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MSci. Optometry Programme Handbook BSc

Hons Ophthalmic Dispensing

2020/2021

Marie-Laure Orr and Peter Black

School of Medicine

Please read this Handbook in conjunction with the University’s Student Handbook.

All Programme materials, lecture notes and other additional information related to your

Programme whether electronically or in hard copy, is the property of (and licensed to) UCLan.

It MUST not be distributed, sold, published, made available to others or copied other than for

your personal study use, unless you have gained written permission from the Dean of School.

This applies to the materials in their entirety and to any part thereof.

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Contents

1. Welcome to the Programme ....................................................................................................................................... 3

1.1 Rationale, aims and learning outcomes of the Programme .................................................................................. 3

1.2 Programme Team .................................................................................................................................................. 8

1.3 Expertise of staff .................................................................................................................................................. 10

1.4 Academic Advisor ................................................................................................................................................ 10

1.5 Administration details.......................................................................................................................................... 10

1.6 Communication.................................................................................................................................................... 11

1.7 External Examiner ................................................................................................................................................ 12

2.1 Overall structure .................................................................................................................................................. 12

2.2 Modules available ................................................................................................................................................ 13

2.3 Programme requirements ................................................................................................................................... 15

2.4 Module Registration Options ............................................................................................................................... 17

2.5 Study Time ........................................................................................................................................................... 18

2.5.1 Weekly timetable ................................................................................................................................... 18

2.5.2 Expected hours of study ......................................................................................................................... 18

2.5.3 Attendance Requirements ..................................................................................................................... 19

3. Approaches to teaching and learning ........................................................................................................................ 21

3.1 Learning and teaching methods .......................................................................................................................... 21

3.2 Study skills............................................................................................................................................................ 23

3.3 Learning resources ............................................................................................................................................... 24

3.3.1 Learning Information Services (LIS) .............................................................................................................. 24

3.3.2 Electronic Resources ..................................................................................................................................... 24

3.4 Personal development planning .......................................................................................................................... 24

3.5 Preparing for your career .................................................................................................................................... 24

4. Student Support......................................................................................................................................................... 25

4.1 Academic Advisor ................................................................................................................................................ 26

4.2 Students with disabilities ..................................................................................................................................... 27

5. Assessment ................................................................................................................................................................ 28

5.1 Assessment Strategy ............................................................................................................................................ 28

5.2 Notification of assignments and examination arrangements ................................................................................. 28

5.3 Referencing .......................................................................................................................................................... 29

5.4 Confidential material ........................................................................................................................................... 29

5.4 Cheating, Plagiarism, Collusion or Re-presentation ............................................................................................ 30

6. Classification of Awards ............................................................................................................................................. 30

7. Student Feedback ...................................................................................................................................................... 30

7.1 Student Staff Liaison Committee Meetings (SSLCs) ................................................................................................. 30

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1. Welcome to the Programme

Welcome to the School of Medicine and to the MSci. in Optometry programme.

The School is part of the Faculty of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences at UCLan. It opens its doors to

undergraduate vision science students for the first time in 2019. In addition to the School of Medicine,

there is also a School of Dentistry and a School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences. The division of

Vision Science is made up of academic and clinical professionals, technical, optometric and dispensing

staff members. The staffing is overseen by the requirements of the General Optical Council (GOC).

Research staff and support staff of the faculty are all dedicated in contributing to teaching across many

of our Programme segments. The School of Medicine has state of the art teaching facilities and

provides the necessary infrastructure for a modern work-based learning pathway. Vision Science is

currently interwoven in the same building as the successfully developed School of Medicine and School

of Dentistry. Our experience is that the excellent existing resources are shared both with this facility

and with other health care science programmes located at the university.

We are liaising with strong links to clinical centres in East Lancashire and the Bridgewater Community

Trust, both of whom have long experience in providing educational experience to both medical and

dental students. We have forged links with local charities that support people with visual impairment,

patient representative groups, manufacturers, employers and local optical committees throughout the

wider region.

It is our aim for you to enjoy your studies within the School and that you have a positive and productive

learning experience to enhance your career. There will be hard work ahead, that you will find

interesting and challenging; we hope you will have the chance to enjoy yourself along the way. Good

luck!

Professor Cathy Jackson

Head of School

And the Vision Sciences Team

1.1 Rationale, aims and learning outcomes of the Programme

The University is continually developing its medical and postgraduate programmes and the MSci.

Optometry programme underpins and complements this development.

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The MSci. Optometry award is a 5 year full-time blended learning programme which has been

developed to comply with the General Optical Council, The Association of British Dispensing Opticians

(ABDO) and College of Optometrists requirements (COO) http://www.GOC.co.uk,

https://www.abdo.org.uk/, https://www.college-optometrists.org/. It’s aims, content and learning

outcomes are mapped to meet the requirements described in the QAA Subject Benchmark, Optometry

2015 and the General Optical Council Core Competencies for Ophthalmic Dispensing and Optometry,

2015 and 2011 The first six semesters (three modules) will map against the requirements of the

Association of British Dispensing Opticians’ scheme for registration to register with the GOC as a

Dispensing Optician.

The MSci. Optometry curriculum has been developed by adopting a blended learning approach; this is

traditionally associated with other ophthalmic dispensing programmes where online distance learning

is supplemented by week-long blocks of attendance at UCLan. Work-based learning offers the

opportunity to embed the knowledge acquired into real world skills. It uses a spiral mode of delivering

concepts; basic levels are formed and later revisited in greater depth and with more clinical focus each

time. This "spiral curriculum" is used by many medical schools. It reinforces the need for lifelong

learning in medical practice with a need to constantly update knowledge and skills to provide the best

possible outcome for their future patients.

The programme places considerable emphasis on developing your expertise in a whole range

of practical areas, including ophthalmic dispensing, standards of practice, communication,

refraction, observation, management of vision and eye abnormalities, teamwork and

leadership. Both programmes have provisional approval from the GOC. This means that we

will have regular visits from the GOC to check on how the programmes are progressing; you

may be asked to attend meetings with the GOC visitor panels to discuss your experiences. The

full approval is given once the first cohort for each programme graduates. Whilst under

provisional approval, students recruited on to the programme are not guaranteed entry to the

GOC Register and may be required to undertake additional assessments through an alternative

GOC approved education provider in the event that any aspect of the programme when

delivered does not satisfy the GOC standards.

In line with all UCLan degree courses, the structure of the programme is modular. This is an intensive five-year programme comprised of six modules over 12 semesters along with the pre-reg period:

List of modules and credit weighting

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Module code

Level Module Name Module credits

Exit award on completion of module

OP1001 Level 4 Introduction to ophthalmic

dispensing and optometric

practice

120 credits

Certificate of Higher Education

OP2002 Level 5 Further ophthalmic dispensing and contact lenses

120 Diploma of Higher Education in Ophthalmic Dispensing

OP3001 Level 6 Advanced ophthalmic dispensing and refractive management

120 Bachelor Honours Degree in Ophthalmic Dispensing

OP4001 Level 7 Optometric principles and

management of vision

problems

90

OP4002 Level 7 Optometric principles and management of eye health.

90

OP4003 Level 7 Evidence based Practice 60 MSci. In Optometry

Figure 1: Programme structure

We want you to enjoy the Programme and learn to be a professional Optometrist. You will be

performing diagnostic procedures, therapeutic services and delivering patient care as part of a

caregiving team. This begins by educating you to a very high standard in ophthalmic dispensing.

Students who exit the Programme before completing OP4003 receive the above awards. The same

flexibility applies in reverse in that we accept students onto the Programme at different stages,

accrediting prior educational and experiential learning to ensure and encourage a healthy learning

environment. In particular, we accept registered dispensing opticians directly into Module OP4001

subject to passing an entrance exam / interview and having suitable supervision in place.

The BSc. (Hons) Ophthalmic Dispensing can be awarded after completion of Module OP3001. Students

may then apply to sit Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) examinations to enable

registration with the General Optical Council (GOC) as a Dispensing Optician. Successful completion of

level 7 the awarding of the Integrated Master’s in Optometry, will coincide with your pre-registration

period; this will be through the College of Optometrists’ Scheme for Registration.

