MSci. Optometry Programme Handbook BSc Hons Ophthalmic Dispensing - University ...
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MSci. Optometry Programme Handbook BSc
Hons Ophthalmic Dispensing
2020/2021
Marie-Laure Orr and Peter Black
School of Medicine
Please read this Handbook in conjunction with the University’s Student Handbook.
All Programme materials, lecture notes and other additional information related to your
Programme whether electronically or in hard copy, is the property of (and licensed to) UCLan.
It MUST not be distributed, sold, published, made available to others or copied other than for
your personal study use, unless you have gained written permission from the Dean of School.
This applies to the materials in their entirety and to any part thereof.
1
Contents
1. Welcome to the Programme ....................................................................................................................................... 3
1.1 Rationale, aims and learning outcomes of the Programme .................................................................................. 3
1.2 Programme Team .................................................................................................................................................. 8
1.3 Expertise of staff .................................................................................................................................................. 10
1.4 Academic Advisor ................................................................................................................................................ 10
1.5 Administration details.......................................................................................................................................... 10
1.6 Communication.................................................................................................................................................... 11
1.7 External Examiner ................................................................................................................................................ 12
2.1 Overall structure .................................................................................................................................................. 12
2.2 Modules available ................................................................................................................................................ 13
2.3 Programme requirements ................................................................................................................................... 15
2.4 Module Registration Options............................................................................................................................... 17
2.5 Study Time ........................................................................................................................................................... 18
2.5.1 Weekly timetable ................................................................................................................................... 18
2.5.2 Expected hours of study......................................................................................................................... 18
2.5.3 Attendance Requirements ..................................................................................................................... 19
3. Approaches to teaching and learning ........................................................................................................................ 21
3.1 Learning and teaching methods .......................................................................................................................... 21
3.2 Study skills............................................................................................................................................................ 23
3.3 Learning resources ............................................................................................................................................... 24
3.3.1 Learning Information Services (LIS) .............................................................................................................. 24
3.3.2 Electronic Resources ..................................................................................................................................... 24
3.4 Personal development planning .......................................................................................................................... 24
3.5 Preparing for your career .................................................................................................................................... 24
4. Student Support......................................................................................................................................................... 25
4.1 Academic Advisor ................................................................................................................................................ 26
4.2 Students with disabilities ..................................................................................................................................... 27
5. Assessment ................................................................................................................................................................ 28
5.1 Assessment Strategy ............................................................................................................................................ 28
5.2 Notification of assignments and examination arrangements ................................................................................. 28
5.3 Referencing .......................................................................................................................................................... 29
5.4 Confidential material ........................................................................................................................................... 29
5.4 Cheating, Plagiarism, Collusion or Re-presentation ............................................................................................ 30
6. Classification of Awards ............................................................................................................................................. 30
7. Student Feedback ...................................................................................................................................................... 30
7.1 Student Staff Liaison Committee Meetings (SSLCs)................................................................................................. 30
2
1. Welcome to the Programme Welcome to the School of Medicine and to the MSci. in Optometry programme. The School is part of the Faculty of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences at UCLan. It opens its doors to undergraduate vision science students for the first time in 2019. In addition to the School of Medicine, there is also a School of Dentistry and a School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences. The division of Vision Science is made up of academic and clinical professionals, technical, optometric and dispensing staff members. The staffing is overseen by the requirements of the General Optical Council (GOC). Research staff and support staff of the faculty are all dedicated in contributing to teaching across many of our Programme segments. The School of Medicine has state of the art teaching facilities and provides the necessary infrastructure for a modern work-based learning pathway. Vision Science is currently interwoven in the same building as the successfully developed School of Medicine and School of Dentistry. Our experience is that the excellent existing resources are shared both with this facility and with other health care science programmes located at the university. We are liaising with strong links to clinical centres in East Lancashire and the Bridgewater Community Trust, both of whom have long experience in providing educational experience to both medical and dental students. We have forged links with local charities that support people with visual impairment, patient representative groups, manufacturers, employers and local optical committees throughout the wider region. It is our aim for you to enjoy your studies within the School and that you have a positive and productive learning experience to enhance your career. There will be hard work ahead, that you will find interesting and challenging; we hope you will have the chance to enjoy yourself along the way. Good luck! Professor Cathy Jackson Head of School And the Vision Sciences Team 1.1 Rationale, aims and learning outcomes of the Programme The University is continually developing its medical and postgraduate programmes and the MSci. Optometry programme underpins and complements this development. 3
The MSci. Optometry award is a 5 year full-time blended learning programme which has been
developed to comply with the General Optical Council, The Association of British Dispensing Opticians
(ABDO) and College of Optometrists requirements (COO) http://www.GOC.co.uk,
https://www.abdo.org.uk/, https://www.college-optometrists.org/. It’s aims, content and learning
outcomes are mapped to meet the requirements described in the QAA Subject Benchmark, Optometry
2015 and the General Optical Council Core Competencies for Ophthalmic Dispensing and Optometry,
2015 and 2011 The first six semesters (three modules) will map against the requirements of the
Association of British Dispensing Opticians’ scheme for registration to register with the GOC as a
Dispensing Optician.
The MSci. Optometry curriculum has been developed by adopting a blended learning approach; this is
traditionally associated with other ophthalmic dispensing programmes where online distance learning
is supplemented by week-long blocks of attendance at UCLan. Work-based learning offers the
opportunity to embed the knowledge acquired into real world skills. It uses a spiral mode of delivering
concepts; basic levels are formed and later revisited in greater depth and with more clinical focus each
time. This "spiral curriculum" is used by many medical schools. It reinforces the need for lifelong
learning in medical practice with a need to constantly update knowledge and skills to provide the best
possible outcome for their future patients.
