The author traces the history of optometric vision training and its influences on academic performance and presents his views on the current controversy over the value of vision training for students with learning disabilities. He concludes with a list of approximately 50 references on the topic. (CL)

An interview with the new president of the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry, John Schoessler, considers issues the president wishes to focus on during his presidency, changes in optometry students over the years, people who influenced his educational ideas, and research currently being conducted at Ohio State University College of…

It is important for teachers to understand both their eye care needs and the services offered in the eye care market in order to make intelligent decisions regarding their own needs. (LH)

Some insights from cognitive science that can be applied to professional education, particularly those relating to sources of dissonance in the traditional, linear educational model, are examined. They concern primarily the availability of information for clinical thinking and problem solving. Curricular structures facilitating implementation of…

Changes in the current health care system impacting upon optometry and optometric care are highlighted including changes in health care organizations and delivery, emerging concepts in health care, and changes in optometry and optometric care. (JMF)

The full-cost tuition plan in effect at Southern College of Optometry is discussed including education cost per student and contributions from federal, state, and regional sources. (JMF)

The strength of the optometric profession lies in its members. Optometric education should include training in the use of the language, both for understanding and to prevent misunderstanding, and should emphasize values and ethics. (MSE)

The Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry's Gerontology Curriculum Development Committee summarizes the results of a survey of institutional practice and presents its recommendations for implementing a comprehensive optometric gerontology curriculum at each member institution. (MSE)

Mandatory continuing education is found to be generally inexpensive, not detracting from practice time, undertaken for a variety of positive reasons, and worthwhile for upgrading skills. Many states are increasing continuing education requirements as a means of increasing professional accountability. (MSE)

This report by the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry identifies desired attributes of students graduating from schools and colleges of optometry. Introductory information includes information on the report's development and assumptions. Personal and professional attributes are then listed followed by a list of 10 knowledge-area…

Advances have been made in testing optometrists' clinical skills, particularly with the use of simulation techniques. Further research into these techniques will probably receive the most attention, although a shift in research emphasis from correlational studies of test validity and reliability to test development studies is needed. (MSE)

Examines optometric education and training in developing nations, especially in Africa where the need for eye care has driven many non-optometrists into eye care delivery. Suggests that a system allowing multiple entry and exit points en route to becoming an optometrist provides a range of service delivery options that make best use of personnel…

Methods for reevaluating student admission, clinical preparation, and clinical performance evaluation in optometric education are suggested. (MSE)

The use of standardized course syllabi and behavioral objectives requires the commitment and acceptance of faculty and administrators, but it can also help schools of optometry establish standards for evaluating students and improving instructional quality. Classroom, laboratory, and clinical instruction all lend themselves to writing clear…

Twenty-nine Alabama optometric practices were studied using an optometrist survey, one-week patient flow analysis, and audit of patient records. Results indicate some special facets of the rural practices that may require a different kind of educational preparation. (MSE)