Students are placed in full-time Supervised Ophthalmic Dispensing Practice with an experienced registered dispensing optician or optometrist from September to May in their final year. During this period students develop the ability and confidence to participate in and contribute to the successful operation of an optical practice. Students will develop a clear understanding of structures within a practice and the role, duties and responsibilities of the ophthalmic dispensing opticians.
The emphasis of the supervised practice period will be on the achievement of core competencies and proficiencies which underpin the practice of ophthalmic dispensing. These competencies and proficiencies are outlined in the placement handbook and may be modified in keeping with changes in optical dispensing practice.
A College ophthalmic dispensing tutor will visit the practice at least twice during the supervised practice period. Students will return to the College for review of their progress at least twice during the academic year.
The aim of the Supervised Practice is that students will practise and refine the techniques taught at the Institute, but in the “real world” situation of a practice rather than in the laboratory.
Students agree to abide by the CORU code of conduct while on placement.
All aspects of ophthalmic dispensing will be covered during the period of supervision. Students will apply concepts, skills acquired during the first two years of programme in the domains of Professional Autonomy and Accountability, Communication, Collaborative Practice and Team-working, Safety and Quality processes, Professional Development and Professional Knowledge and Skills. Students will prove themselves competent dispensing opticians in the areas of communication, professional conduct, dispensing of optical appliances to both adults and children. Students will apply their knowledge of ocular examination, refractive management, low vision and contact lenses in patient care as part of their role as dispensing opticians.
The number and types of dispensing tasks that the students should attain while on placement are defined in the placement handbook.
Students will post five reflective blogs online while on placement and students will also comment on their peers’ blogs.
Seminars, reflection and reflective blogs, case studies, patient episodes in under supervision, mentoring, virtual learning environment.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 100 |