This core module develops scientific knowledge relating to the neurological and perceptual processes of visual function with particular emphasis on how individuals assimilate and process information from their surroundings. It provides a clear understanding of the psychophysics of the visual processes, helping students become familiar with clinical psychophysical techniques and tests, linking theory with clinical skills practiced in primary eye care (PEC) clinics 1 and 2. This module further develops student’s understanding of developing and ageing of vision. Students’ competency in assessing colour vision and communication skills will also be developed. through scenario based learning (SBL).
- Normal colour discrimination-Types and characteristics of colour vision defects.
- Principles and designs of colour vision tests- Red/Green and Blue/Yellow colour defects.
- Physiological basis for hereditary and acquired colour vision defects and genetics
- Colour vision assessment techniques for adults and children
- Communication of results of colour vision defects using group work and scenario based learning (SBL)
Retinal directional sensitivityMotion perception- Electrophysiology of vision: Single cell neurophysiology: retina, lateral geniculate nucleus, visual cortex.
- Cortical organization and visual areas. Parvo- and magno-cellular pathways and relevance to clinical tests in optometric practice.
- Columnar and retinotopic organization of the visual cortex and relevance to clinical tests and implications for amblyopia.
- The neurological basis of stereopsis.
- Modern technologies in neurophysiology: Optical coherence tomography and angiography, visually evoked (gross) responses: RSP, EOG, ERG,VECP.
- Brain imaging and vision.
- Development and aging of visual functions. The critical period.
Introductory visual psychology: perceptual learning and adaptation, illusions, afterimages, visual constancies
Lectures, laboratories, tutorials, self-directed learning, Scenario-based learning (SBL), Group project work, Peer assessment, Presentations, Roleplay scenarios.E-learning.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 60 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 40 |