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This course includes work-based learning; the staff at the university and your mentor at work will

provide you with support throughout the Programme. You are obliged to honour this agreement by

working hard, following advice provided and adhering to suitable standards of behaviour and ethics as

outlined by the GOC in accordance to the standards of practice for students (see appendix 2).

Attendance at all taught lectures, tutorials, practical classes and clinics is essential. Being a health

professional, it is very important that you do not do anything that might result in your “fitness to

practise” being called into question – such as drugs, fraud, falsification of absence, bullying, assault,

cheating, drink driving and inappropriate use of social media.

Our patients must be able to trust and to be reassured about confidentiality. It is easy to forget that

anything put on a social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp may end up anywhere and

can result in disputes. You must not, under any circumstances, place images or information about any

other student, or member of staff, on any form of network/media site without their full written

consent. Similarly, at no time should any information relating to patients or placements be put on a

social networking site or any other internet site even if you do not mention them specifically by name.

Actions such as this would result in a “Fitness to Practise” investigation and may ultimately result in

your studies being terminated.

Aims of the Programme:

Our aim is to produce students trained to the highest educational and clinical standards, who, when

placed in a multi-professional setting can succeed in providing safe, quality patient care consistent with

the competence framework for dispensing opticians and optometrists regulated by the GOC.

Learning outcomes of the Programme:

By completion of the MSci in Optometry programme, students will be able to:

A. Knowledge and Understanding

A1. Analyse written and verbal prescription information and convert to an appropriate optical

appliance

A2. Analyse the needs of anatomical facial features requiring special appliances / housings and take

appropriate measurements

A3. Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of the design and production of a spectacle lens and

frames

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A4. Apply their knowledge of critical scientific principles and concepts relevant to the practice of

optometry in both primary and secondary care settings considering the expectations and

responsibilities of a regulated healthcare profession

A5. Undertake critical evaluation of research into optometry and vision sciences, translate theory into

practice in a clinical setting and solve problems within a multi-professional team

A6. Investigate and manage ocular and systemic disease to a level necessary to function as effective

primary eye care practitioners.

B. Subject-specific skills

B1. Demonstrate practical knowledge of the fitting and aftercare of spectacles

B2. Demonstrate theoretical knowledge of methods of assessing vision, refraction, binocular status and

visual acuity in all patients

B3. To dispense a wide range of optical appliances (spectacles, contact lenses and low vision aids) to

patients taking into consideration the relevant standards, occupational visual standards and offer

appropriate advice to patients based on compliance against these standards

B4. Undertake assessment, recognition, investigation and management of a range of refractive, visual

and eye health related conditions and communicate effectively with all types of patients, carers as well

as other healthcare professionals.

B5. Use clinical tests, optical instrumentation and imaging technologies for the correction of vision as

well as to detect, recognise, diagnose, prevent and manage refractive, oculomotor and sensory

integrative conditions which present in an optometric practice.

B6. Recognise, assess and create management plans related to adverse reactions of ophthalmic drugs,

their safe use and supply, and adverse ocular reactions that may be induced by medical management

of common systemic diseases.

C. Thinking Skills

C1. Demonstrate appropriate study and transferable skills including time management, independent

and group work, numeric and IT skills and oral and written communication.

C2. Demonstrate appropriate laboratory expertise and report writing skills.

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C3. Interpret findings from individualised patient consultations to determine the need for further

investigations to make satisfactory diagnosis

C4. Critically reflect data and subject related literature.

C5. Recognise constraints in order to prioritise workload and resources, both in local organisations and

the broader NHS, social care and public health arenas

D. Other skills relevant to employability and personal development

D1. Demonstrate skills of entrepreneurship, business and employment law whilst having a critical

awareness of the context of market forces and the wider healthcare environment.

D2. Demonstrate skills relating to of Health and Safety, Safeguarding and infection control in

optical/primary care practice.

D3. Know the professional standards related to an optical/primary care practice and be able to reflect

on their own developing attitudes towards professional practice, lifelong learning and continuing

professional development.

D4. Demonstrate an understanding of professional conduct and the expectations placed on the GOC

registrants laid in law, regulations and professional guidance.

D5. Critically evaluate and review how their own practice contributes to the effectiveness of the clinical

environment, incorporating equality, diversity, professionalism and probity

D6. Communicate with teams, colleagues and patients in a manner that is respectful, efficient, effective

and safe in all settings and maintaining effective working relationships with other health professionals.

1.2 Programme Team

The Programme Team is made up of colleagues with expertise in teaching medical sciences alongside

clinical academics from a range of different specialties.

Head of School of Medicine

Professor Cathy Jackson

Email: cjackson19@uclan.ac.uk

Principal Lecturer

Rupal Lovell-Patel

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Email: RLovell-Patel@uclan.ac.uk

Staff and Role

• Rupal Lovell-Patel, Academic Lead for Vision Sciences.

• Catherine Collin, Senior lecturer in Ophthalmic Dispensing and Optometry, Eye Health Clinic

Lead. Module leader for Module OP4002.

• Marie-Laure Orr, Senior lecturer in Ophthalmic Dispensing and Optometry, Course Leader for

Milestone 2 of the Programme and Module leader for Module OP4001.

• Peter Black, Senior Lecturer in Ophthalmic Dispensing and Optometry, Course Leader for

Milestone 1 of the Programme and Module leader for Module OP3001.

• Olaug Grude, Lecturer in Ophthalmic Dispensing and Optometry

• Haleema Younas, Lecturer in Ophthalmic Dispensing and Optometry, Module leader for

Module OP1001.

• Caroline Chambers, Lecturer in Ophthalmic Dispensing and Optometry, Module leader for

Module OP2001

Further details of additional members of the Programme Team and academic staff in the School of

Medicine can be found at: UCLan School of Medicine

Your time in practice and in clinical teaching areas at UCLan will be supplemented by placements and

experience in other settings as appropriate to your studies.

Whilst on clinical placements, you will be supervised by practising clinical staff, with any day-to-day

issues regarding your placement being dealt with by the local staff at the institution in which you are

placed. Whilst on placement, local clinical staff will provide teaching in a wide range of settings such

as binocular vision and paediatrics, therapeutic contact lenses, ocular disease, specialist techniques

used in Hospital eye service to assess patients.

It is advised to incorporate specific environments such as low vision clinics and sight loss support

centres, specialist clinics and ward rounds, as appropriate, to enable fulfilment of your learning

objectives.

You will attend teaching at UCLan campus sites during each placement block. Sessions will be staffed

by a mix of UCLan faculty and practising clinicians such as optometrists, dispensing opticians, contact

lens opticians, consultant ophthalmologists, orthoptists, speciality doctors, other healthcare experts

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and members of industry. Campus sites include the Preston Eye Health Care Clinic and the Medical

Education Centre.

1.3 Expertise of staff

The Programme Team comprises of highly experienced clinicians, academics and scientists who provide

the academic and scientific Programme content. Clinical supervision is provided by experienced clinical

staff with a proven track record in the successful use of clinical techniques and approaches in the

primary and secondary care environment.

Further details about the qualifications, clinical experience and current research interests of our staff

can be found at: School of Medicine Staff

1.4 Academic Advisor

On commencement of the Programme you will be assigned an Academic Advisor from the Vision

sciences team. Your Academic Advisor is there to give guidance and support, to liaise with other staff

regarding student related issues and to serve as a resource for clinical supervisors, mentors and

students. Throughout the year you will meet with your academic advisor on at least 2 occasions to

discuss clinical and theoretical progress and pastoral issues They will be the first point of call for many

of the questions that you might have during the year. Your Academic Advisor will be able to help you

with personal development, including developing skills in self-awareness, reflection and action

planning.

As part of your work-based learning there will be a mentor at the place of work, which will also play an

important role in support (more details are available in the students’ information pack and the

mentor’s guide).

1.5 Administration details

Campus Admin Services (CAS) provides academic administration support for students and staff and are

located in the following hubs which open during term time from 8.45am until 5pm Monday to Thursday

and until 4.00pm on Fridays. The hub can provide general assistance and advice regarding specific

processes such as extenuating circumstances, extensions and appeals.

