Paediatric Eye Care - Standalone module

Program Overview

The Paediatric Eye Care standalone module at Aston University enhances knowledge and clinical skills in paediatric optometry. It covers topics such as visual development, refractive error management, binocular vision assessment, and communication with children. Delivered via distance learning, the program equips participants to specialize in paediatric eye care and make a difference in the field.

Program Outline

This module can be taken independently or as part of the Optometry Flexible Framework, where participants can progress to the PgCert, PgDip, and MSc programs.

Objectives:

• Enhance knowledge and clinical skills in paediatric optometry
• Equip participants to see child patients regularly

Outline:

Content:

• Typical visual development in infancy
• Refractive error development and distribution throughout childhood
• Assessment and management of refractive error in children
• Myopia management strategies
• Tests and techniques to assess vision and binocular vision in children
• Management of common binocular vision anomalies
• Assessment and management of ocular health in infants and children
• Paediatric contact lenses
• Communication with children and parents
• Eye care in children with special educational needs and disabilities
• Dispensing in children
• Vision screening
• Safeguarding in children

Structure:

• Part-time/distance learning
• No placements
• 4 months duration
• Starts in March 2024

Assessment:

• A variety of assessment methods are used, including coursework, an online MCQ test, and individual assignments.
• Each assessment method is designed to evaluate different learning outcomes.

Teaching:

• Content is delivered via distance learning using Blackboard, Aston University's virtual learning environment.
• This platform provides access to study materials, scientific journals, e-journals, databases, and more.
• Participants engage in small group activities, tutorials, and independent study.
• Key staff include module lead Professor Nicola Logan and Dr Hannah Bartlett.

Careers:

• The program aims to equip participants with the skills and knowledge to make a real difference in the field of paediatric optometry.
• Participants can specialize in advanced optometric topics like paediatric eye care, potentially enabling them to widen and specialize their practice.

Other:

• The program is designed to be flexible and accessible to clinicians who see child patients regularly.

Application Deadline:

• The application deadline for the March 2024 intake is January 25, 2024.

Fees: