Module Definition Form (MDF)

Module Code: MOD002475 Version 2 Date amended 03/Aug/2009

1. Module Title
Low Vision Assessment and Management

2a. Module Leader 2b. Department 2c. Faculty

Julie Hughes Department of Vision and Faculty of Science and
Hearing Sciences Technology

3a. Level 3b. Module Type

5 Standard Module

4a. Credits 4b. Study Hours

15 150

5. Restrictions
Type Module Code Module Name Condition
Pre- MOD002486 Refractive Management AND
requisites: (Compulsory)
Co- None
requisites:
Exclusions: None
Courses to which this FOUNDATION DEGREE IN OPHTHALMIC
module is restricted DISPENSING

LEARNING, TEACHING AND ASSESSMENT INFORMATION

6a. Module Description
This module looks at the incidence and causes of low vision and their effects on vision. The term
"low vision" is defined clinically and legally together with other related terms.
Methods of assessment of the visual function are studied including the use of various testing
charts for distance and near, and the effects of illumination, contrast and glare. The significance
of the current refraction and methods of verification are explained.
The significance of visual field loss is examined and the effects of pathological conditions on the
visual field.
The estimation and assessment of magnification values for all distances, and the supply of
suitable optical and/or non-optical monocular and binocular appliances are discussed.
The module develops an understanding of the need for multi- and inter-disciplinary approaches
to the management and psychology of low vision, including arrangements for after-care and the
engagement of social services, support groups, specialist trainers and teachers.

6b. Outline Content

- Testing routine.
- Analysis of visual needs.
- Realising patients expectations.
- Selection of suitable appliances/aids.

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 6b. Outline Content (Continued)
- Training and support.
- Aftercare arrangements.

6c. Key Texts/Literature

Additional reading to support the module text:
1. Christine Dickinson, Low Vision Principles and Practice. Butterworth Heinemann 2003
2. Helen Farrall, Optometric Management of Visual Handicap. Blackwell 1991
3. Jayne MacNaughton, Eye Essentials: Low Vision Assessment. Elsevier 2005
4. Richard Brilliant, Essentials of Low Vision Practice. Butterworth Heinemann 1999
5. Paul Freeman and Randall Jose, The Art and Practice of Low Vision. Butterworth Heinemann
1997

Last Updated: 03/Aug/2009

6d. Specialist Learning Resources

1. Websites for the RNIB, Partially Sighted Society, Macular Disease Society, British Retinitis
Pigmentosa Society.
www.rnib.org.uk
www.eyeconditions.org.uk
www.brps.org.uk
2. BBC Radio 4 In Touch programme.

7. Learning Outcomes (threshold standards)

No. Type On successful completion of this module the student will be
expected to be able to:
1 Knowledge and Define and explain terms relating to low vision and its causes.
understanding
2 Knowledge and Relate assessment of the visual function to incidents of low vision.
understanding
3 Knowledge and Identify low vision appliances and discuss their use, benefits and
understanding limitations.
4 Intellectual, practical, Analyse patients expectations, assess a patient with low vision and
affective and recommend suitable appliances and aids and train a patient in their
transferable skills use.

8a. Module Occurrence to which this MDF Refers

Year Occurrence Period Location Mode of Delivery
2014/5 ZZF Template For Face to Face
Face To Face
Learning Delivery

8b. Learning Activities for the above Module Occurrence

Learning Hours Learning Details of Duration, frequency and other comments
Activities Outcomes
Lectures 6 hours of lectures and 31 hours of online support.
6 3 Residential component with continuous on-line
support.
Other teacher 31 3 6 hours of lectures and 31 hours of online support.

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 8b. Learning Activities for the above Module Occurrence (Continued)
Learning Hours Learning Details of Duration, frequency and other comments
Activities Outcomes
managed Residential component with continuous on-line
learning support.
Student
managed 113 1,2,4 & 5 Distance learning.
learning
TOTAL 150

9. Assessment for the above Module Occurrence

Assessment Assessment Learning Weighting (%) Fine Grade or Qualifying Mark
No. Method Outcomes Pass/Fail (%)
010 Examination 1-3 40 Fine Grade 40
Details: Examination: 1 hour.
MCQ format.
PSB requires a higher qualifying mark.
011 Coursework 4 60 Fine Grade 40
Details: Assignment: Maximum 2000 words.
PSB requires a higher qualifying mark.
In order to pass this module, students are required to achieve an overall mark of 40%.
In addition, students are required to:
(a) achieve the qualifying mark for each element of fine grade assessment as specified
above
(b) pass any pass/fail elements.

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