Greenbank Building

Medicine, Dentistry, Vision Science, School of Business and Enterprise

telephone: 01772 891998 email: GreenbankHub@uclan.ac.uk

Room number GR006.

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If you get in touch always specify your name and course you are enrolled on to allow allocated staff to

help you accordingly.

1.6 Communication

The University expects you to use your UCLan email address and check regularly for messages from

staff. If you send us email messages from other addresses, they risk being filtered out as potential spam

and discarded unread.

The Programme team will communicate via Blackboard. For some parts of the modules team work is

required and Microsoft teams is the preferred mode of communication. Some of these platforms will

be anonymous to encourage freedom of speech and no presumptions being made. Under no

circumstances is abuse tolerated on these sites we encourage conversation as a form of learning,

students are fully responsible and accountable for their posts/actions.

Appointments with for example your Academic Advisor can be accessed via Starfish.

Together with the Student Handbook, you will receive other relevant study guides, which will be placed

in the Student Office on Blackboard. Over the duration of your Programme, we will also send out

regular emails related to Programme issues and events within the School.

Your timetable of UCLan scheduled activity can be accessed via the Blackboard Student Portal:

Unfortunately, on occasion, we may have to cancel lectures at short notice because of staff illness etc.

If there is a late cancellation, we will endeavour to inform you by e-mail, Blackboard announcements

and arrange an alternative lecture. If any lateness or cancellation looks evident, please check your

email for related correspondence as this is usually the most efficient way for staff to communicate

these urgent changes.

Emails will normally be sent from the GreenbankHub@uclan.ac.uk and students are requested to use

this email address when corresponding with the Greenbank Hub. We endeavour to reply to emails

within two working days, but students should be aware that at busy times such as assessment board

periods this may not always be possible. Students may call in to the Greenbank Hub between the times

stated above. Also teaching staff may email directly to you and are happy to receive correspondence

from you with the aim of responding within three working days.

Please also keep an eye on Blackboard. This tends to be used for keeping students up to date regarding

general events and news items.

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1.7 External Examiner

We are pleased to have the following external examiners appointed:

Dr. Hetal Buckhurst. Optometrist from Plymouth University

Julie Lees. Dispensing Optician from ABDO

Dr. Amy Sheppard. Optometrist from Aston University

2. Structure of the Programme

2.1 Overall structure

Figure 2: Programme Structure 1b

The 12-semester based, full time Integrated Master of Science Optometry programme at the University

of Central Lancashire (UCLan) offers a unique and accessible qualification with several exit and entry

points giving flexibility to you to leave the Programme part way through with meaningful certification

of study and the ability to return to your studies later. The programme runs across a total of 4.5

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calendar years. The programme is set out as full time with block release sessions and work based

learning. Please refer to section 1.1 for further details.

2.2 Modules available

Each module is a self-contained block of learning with defined aims, learning outcomes and

assessment. The first three modules are worth 120 credits each. It equates to the learning activity

expected from a full-time undergraduate year. The last three Modules vary in credit load to represent

the master’s degree of a total of 240 credits. The programme has the scheme of registration

interwoven at the end of the programme making it an integrated Master of Science.

Please consult figure 3 below for intended content of all six modules.

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Figure 3: Career ladder model of the programme

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The Programme Specification which details the programme and modules in more depth is available as

a link in Appendix 8.1.

2.3 Programme requirements

All students undertaking this Programme must be registered with the General Optical Council (see

Applying for registration/Students). You are bound by the Code of Conduct as specified by GOC student

standard of practice GOC's standards-for-optical-students.cfm Appendix 8.2 and subject to the UCLan

procedure for the consideration of Fitness to Practise and Regulations for the Conduct of Students:

which can be accessed via Regulations for the Conduct of Students.

As part of the University’s commitment to all students there are university wide regulations, policies

and codes of conduct, which are designed to protect your rights as a student and maintain academic

quality e.g. Uclan students support policy

Within this framework of policies, it is important that you know these policies exist and what their

relevance are for your studies at UCLan. During your induction there is only so much we can show you;

it is up to you to take the time to view these policies to ensure you understand the university’s aim to

provide a safe and fair study environment.

You will have to sign a university Contract and all regulations and policies associated with this is

accessible at: student contract.

You are required to complete an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for any time that

you have resided in the UK from the age of 13 to verify that you have no criminal record.

The CAS Hub will create an DBS application for all students. This will generate an email to you.

You will need to bring original documents to complete the registration process in “Induction week”. A

session to do this is scheduled during induction week. Further information regarding DBS checks can

be found at the following website.

To enter the first of three 120 credit modules, you are required to work in an optical practice and to

be committed to acquiring the necessary knowledge for ophthalmic dispensing, underpinning scientific

knowledge and optics. If you are not proficient in a particular subject area and fail the formative

assessment for the module you will not be allowed to progress further without retaking.

The university can offer support if you are having difficulties (see section on student support).

This group of three modules form MILESTONE 1 see figure 3 and should take 2 calendar years.

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The first three modules, taken over 6 semesters (two calendar years), are akin to a traditional 3-year

blended learning ophthalmic dispensing programmes; this can lead to Fellowship of the British

Association of Dispensing Opticians (FBDO) and registration as a Dispensing Optician by successfully

passing their external exam. This exam requires the student to register with our colleagues from ABDO

whilst undertaking the first three modules.

We encourage this registration from the start of our programme; however, it your own responsibility

to ensure ABDO registration and supervision requirements are met all through Milestone 1.

Students are affected by the ABDO’s requirements in terms of practice visits, logbook and hours worked in

practice.

Students who pass their ABDO exams and who carry on with the programme will simultaneously be

working as a registered Dispensing Optician and as a student Optometrist.

Admission to module OP4001 leading to MSci. Optometry, requires the applicant to have had a

minimum of one year on the Dispensing Opticians register and to be working in an optical practice in

the UK. There will be an entrance exam for the assessment of prior learning as the Milestone 1 content

will have been studied elsewhere. For those students who progress at UCLan from Milestone 1 to

Milestone 2 no such exam is required. Further, module OP3001 needs to have been completed and

passed before progressing to module OP4001.

Students during Milestone 1 of the programme will be mentored by a dispensing optician, an

optometrist or a contact lens optician. The practice base learning supervisor role (see ABDO handbook

provided at registration to ABDO as a supervisor/student) is an arrangement which will be orchestrated

by the colleagues at ABDO with whom we have a close relation in view of administrative requirements

and educational workload.

Effectively, we ask your employer, or a member of the team, to become a mentor to make sure your

day to day university related workload is managed properly. If your colleague wishes to supervise, as

well as mentor, you will have to register this with ABDO as a practice supervisor. The UCLan mentor

title can stay with the same person as you progress during your study into the optometry modules,

Milestone 2, if the mentor is an optometrist.

Modules OP4001 to 6 (semesters 7 to 12) consisting of 90 and 60 credits spanning over another 2.5

years; You must be mentored by a registered optometrist, as you progress towards Programme

completion.

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Throughout the entire programme, you will be working full time in practice, studying extensively in

your own time, and attending mandatory block release weeks at University. The vision sciences staff

are arranging day placements which will be organised mostly during block release. The placements

would be at a variety of locations such as a sight care charity or glazing manufacturer. Block release

run over 5 days (Mon-Fri); currently 2 weeks per semester in modules 1-3 and 3 to 4 weeks per

semester in modules 4 and 5. During Milestone 2 if you have poor attendance, you will not be able to

attain your “safe patient episodes” outlined by the GOC and it will be necessary to schedule an extra

week in the university Eye health clinic (please note that the team can only offer limited catch up slots

in the Eye Health clinic and if it appears that you are going to struggle to meet the GOC patient

requirements, you may have to consider the option to withdraw or intermit).

In semester 7 to 10, one and a half calendar years (Module OP4001 &OP4002), the focus for you is on

building your clinical experience by spending equivalent of two days per week observing in Optometric

Practice throughout your studies.

