Management of Neural Disorders of Vision

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2012:

The time spent each week will vary according the tasks that are to be completed in a particular week. The following is a guide to an approximate breakdown: Reading (books, articles, on-line material) 4- 5 hrs/wk; Self Reflective Study, including integration of content into clinical practice 6 - 8 hrs/wk; Online Contribution 3 hrs/wk; Assignments and Assessment Preparation 2 - 3 hrs/wk. Estimated total time commitment of around 200 hrs/semester.

Expected level of knowledge is that of a 4-year Optometry qualification.

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For the purposes of considering requests for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Description, Subject Objectives, Generic Skills and Assessment Requirements for this entry.

The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison Unit website: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

This subject is to enable optometrists to extend their abilities to evaluate the sensory and motor pathways of the visual system, both in the context of evaluating visual complaints themselves as well as gaining further knowledge of how visual and ocular motor signs may reflect a range of systemic conditions, particularly of the central nervous system. Because complaints related to these pathways may reflect problems arising anywhere from the anterior visual pathways to the higher-order visual cortices, optometrists should benefit from gaining a deeper understanding of the current state of knowledge of these pathways and their assessment.

On completion of the subject enrolled optometrists will:

• have enhanced skills for assessment of sensory and motor aspects of the visual system;
• have expanded diagnostic ability with regard to identifying potential conditions requiring referral to appropriate specialists;
• have a broader ability to incorporate latest findings from neuro-ophthalmic literature into assessment and management of patients seen in optometric practice;
• further develop their ability to communicate with relevant medical specialists in the co-management of patients with appropriate conditions.

• Develop case studies relevant to both afferent and efferent pathways, using wiki format for cross-review among enrolled optometrists - 35% each case and 10% for contribution to discussion of other enrolled optometrist's case presentations, 80%
• Critical assessment of research articles using interactive, online format, 10%
• Appropriate contribution to the subject's online community, 10%

Hurdle: Enrolled optometrists will be required to obtain a passing grade in all assessment components.

Enrolled optometrists will be directed to primary research articles and review articles. Case studies will also be provided, both in print and online format.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

On completion of this subject the student should:

• have improved capacity to evaluate and synthesise a range of professional and scientific literature associated with the knowledge and skills in the area being studied;
• be able to articulate knowledge and understanding in a written presentation;
• have developed an understanding of the value of advanced knowledge and improved technology to both a professional and wider community;
• have an appreciation of the design, conduct, analysis and reporting of research;
• have developed a high level of analytic and problem solving skill;
• have developed a flexibility of approach to enable better response to a background of rapidly changing information;
• have confidence to broaden scope of knowledge by consulting professional and scientific literature from fields that overlap and enhance professional practice;
• have the confidence to call upon peers to discuss and confer when needed;
• have developed capacity to manage competing demands on time and enhanced capacity for self-directed work;
• have and understanding of the area being studied in an international context.