The program consists of 16 weeks of study, with assessments including short assignments and case records. Upon completion, participants can enhance their clinical practice and potentially specialize in myopia management.

Program Outline

Myopia - Standalone Module (Aston University)

Degree Overview:

Overview:

This online module on Myopia is designed for clinicians in the field of optometry who want to deepen their knowledge in managing patients with myopia.

Objectives:

• Enhance understanding of the nature of contemporary clinical research in myopia.
• Grasp the relevance of research to clinical practice in terms of the genesis, development, and putative methods of treatment of myopia.
• Build a solid academic foundation for Ophthalmic Doctorate students considering research projects in this field.

Description:

This program provides a contemporary account of relevant studies in epidemiology, physiology, biology, and opto-electronic measurement that shed new light on the psychophysiological and neurobiological nature of myopia. Modern genotyping methods have significantly informed the nature vs nurture debate concerning the onset and development of myopia.

Outline:

Topics Covered:

• Overview and Current Perspectives: Contemporary issues in myopia research; module content and structure outlined.
• Prevalence, Classification & Epidemiology: Optical, structural, and chronological taxonomy, syndromic myopia, ametropia and ocular/systemic pathology, global/European perspective of epidemiology, socio-economic and educational factors, current UK studies.
• Heredity & Genetics: Genetics of myopia, twin studies, nature vs nurture debate.
• Prediction & Progression: Factors affecting prediction, refractive progression from infancy to early adulthood.
• Emmetropization: The concept of emmetropization, human and non-human primate models.
• Structure & Function: 3-D structural correlates of myopia using Magnetic Resonance Imaging, retinal stretch and retinal function.
• Aetiological Foundations: Retinal blur and ocular growth, oculomotor factors, the role of peripheral image quality.
• Prevention: Optical management (progressive add/bifocal/single vision lens and contact lenses, peripheral refraction correction, corneal reshaping), pharmaceutical management (treatment of myopia using topical muscarinic antagonists), behavioral management (the role of outdoor activity, sustained nearwork and nutrition, aspects of Vision Training).

Structure:

• The program is delivered via distance learning.
• Learning materials and assessments are accessed through the virtual learning environment, Blackboard.
• You will access a comprehensive range of study materials, scientific journals, e-journals, databases, and more.
• The program consists of 16 weeks of study with a time commitment of up to 200 hours total.

Individual Modules:

• Each module focuses on a specific aspect of myopia, such as prevalence, genetics, or treatment options.
• Modules include lectures, readings, and assignments.
• You will also complete five case records to demonstrate your understanding of the material.

Assessment:

• Assessment consists of short assignments (50% of module mark) related to each lecture presentation.
• Five case records (50% of module mark) are also required.

Teaching:

• The program is delivered by staff at the forefront of life and health sciences teaching and research.
• The School of Optometry sits within the College of Health and Life Sciences.
• The program is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to make a real difference in your field.

Careers:

• This program allows you to develop specialist knowledge in advanced optometric topics, potentially widening and specializing your area of practice.

Other:

• The program fee for 2023/24 is £620 per 10 credits.
• The program is open to clinicians in the field of optometry.