Semester 11 to 12 (Module OP4003), are a nominal six months with only 60 credits but will extend to

a year (based on progress with the Scheme for Registration). The focus for you here is on building their

clinical expertise as well as evidence-based research. You will acquire the knowledge to find, appraise

and evaluate the best evidence from research. Module OP4003 will coincide with the College of

Optometrists Scheme for Registration. At this point the mentor can also be nominated to become a

supervisor for this period; appropriate registration with the College of Optometrists (COO) will be

required. See document “COO Scheme for Registration handbook” College-optometrists, Qualifying,

scheme-for-registration handbook As you move into the Scheme for Registration, your employment

contract will need to be changed. It is YOUR responsibility to ensure that your employment status and

relevant contracts are in place before you progress into the Scheme for Registration.

All modules within the five-year MSci. programme are compulsory and a minimum 90% attendance is

a requirement. There are no principles of compensation offered. Similarly, all required elements of

assessment must be successfully completed for the module to be passed.

2.4 Module Registration Options

You will follow the online registration pathway to enquire about registration for either Module OP1001

or Module OP4001. Module OP1001 is open to all staff working in a UK optical establishment. Direct

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entry to Module OP4001 is open for any dispensing optician (D.O.) working in practice having been

registered as a D.O. for at least one year with the GOC.

During the entire program, discussions about your progression normally takes place after each module

or during the last block release of the Modules.

Official exam results are communicated via the student record system (Banner). In February and

September of each year (i.e. end of semester one from each Module) there is an opportunity for you

to make plans for your study over the next academic year. The Programme team will tell you about the

next module available and you will both agree on the most appropriate (and legal) Programme for you.

All modules in each year are compulsory, and the assessments of each module must be passed to

enable progression to the next module of the Programme. The award of MSci. Optometry requires

successful completion of all OP1001 – OP4002 modules including the 60-credit research module

OP4003 during the pre-registration period.

2.5 Study Time

2.5.1 Weekly timetable

A timetable will be available once you have enrolled onto the programme, through the Student Portal.

There will be weeks of block release during this time you will be taught on site within the School of

Medicine. Four weeks for modules OP1001-OP3001 and six weeks for module OP4001 and OP4002.

During OP4003 you will need to submit work online. There is no block release in OP4003; however, you

are affected by the College of Optometrists’ requirements in terms of practice visits and hours worked

in practice.

2.5.2 Expected hours of study

The University regulations on credits nominate that 1 credit equals to 10 notional learning hours.

Although the teaching hours can be found on the timetable in Blackboard, the module descriptor and

in the module guides; you may find that they are working above these hours in order to successfully

complete the Programme (depending on your learning style). Many lectures, workshops and

placement activities require preparatory work prior to attendance and this must be completed. You

should also expect to read more widely to aid your understanding of a subject and to test your

understanding regularly.

Each week you are required typically to study 16 hrs.

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For example, OP1001 to OP3001 require around 20 formative work assignments completed using the

online learning platform. A typical weekly assignment will involve 2 topics each comprising 6 hours of

directed learning and 8 hours of independent study, plus one hour to reflect on previous work /

formative assessment. And one hour set aside for discussion with the practice supervisor. 16 hours

total study time per week on top of working full time.

Additionally, there will be substantial independent study required to prepare portfolio case records

and pre-coursework preparation. The Blackboard virtual learning environment will be used to deliver

these weekly learning units.

Formative assessment by way of regular feedback from the academic tutor during module

OP1001OP3001 and online Multiple-Choice Questionnaire’s during module OP4001 & OP4002 are

instrumental to the learning process as is the involvement from the work-based Mentor from an early

stage.

You will be working a minimum of 30 hours a week in practice, under supervision, during the first three

modules. You will then reduce to 3 days a week for module OP 4001 and OP4002. During your pre-

registration period the working hours will increase again as you will be working as a Pre-Registration

Optometrist (employment contract will need to be changed).

Please refer to module descriptors for specific guidance on taught and self-directed study and bear in

mind that the greater input from yourself the easier you will find it keeping up with the demanding

pace and achieve higher standards.

2.5.3 Attendance Requirements

You are required to attend all timetabled learning activities. Requests for authorised absence must be

made to your academic advisor in advance. Authorised absence will not normally be granted where

the absence will adversely impact on student attendance and/or education. This may result in

students being unable to attend family functions, external events, paid or voluntary activity. We

advise students to plan extra-curricular activities and travel with this in mind.

There is a Student Attendance and Retention Monitoring system at UCLan (SAM) which is located on

entry of each room and it is imperative you only scan in those rooms that you enter. Scanning your ID

card in without entering the room is viewed as a breach of contract and does not only bring your

integrity into dispute it shows poor professionalism. The Greenbank Hub also manages a process for

ID cards that will not scan or are lost/forgotten. You must complete a form (signed by the tutor) and

submit to the Greenbank Hub.

20

Please note all international student’s responsibilities under the Visas and Immigration (UKVI) Points

Based System (PBS) - you MUST attend your Programme of study regularly; under PBS, UCLan is obliged

to tell UKVI if you withdraw from a Programme, defer or suspend your studies, or if you fail to attend

the Programme regularly. No holidays or leave to go home may be booked during term time.

The administration of attendance is undertaken by the Student Immigration and Compliance Team

(SICT).

You can check your attendance record through UCLan Blackboard and staff can access this information

through starfish.

Sharing your attendance information with your employers is important for your integrity as they are

sponsoring your place on this Programme.

Study days typically start at 09:00 and end at 16:00 although it often is required that you attend outside

of these hours, especially until 18.00 and to plan for this will help greatly in dealing with unplanned

situations. A detailed timetable of study days will be made available during your induction day on the

programme. You should be prepared to be available from 08:00-19:00 during the block sessions.

The academic year is planned to start in September, when other university students commence.

Students will be working, attending lectures and residential blocks for up to 47 weeks per year.

Absence

It is an expectation and requirement that you attend all scheduled activities in all areas of your study:

clinical skills sessions, tutorials, seminars, lectures and placement activity. Any non-attendance

(regardless of the reason for the absence) will be recorded.

Notification of absence (including illness) from any part of the Programme of study, any examination

or placement period must be notified to the Greenbank Hub Attendance 01772 891998; NOT by email

to GreenbankHubattendance@uclan.ac.uk, by no later than 09.00hrs on the day in question.

You should notify GreenbankHubattendance@uclan.ac.uk with your return date so that university

records can be kept up to date and you must complete a Sickness Absence form, available from

Greenbank Hub reception GR006. Absence through illness for periods longer than five consecutive days

must also be supported by a medical certificate authorised by a medical practitioner and should be

submitted to the Greenbank Hub Reception.

21

Absence when on Clinical Placement

When on clinical Placement, notification of absence (including illness) needs to be reported to your

clinical supervisor (or other allocated person) on the 1st day of absence/sickness, via a personal

telephone call. It is also necessary for you to notify Greenbank Hub attendance on 01772 891998.

It should be noted that a minimum of 90% attendance is a requirement for this Programme. If you are

unable to meet that requirement due to ill health or for any other reason should make an appointment

with your Academic Supervisor or Pastoral Tutor in the first instance.

If you have not gained the required authorisation for leave of absence, do not respond to

communications from the University or if you are absent for two weeks or more, you may be deemed

to have withdrawn from the Programme. If this is the case, then the date of withdrawal will be

recorded as the last day of attendance.

In addition, should you wish to speak with a member of the University Wellbeing Team, who consist of

a range of dedicated advisors who are specialists in Counselling, Inclusive Support, Mental Health &

Wellbeing, please see information found on the Student Wellbeing webpage, or by visiting the <i> on

the ground floor of the Main Campus Library.

You can find further information on UCLan’s attendance policy at www.uclan.ac.uk/sam.

3. Approaches to teaching and learning

3.1 Learning and teaching methods

The Programme is offered as blended learning in an optical practice and using this experience with

academic study to evolve as a professional academically, technically and clinically.

