Examines how the curricula of optometry programs can be modified to prepare graduates to meet the needs of patients from special populations. Addresses student attitudes and the clinical encounter, including the case history, clinical examination, clinical decision making and determination of patient management plans, and case discussion of the…

A discussion of innovation in optometry instruction emphasizes the need for careful consideration of new methods and technologies and for a strategy for measuring the innovation's effect. The process of curriculum reform, role of pedagogy and technology in that process, and use of outcomes assessment to monitor change are examined. (MSE)

Discusses how the New England College of Optometry has expanded clinical education so graduates are equipped to handle new and advanced clinical and patient-care responsibilities and meet the changing standards of professional entry-level competency. The reform process, third- and fourth-year curriculum components, rotations, and plans for…

A national conference of colleges of optometry focused on planning for optometric curricular reform and faculty development. Issues addressed included changes needed to meet entry-level professional needs, available resources, changes in optometry practice, and optometry's role in health care reform. Task forces worked together to develop a…

The author argues that any new curricular model for optometric education must be responsive to evolving scientific and societal trends and consistent with the long-term goals of the profession. Some of these trends are outlined, including advancing technology and related improvement in health care and health care reform. (MSE)

The design and evaluation of an optometry practice management course at Hong Kong Polytechnic are described. The course includes lectures and small group projects on specific ethics and management topics. A survey of participants found they preferred group projects, with elements of peer teaching and seminar approaches, to traditional lectures.…

Discusses the status of optometric residency education, looking briefly at its history, accreditation, growth, comparison with other professions, program content and enrollment, use of residency as a qualification, entry-level competence, potential for program expansion, and financial resources and pressures. Concludes that much development of…

Educators in dentistry and osteopathy discuss efforts within their fields to diversify clinical education. Dental school changes focus on curriculum reform, closer education-care delivery relationship, patient centeredness, comprehensive care experiences, and patient care as a distinct mission of dental education. Efforts in osteopathy emphasize…