A variety of teaching and learning methods are used throughout the Programme. In the early stages of

the Programme, teaching staff will guide your learning, but also expect you to develop the skills for

self-directed education through reflection and independent learning. As you progress you will be

expected to have started the journey of “lifelong learning” and as with all health professionals, take

considerable responsibility for directing your own learning in addition to seeking assistance from staff

for further guidance.

Our aim in the first turn of the curriculum spiral establishes a link between your current knowledge,

skills and attitudes, and the requirement for you to become independent lifelong learners, able to meet

the professional challenges. You will be introduced to the fundamentals of optical science and begin

to develop the skills that are essential for optical students. During the subsequent turns of the spiral,

the modules take an integrated approach to the eye, examining normal structure and function, how

22

disease processes affect the eye, adnexa and brain. The mechanism of action of drugs used to treat

ocular and systemic disease. The latter stages the Programme encourages clinical decision making and

thinking in relation to evidence-based research.

At the first stage of the Programme, you will all have different experiences and whilst some scenarios

will be common, you will be expected to take every opportunity to increase your knowledge and

experience whilst in practice and clinical settings, rather than always waiting to be given direction.

Teaching in the first three years will be based on the blended learning concept, which involves block

release on campus sessions and distance learning, whilst working under a mentor within your place of

work. The aim is to guide you and ensure that the work environment is set up for further development

and learning at all times. Supervision is needed if you want to obtain dispensing opticians registration

and it will need to be organized by you and ABDO (see mentor’s guide for further information).

Teaching will be supported by online resources available to all students accessed through the virtual

learning environment: Blackboard (student log in required) and a variety of online materials (recorded

lectures, videos, discussions). You will be able to contact your academic advisor in timetabled virtual

office hour sessions via Starfish. These times will be made clear to you by your academic advisor on

induction.

A mixture of practical skills acquisition, small group work, case-based learning, inter- professional

learning and “flipped classroom” teaching will be set on block release. This will be supported by

discussions of the set work and more traditional lectures. Face to face workshops, tutorials, group work

(problem-based/case scenario-based team learning) and practical skills labs (during the block session

at the University) will ensure application of knowledge. Access to specialist skills labs and the Eye Clinic

at the university will aid in developing the clinical and practical skills needed to be an eye care health

professional. Supervised eye examination experience in the Eye clinic will provide an excellent learning

environment along with attendance at specialist/ hospital clinics regionally. You will also be expected

to keep a portfolio, which you will use to log all your experiences, reflections and work place-based

learning/achievements. Formative feedback and independent study will further integrate the skills via

the optical practice where you work whilst studying.

For detailed requirements on case records and word counts please see individual module information

packs and module descriptors.

Skills and knowledge acquisition and understanding will be demonstrated by the successful completion

of the range of assessment embedded within the programme.

Assessment will be conducted in a range of ways including:

23

Assessment Formative Summative

Closed book examinations

Practical examinations

Practical assessment of clinical competence

Problem solving exercises

Student presentations

Data analysis

The modes of assessment employed is tailored to the knowledge and understanding requirements of

the module. This will in turn reflect the level of delivery and the expectations of you. You will

progressively integrate your understanding of ophthalmic dispensing and optometry and will reflect

this understanding in the completion of your assessment.

3.2 Study skills

The Programme team supports your development and provides guidance for your independent study

to help you develop as an autonomous learner. Study skills are part of the induction within your first

module OP1001. You will acquire many study skills at different stages of your development; a great

way to find help is through accessing WISER.

You can access WISER and various other Library resources such as Linkedin learning (UCLan student

login required) to learn how to study more effectively and communicate at a professional level.

WISER offers 1-to-1 support, interactive workshops and online study advice, so that you can reach

your full potential and achieve the grades you deserve.

Other recommended resources will be signposted via Blackboard. Staff are encouraged to make sure

individual students needs are met within their individual academic advisor’s role.

Below is an example of the different Programmes available online, in and around campus for all UCLan

students and offered free of charge.

http://www.uclan.ac.uk/research/study/student_training.php

24

3.3 Learning resources

3.3.1 Learning Information Services (LIS)

Generic information is included in the Student Handbook. You will be encouraged to view professional

journals such as: Optometry Today, Optician and College of Optometrist websites as you can register

for student memberships.

LIS provide resources and support particularly relevant for this Programme, such as subject guides or

access to on-line databases? Please contact your subject liaison officer Julie Brand. If you would like

more information on library services available please use this link : Library services before contacting

the subject librarian.

3.3.2 Electronic Resources

Material will be available from Blackboard. We will be using MS Teams, Skype or Adobe Connect to

liaise with you on a regular basis. Generic information is included in the module information packs.

3.4 Personal development planning

The Meditrek e-portfolio that you will use will have a tracking system to show you which tasks are

completed, and which still need to be achieved. Your registration with the professional organisations

will enable you to access a world of resources. The induction process will introduce continuing

education and professional development. Most of you have chosen to progress in your line of work to

become a qualified professional and with this a statutory requirement to comply with yearly minimum

required amount of Continuing Education and Training.

3.5 Preparing for your career

UCLan has a great Careers department offering ongoing advice, guidance, drop in sessions and online

careers support/resources.

Members of the Career team have developed a career EDGE which looks at: Development Learning;

Experience (Work & Life); Degree Subject knowledge, Understanding & Skills; Generic Skills; and

Emotional Intelligence. As a UCLan student, you will have access to it online and at least during one of

the distance learning blocks (in module OP1001 and OP3001 and again in module OP4001).

Additional preparation for block release and learning within your place of work is your responsibility.

If you feel your place of work is unable to provide you sufficient support, it is your responsibility to

notify your work-based mentor to find a solution. This can be escalated to your tutor if options are

insufficient.

25

As this is a new programme of delivery, especially when starting Module OP4001, it is imperative that

close liaisons are kept between all parties. Our experiences from other modes of delivering optometry

tuition is that optometry has a high percentage of successful graduate employment. What is unique

about this scenario is that you will be working whilst learning the profession, theory and clinical skills

needed for a successful career in Optics. Experiencing the university environment whilst on block

release will support your learning and knowledge gained. Communication and empathy are key to the

optical professional; the experience is open to development the moment you step into the profession.

4. Student Support

The <I> is the university’s one-stop Student Information Centre. This service is on the ground floor of

the Library and is where students can seek help on a range of queries. It provides help on all aspects of

University life, via face-to-face and Email: thei@uclan.ac.uk

Twitter:@theiuclan

Facebook www.facebook.com/uclanthei.

Furthermore it is accessible via: students library-it, the i

Academic support and guidance can be offered by Greenbank Hub. The staff can signpost you to the

person best qualified to deal with your query, whether that is another UCLan service, an academic

member of staff or the Students’ Union.

UCLan offers care leavers support; this service offers a range of support and services to help all students

away from their families.

If you are looking for a friendly atmosphere, advice, information or personal support, you will find them

at the University’s Multi-Faith Centre. The Centre exists to encourage people in the pursuit and

development of their faith and to promote understanding and respect amongst members of different

beliefs.

We understand that at different stages of your university life you may need different types of support

and advice depending on your own individual needs.

The Student Mentoring Service is UCLan’s centralised mentoring service. We organise 1-to-1 and e-

mentoring support, advice and guidance for students. You can register for a mentor either before you

arrive or when you get here.

The Wellbeing team offer support to students in crisis or who are facing a difficult time at present. This

can include, but isn’t limited to, addiction, homelessness, sexual assault, domestic violence, finance,

26

accommodation issues, halls and bullying. We offer practical support and can make referrals to services

internal and external to UCLan.

The Counselling Service at UCLan is staffed by a team of professionally trained and experienced

professionals. We offer a free, confidential service to all registered UCLan students throughout the

year (except during short periods over the Christmas and Easter breaks). Whatever your difficulty you

are welcome and will be treated with respect.

UCLan has a dedicated inclusive support team that and fully committed to enabling access to all

individuals who seek to benefit from our educational activities. The aims of the inclusive support team

are to strive to remove any barriers for those with disabilities as far as possible, to ensure that we

provide an inclusive environment and that we address any areas of under-representation or barriers

to access, retention, satisfaction or success where they may be found. If you have a disability you

should read 4.2 of this document as it outlines what the General Optical Council requirements are in

terms of disabilities.

Mental health Advisors offer short-term support and can advise you if you experience mental health

difficulties. They offer assessment appointments, advice and will signpost you to services to best meet

your needs.

The Pre-school Centre is part of the Student and Academic Support Service and is located in a purpose

built single storey building with an enclosed outside play area.

We want you to enjoy this programme and your UCLan experience and would recommend to regularly

visit the news and event site.

4.1 Academic Advisor

You will be given the name of their academic advisor at Induction in the Introduction

Week and details of where and when to attend during the year will be placed

Blackboard. Appointments will be made via Starfish.

Your Academic Advisor is responsible for the formal meetings which take place at a minimum of twice

a year (once a semester). During these meetings you are required to bring your Meditrek e portfolio

and any academic feedback.

There is no mandatory requirement for the UCLan tutor/clinic Supervisor and work-based mentor to

communicate with each other, but if your progress is raising any cause for concern then it is highly

recommended that they should do so. You have a responsibility as part of you contract with the

27

university and with the GOC that you own up to any difficulties that you might have. If you have

concerns of your wellbeing and you find the current route to your work-based mentor or academic

adviser inappropriate you have the possibility to make an appointment with a pastoral tutor from the

School of Medicine or contact students support wellbeing service.

4.2 Students with disabilities

Students with a disability are advised to contact the inclusive support team whom are fully committed

to enabling access to all individuals who seek to benefit from UCLan’s educational activities.

The GOC has a strategy to Equality, diversity and inclusion; and expects training or educational

establishments to comply with the Equality act 2010 and to take positive steps to encourage and

facilitate the uptake of courses by disabled students. The Act suggests that to make 'reasonable

adjustments' requires that you find out how we can adapt your Programmes to meet your needs; the

needs of students with disabilities vary significantly. The duty is only to make 'reasonable adjustments'

which means that the staff at UCLan do not have to make every adjustment that a student asks for.

The programme team cannot however claim that an adjustment is unreasonable only because it is

expensive or inconvenient. The programme team should not opinionate as to whether the student is

likely to be able to obtain employment at the end of the Programme, as this is likely to be

discriminatory. Whether or not an adjustment is reasonable will depend on many factors, including:

*ability to ensure patient safety as well as demonstrate *maintenance of patient safety with the

reasonable adjustment in place, * the cost of the adjustment (should, in most cases, obtain costings)

and * the effect of the adjustment.

Consideration of the effect of the adjustment will include whether the student will be able, with the

adjustment, to meet the GOC's competencies. If the team is unsure about this point, you should liaise

with the College of Optometrists or Association of British Dispensing Opticians. If the team are minded

to refuse an adjustment because in their view the student would not meet the GOC competencies, it

is recommended that team contacts the GOC.

Even if the GOC takes the view that a particular competency is not discriminatory, it will remain the

responsibility of the training or educational establishment to decide whether it is reasonable to make

the adjustment in question (this citation comes directly from appendix C of the GOC handbook for

Accreditation and Quality assurance: routes to registration in Optometry 2015).

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4.3 Students’ Union

The Students’ Union offers thousands of volunteering opportunities ranging from representative to

other leadership roles. We also advertise paid work and employ student staff on a variety of roles. You

can find out more information on their website.

5. Assessment

5.1 Assessment Strategy

Formative: Multiple choice questions (MCQ), short answer questions (SAQ),

calculations, practical skills stations, presentations and case report/portfolio

submission.

The Summative Assessment for this programme consists MCQ, SAQ and a submitted practical portfolio

in which a reflective report shows in depth understanding of necessary learning points and

achievements.

Group presentations (formative) as well as written exams (formative and summative) are used to

assess knowledge and understanding.

In the event of failing a summative written examination, you will be required to retake all written

examinations assessments for the module.

Full instructions are available in the Assessment Handbook (Section 5.4).

5.2 Notification of assignments and examination arrangements

You will be notified of the requirements for individual assessments and their respective deadlines for

submission / examination during a timetabled session and within module information pack or through

Blackboard.

Timetabling within the block release is organised in such a way that exams take place on campus either

in a computer lab (if it concerns a theory exam) or within the clinical dispensing lab or optometry lab

for OSCE’s and other practical exams. The deadlines and marking criteria of summative exams can be

found in the individual module information pack and will be able to be viewed via Blackboard under

the heading assignments.

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5.3 Referencing

“The aim of a piece of academic writing is to demonstrate your knowledge and ideas. To do this you

construct an argument on a given topic. To make your argument strong, you need to supply evidence.

This can consist of your own research or the work of other authors. Your ideas are central, and the

other authors are there merely to support you. It must be clear in your work what is your ‘voice’ and

what is the ‘voice’ of the other authors. Referencing is the chief means of doing that” (cited by WISER

slide 6 -” no date”).

The division of Vision Sciences would like you to use Harvard referencing system and the library at

UCLan currently has several reference management systems. The Library Information Service (LIS)

website has great workshops that you can access or book to attend for training.

5.4 Confidential material

You have a duty of care towards your patients, volunteers within the Eye Health Clinic this includes

respecting confidentiality (Log in required). Cases should not be discussed at any time unless clinically

or educationally appropriate. Patient anonymity should be maintained throughout. Any discussion

should not contain derogatory comments under any circumstances. Under no circumstances are clinic

records to be taken from the clinic.

Under student conduct guideline document D2 14, deliberate disclosure of privileged and confidential

information to unauthorised people; failure to adhere to intellectual property rights and/or breach of

copyright; are classes as misconduct.

As a member of the medical profession, patients and colleagues will entrust you with information

which it is expected that you will treat as confidential. This may relate to patient histories or details, or

perhaps information about other colleagues. ALL information that students hear or see in a clinical

setting must be regarded as confidential.

No information concerning any aspect of clinical placements (anonymised or not) must be included in

any posting on social media sites such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc. For more information

please see the College of Optometrists advice page for using social media (Log in required).

No images or sound recordings may be captured in any clinical setting using any personal devices – all

clinical images or clinical sound recordings require informed consent by all parties and may not be

obtained by a student in this context. Any breach of confidentiality will result in your fitness to practice

being investigated by the medical school. The College of Optometrist guideline on consent can be

accessed here (Log in required).

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5.4 Cheating, Plagiarism, Collusion or Re-presentation

Please refer to the information in the University Student Assessment Handbook for full definitions and

through Wiser (Blackboard log in required). The University uses an online Assessment Tool called

Turnitin. A pseudo-Turnitin assignment will be set up using the School space on Blackboard (Student

log in required) to allow you to check as many drafts as the system allows before your final submission

to the ‘official’ Turnitin assignment. You are required to self-submit your own assignment on Turnitin

and you will be given access to the Originality Reports arising from each submission. Turnitin may also

be used to assist with plagiarism detection and collusion, where there is suspicion about individual

piece(s) of work.

6. Classification of Awards

The University publishes the principles underpinning the way in which awards and results are decided

in Academic Regulations. Decisions about the overall classification of awards are made by Assessment

Boards through the application of the academic and relevant Programme regulations.

7. Student Feedback

You can play an important part in the process of improving the quality of this

Programme through the feedback you give. There a few ways the school of

Medicine at UCLan collects feedback. The school will contribute in making you

aware of when the Module Feedback Questionnaires (MFQ) are available. It is however to everybody’s

advantage to give positive as well as negative. Remember even if you use social media, it might not be

the best medium to vent your thoughts. Anyone we share information with is under the obligation to

process such information securely and in accordance with the current data protection legislation

7.1 Student Staff Liaison Committee Meetings (SSLCs)

Details of the Protocol for the operation of SSLCs is included in section 8.2 of the University Student

Handbook.

APPENDIX 6A CDG

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8. Appendices

8.1 Programme Specification(s)

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL LANCASHIRE

Programme Specification

This Programme Specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if he/she takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided.

Sources of information on the programme can be found in Section 17

1. Awarding Institution

University of Central Lancashire

2. Teaching Institution and Location of Delivery

UCLan Preston

3. University School

School of Medicine

4. External Accreditation

To be sought from: General Optical Council (GOC) and Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO). The College of Optometrists will be responsible for the Scheme for Registration (the final year of the course – the pre-registration year)

5. Title of Final Award

MSci Optometry. BSc (Hons) Ophthalmic Dispensing

6. Modes of Attendance offered

Full-time and Part-time.

7a) UCAS Code B510 (using the Optometry course code rather than Ophthalmic Dispensing, there is the B511 code for MSci Optometry)

7b) JACS Code B510

7c) HECoS Code

100036

8. Relevant Subject Benchmarking Group(s)

Optometry (2015)

9. Other external influences

General Optical Council Core Competencies for Ophthalmic Dispensing 2011and Optometry 2015

APPENDIX 6A CDG

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10. Date of production/revision of this form

March 2019

11. Aims of the Programme • To support and enable graduates from a wide range of backgrounds to achieve

academic, professional and clinical skills to work competently in optometric practice providing a range of eye health care services (usually open to optometrists and dispensing opticians) to the public. This will be achieved by:

• Providing grounding knowledge of scientific principles on visual and ophthalmic optics related to correction of ametropia

• Providing grounding knowledge of physiology and biochemical sciences related to understanding, recognition, management of systemic and ocular conditions commonly presenting in an optical practice.

• Ensuring that graduates acquire analytical and clinical skills, including numeracy and communication to be able to practice in an ethical and safe manner within the professional guidelines.

• Providing candidates with environment to develop critical skills in the assessment, investigation and management of people with a range of identified ocular conditions as specified by the General Optical Council.

• Enable candidates to demonstrate competence in the practice of optometric skills as set out by the General Optical Council’s Core Competencies for Optometry so that they can seek registration to work as an optometrist in the UK.

• Enable candidate to develop as reflective and person-centred practitioners, compatible with the values expected of the optometry profession

12. Learning Outcomes, Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods A. Knowledge and Understanding On successful completion of the course a student will be expected to be able to: A1. Analyse written and verbal prescription information and convert to an appropriate optical appliance A2. Analyse the needs of anatomical facial features requiring special appliances / housings and take appropriate measurements A3. Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of the design and production of spectacle lenses and frames A4. Apply their knowledge of critical scientific principles and concepts relevant to the practice of optometry in both primary and secondary care settings considering the expectations and responsibilities of a regulated healthcare profession A5. Undertake critical evaluation of research into optometry and vision sciences, translate theory into practice in a clinical setting and solve problems within a multi-professional team A6. Investigate and manage ocular and systemic disease to a level necessary to function as effective primary eye care practitioners. Teaching and Learning Methods As this will be a blended learning delivery, teaching technologies, especially the virtual learning environment will play a crucial part. A variety of online materials (recorded lectures, videos, discussions) will be utilised to underpin the knowledge while face to face workshops, tutorials, group work (problem-based and case scenario-based team learning) and practical skills labs (during the block session at the University) will ensure that students can apply the knowledge. Formative feedback and independent study will be further integrating the knowledge into skill in the world setting as the students will be working in an optical practice while they are studying Assessment methods Formative: Multiple choice questions, short answer questions, practical skills stations, presentations and case report/portfolio submission

APPENDIX 6A CDG

33

Summative: Multiple choice questions, short answer questions, OSCE’s, case report/portfolio submission, and written exams. B. Subject-specific skills On successful completion of the course a student will be expected to be able to: B1. Demonstrate practical knowledge of the fitting and aftercare of spectacles B2. Demonstrate theoretical knowledge of methods of assessing vision, refraction, binocular status and visual acuity in all patients B3. To dispense a wide range of optical appliances (spectacles, contact lenses and low vision aids) to patients taking into consideration the relevant standards, occupational visual standards and offer appropriate advice to patients based on compliance against these standards B4. Undertake assessment, recognition, investigation and management of a range of refractive, visual and eye health related conditions and communicate effectively with all types of patients, carers as well as other healthcare professionals. B5. Use clinical tests, optical instrumentation and imaging technologies for the correction of vision as well as to detect, recognise, diagnose, prevent and manage refractive, oculomotor and sensory integrative conditions which present in an optometric practice. B6. Recognise, assess and create management plans related to adverse reactions of ophthalmic drugs, their safe use and supply, and adverse ocular reactions that may be induced by medical management of common systemic diseases. Teaching and Learning Methods Access to specialist skills labs and the Eye Clinic at the university will aid in developing the clinical and practical skills needed to be an eye care health professional. Supervised eye examination experience in the Eye clinic will provide an excellent learning and teaching environment along with attendance to specialist and hospital clinics regionally. A variety of online materials (recorded lectures, videos, discussions) will be utilised to underpin the knowledge while face to face workshops, tutorials, group work (problem-based and case scenario-based team learning) and practical skills labs (during the block session at the University) will ensure that students can apply the knowledge. Formative feedback and independent study will be further integrating the knowledge into skill in the world setting as the students will be working in an optical practice while they are studying. Assessment methods Formative: Multiple choice questions, short answer questions, practical skills stations, case report/portfolio submission and presentations Summative: Multiple choice questions, short answer questions, OSCE’s, viva’s, case report/portfolio submission and written exams. C. Thinking Skills On successful completion of the course a student will be expected to be able to: C1. Demonstrate appropriate study and transferable skills including time management, independent and group work, numeric and IT skills and oral and written communication. C2. Demonstrate appropriate laboratory expertise and report writing skills. C3. Interpret findings from individualised patient consultations to determine the need for further investigations to make satisfactory diagnosis C4. Critically reflect data and subject related literature. C5. Recognise constraints in order to prioritise workload and resources, both in local organisations and the broader NHS, social care and public health arenas Teaching and Learning Methods A variety of online materials (recorded lectures, videos, discussions) will be utilised to underpin the knowledge while face to face workshops, tutorials, group work (problem-based and case scenario-based team learning) and practical skills labs (during the block session at the University) will

APPENDIX 6A CDG

34

ensure that students can apply the knowledge. Students will have guidance for their independent study to help them develop as an autonomous learner. Students will have access to the University wide study and academic skills support workshops and specific online courses as well as library skills training. Formative feedback and independent study will be further integrating the knowledge into skill in the world setting as the students will be working in an optical practice while they are studying. Assessment methods Formative: Multiple choice questions, short answer questions, practical skills stations, interviews/role playing and case report/portfolio submission Summative: Multiple choice questions, short answer questions, case report/portfolio submission, viva’s and written exams (as appropriate) D. Other skills relevant to employability and personal development Students will be employed whilst studying. However, on successful completion of the course a student will be expected to be able to: D1. Demonstrate skills of entrepreneurship, business and employment law whilst having a critical awareness of the context of market forces and the wider healthcare environment. D2. Demonstrate skills relating to of Health and Safety, Safeguarding and infection control in optical/primary care practice. D3. Know the professional standards related to an optical/primary care practice and be able to reflect on their own developing attitudes towards professional practice, lifelong learning and continuing professional development. D4. Demonstrate professional conduct and the expectations placed on the GOC registrants laid in law, regulations and professional guidance. D5. Critically evaluate and review how their own practice contributes to the effectiveness of the clinical environment, incorporating equality, diversity, professionalism and probity D6. Communicate with teams, colleagues and patients in a manner that is respectful, efficient, effective and safe in all settings and maintaining effective working relationships with other health professionals. Teaching and Learning Methods A variety of online materials (recorded lectures, videos, discussions) will be utilised to underpin the knowledge while face to face workshops, tutorials, group work (problem-based and case scenario-based team learning) and practical skills labs (during the block session at the University) will ensure that students can apply the knowledge. Students will have access to University wide careers and employability team to help them plan their future career progression. Assessment methods Formative: Multiple choice questions, short answer questions, practical skills stations, interviews/role playing, presentations and case report/portfolio submission Summative: Multiple choice questions, short answer questions, case report/portfolio submission and written exams (as appropriate) 13. Programme Structures*

14. Awards and Credits*

Level Module Code

Module Title Credit rating

Level 7 OP4003 Evidence-based Practice 60 MSci in Optometry Requires 600 credits including a minimum of 120 at Level 7, a minimum of 220 at Level 6 or

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35

above and a minimum of 360 at Level 5

Level 7 OP4002 and OP4001

Optometric principles and managing vision related problems And Optometric principles and management of eye health

90 90

Level 6 OP3001 Advanced ophthalmic dispensing and ocular abnormalities

120 Bachelor Honours Degree in Ophthalmic Dispensing Requires 360 credits including a minimum of 220 at Level 5 or above and 100 at Level 6

Level 5 OP2001 Further ophthalmic dispensing and contact lenses

120 Diploma of Higher Education in Ophthalmic Dispensing Requires 240credits at Level 4 or above

Level 4 OP1001 Introduction to ophthalmic dispensing and optometric practice

120 Certificate of Higher Education Requires 120 credits at Level 4 or above

15. Personal Development Planning This programme is primarily a vocational degree designed to provide student with professional body clinical core competencies and design of this programme is that student will be employed in an optical practice whilst studying. This programme will help students develop their academic ability and forge their personal and professional development. The programme will provide the opportunity for students to plan realistically their career progression and manage their own career development and lifelong learning. 16. Admissions criteria * (including agreed tariffs for entry with advanced standing) *Correct as at date of approval. For latest information, please consult the University’s website. Level 4: Must be employed within an optical practice and have a suitable mentor. Grade CDD passes at A2 level with at least one subject from the sciences (Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics or Physics) preferably at the higher grade combined with GCSE English, Science and Mathematics plus two others at a minimum grade C or grade 4 (standard pass) equivalent + 1 year optical work experience. Or Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Optical Retail Skills + 1 year optical work experience + 5 GCSEs as above Or SMCTech qualification + 5 GCSEs as above Level 7: A BSc degree (2:1 or better) in Ophthalmic Dispensing or registered Dispensing optician with one year post-registration experience along with passing the entrance exam. All candidates will require DBS checks. Entry into other levels such as Level 5 and 7 will be subject to case by case review for APL. APL can be specific module credit or course/subject credit.

APPENDIX 6A CDG

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17. Key sources of information about the programme • QAA Subject Benchmark, Optometry 2015 • The General Optical Council Core Competencies for Ophthalmic Dispensing 2011 and

Optometry, 2015

Note: Mapping to other external frameworks, e.g. professional/statutory bodies, will be included within Student Course Handbooks

18. Curriculum Skills Map Please tick in the relevant boxes where individual Programme Learning Outcomes are being assessed

Level Module Code Module Title

Core (C), Compulsory (COMP) or Option (O)

Programme Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and understanding Subject-specific Skills Thinking Skills

Other skills relevant to employability and personal

development A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 A6 B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6 C1 C2 C3 C4 C5 D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 D6

LEVE

L 7

OP4003

Evidence-based Practice

COMP

OP4002

Optometric principles and management of eye health

COMP

OP4001

Optometric principles and managing

vision related problems

COMP

LEVE

L 6

OP3001 Advanced ophthalmic dispensing and

ocular abnormalities COMP

LEVE

L 5

OP2001

Further ophthalmic dispensing and contact lenses

COMP

LEVE

L 4

OP1001

Introduction to ophthalmic dispensing and optometric practice

COMP

19. LEARNING OUTCOMES FOR EXIT AWARDS: For each exit award available, list learning outcomes relating to the knowledge and understanding, subject specific skills, thinking, other skills relevant to employability and personal development that a typical student might be expected to gain as a result of successfully completing each level of a course of study. Learning outcomes for the award of: CertHE A1. Analyse written and verbal prescription information and convert to an appropriate optical appliance B1. Demonstrate practical knowledge of the fitting and aftercare of spectacles C1. Demonstrate appropriate study and transferable skills including time management, independent and group work, numeric and IT skills and oral and written communication. C5. Recognise constraints in order to prioritise workload and resources, both in local organisations and the broader NHS, social care and public health arenas D1. Demonstrate skills of entrepreneurship, business and employment law whilst having a critical awareness of the context of market forces and the wider healthcare environment. D2. Demonstrate skills relating to of Health and Safety, Safeguarding and infection control in optical/primary care practice. D3. Know the professional standards related to an optical/primary care practice and be able to reflect on their own developing attitudes towards professional practice, lifelong learning and continuing professional development. D4. Demonstrate an understanding of professional conduct and the expectations placed on the GOC registrants laid in law, regulations and professional guidance. Learning outcomes for the award of: DipHE, in addition to those listed above: A2. Analyse the needs of anatomical facial features requiring special appliances / housings and take appropriate measurements A3. Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of the design and production of a spectacle lens and frames B3. To dispense a wide range of optical appliances (spectacles, contact lenses and low vision aids) to patients taking into consideration the relevant standards, occupational visual standards and offer appropriate advice to patients based on compliance against these standardsC1. Demonstrate appropriate study and transferable skills including time management, independent and group work, numeric and IT skills and oral and written communication C2. Demonstrate appropriate laboratory expertise and report writing skills C5. Recognise constraints in order to prioritise workload and resources, both in local organisations and the broader NHS, social care and public health arenas D1. Demonstrate skills of entrepreneurship, business and employment law whilst having a critical awareness of the context of market forces and the wider healthcare environment. D2. Demonstrate skills relating to of Health and Safety, Safeguarding and infection control in optical/primary care practice. D4. Demonstrate an understanding of professional conduct and the expectations placed on the GOC registrants laid in law, regulations and professional guidance D5. Critically evaluate and review how their own practice contributes to the effectiveness of the clinical environment, incorporating equality, diversity, professionalism and probity

Learning outcomes for the award of: BSc (Hons) Ophthalmic Dispensing, in addition to those listed above: A4. Apply their knowledge of critical scientific principles and concepts relevant to the practice of optometry in both primary and secondary care settings considering the expectations and responsibilities of a regulated healthcare profession B2. Demonstrate theoretical knowledge of methods of assessing vision, refraction, binocular status and visual acuity in all patients B3. To dispense a wide range of optical appliances (spectacles, contact lenses and low vision aids) to patients taking into consideration the relevant standards, occupational visual standards and offer appropriate advice to patients based on compliance against these standards C1. Demonstrate appropriate study and transferable skills including time management, independent and group work, numeric and IT skills and oral and written communication. C2. Demonstrate appropriate laboratory expertise and report writing skills. C3. Interpret findings from individualised patient consultations to determine the need for further investigations to make satisfactory diagnosis C4. Critically reflect data and subject related literature C5. Recognise constraints in order to prioritise workload and resources, both in local organisations and the broader NHS, social care and public health arenas D1. Demonstrate skills of entrepreneurship, business and employment law whilst having a critical awareness of the context of market forces and the wider healthcare environment. D2. Demonstrate skills relating to of Health and Safety, Safeguarding and infection control in optical/primary care practice. D3. Know the professional standards related to an optical/primary care practice and be able to reflect on their own developing attitudes towards professional practice, lifelong learning and continuing professional development. D4. Demonstrate an understanding of professional conduct and the expectations placed on the GOC registrants laid in law, regulations and professional guidance. D6. Communicate with teams, colleagues and patients in a manner that is respectful, efficient, effective and safe in all settings and maintaining effective working relationships with other health professionals Learning outcomes for the award of: MSc Applied Vision Sciences (awarded when registration as an optometrist is not achieved), in addition to those listed above: A3. Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of the design and production of spectacle lenses and frames. A5. Undertake critical evaluation of research into optometry and vision sciences, translate theory into practice in a clinical setting and solve problems within a multi-professional team. B4. Undertake assessment, recognition, investigation and management of a range of refractive, visual and eye health related conditions and communicate effectively with all types of patients, carers as well as other healthcare professionals. B5. Use clinical tests, optical instrumentation and imaging technologies for the correction of vision as well as to detect, recognise, diagnose, prevent and manage refractive, oculomotor and sensory integrative conditions which present in an optometric practice. B6. Recognise, assess and create management plans related to adverse reactions of ophthalmic drugs, their safe use and supply, and adverse ocular reactions that may be induced by medical management of common systemic diseases.

8.2 Professional standards for students:

Link available here.