The programme places considerable emphasis on developing your expertise in a whole range
of practical areas, including ophthalmic dispensing, standards of practice, communication,
refraction, observation, management of vision and eye abnormalities, teamwork and
leadership. Both programmes have provisional approval from the GOC. This means that we
will have regular visits from the GOC to check on how the programmes are progressing; you
may be asked to attend meetings with the GOC visitor panels to discuss your experiences. The
full approval is given once the first cohort for each programme graduates. Whilst under
provisional approval, students recruited on to the programme are not guaranteed entry to the
GOC Register and may be required to undertake additional assessments through an alternative
GOC approved education provider in the event that any aspect of the programme when
delivered does not satisfy the GOC standards.
In line with all UCLan degree courses, the structure of the programme is modular. This is an intensive
five-year programme comprised of six modules over 12 semesters along with the pre-reg period:
List of modules and credit weighting
4Module Level Module Name Module Exit award on completion of
code credits module
OP1001 Level 4 Introduction to ophthalmic 120 Certificate of Higher Education
dispensing and optometric credits
practice
OP2002 Level 5 Further ophthalmic dispensing 120 Diploma of Higher Education in
and contact lenses Ophthalmic Dispensing
OP3001 Level 6 Advanced ophthalmic 120 Bachelor Honours Degree in
dispensing and Ophthalmic Dispensing
refractive management
OP4001 Level 7 Optometric principles and 90
management of vision
problems
OP4002 Level 7 Optometric principles and 90
management of eye health.
OP4003 Level 7 Evidence based Practice 60 MSci. In Optometry
Figure 1: Programme structure
We want you to enjoy the Programme and learn to be a professional Optometrist. You will be
performing diagnostic procedures, therapeutic services and delivering patient care as part of a
caregiving team. This begins by educating you to a very high standard in ophthalmic dispensing.
Students who exit the Programme before completing OP4003 receive the above awards. The same
flexibility applies in reverse in that we accept students onto the Programme at different stages,
accrediting prior educational and experiential learning to ensure and encourage a healthy learning
environment. In particular, we accept registered dispensing opticians directly into Module OP4001
subject to passing an entrance exam / interview and having suitable supervision in place.
The BSc. (Hons) Ophthalmic Dispensing can be awarded after completion of Module OP3001. Students
may then apply to sit Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) examinations to enable
registration with the General Optical Council (GOC) as a Dispensing Optician. Successful completion of
level 7 the awarding of the Integrated Master’s in Optometry, will coincide with your pre-registration
period; this will be through the College of Optometrists’ Scheme for Registration.
5This course includes work-based learning; the staff at the university and your mentor at work will provide you with support throughout the Programme. You are obliged to honour this agreement by working hard, following advice provided and adhering to suitable standards of behaviour and ethics as outlined by the GOC in accordance to the standards of practice for students (see appendix 2). Attendance at all taught lectures, tutorials, practical classes and clinics is essential. Being a health professional, it is very important that you do not do anything that might result in your “fitness to practise” being called into question – such as drugs, fraud, falsification of absence, bullying, assault, cheating, drink driving and inappropriate use of social media. Our patients must be able to trust and to be reassured about confidentiality. It is easy to forget that anything put on a social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp may end up anywhere and can result in disputes. You must not, under any circumstances, place images or information about any other student, or member of staff, on any form of network/media site without their full written consent. Similarly, at no time should any information relating to patients or placements be put on a social networking site or any other internet site even if you do not mention them specifically by name. Actions such as this would result in a “Fitness to Practise” investigation and may ultimately result in your studies being terminated. Aims of the Programme: Our aim is to produce students trained to the highest educational and clinical standards, who, when placed in a multi-professional setting can succeed in providing safe, quality patient care consistent with the competence framework for dispensing opticians and optometrists regulated by the GOC. Learning outcomes of the Programme: By completion of the MSci in Optometry programme, students will be able to: A. Knowledge and Understanding A1. Analyse written and verbal prescription information and convert to an appropriate optical appliance A2. Analyse the needs of anatomical facial features requiring special appliances / housings and take appropriate measurements A3. Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of the design and production of a spectacle lens and frames 6
A4. Apply their knowledge of critical scientific principles and concepts relevant to the practice of optometry in both primary and secondary care settings considering the expectations and responsibilities of a regulated healthcare profession A5. Undertake critical evaluation of research into optometry and vision sciences, translate theory into practice in a clinical setting and solve problems within a multi-professional team A6. Investigate and manage ocular and systemic disease to a level necessary to function as effective primary eye care practitioners. B. Subject-specific skills B1. Demonstrate practical knowledge of the fitting and aftercare of spectacles B2. Demonstrate theoretical knowledge of methods of assessing vision, refraction, binocular status and visual acuity in all patients B3. To dispense a wide range of optical appliances (spectacles, contact lenses and low vision aids) to patients taking into consideration the relevant standards, occupational visual standards and offer appropriate advice to patients based on compliance against these standards B4. Undertake assessment, recognition, investigation and management of a range of refractive, visual and eye health related conditions and communicate effectively with all types of patients, carers as well as other healthcare professionals. B5. Use clinical tests, optical instrumentation and imaging technologies for the correction of vision as well as to detect, recognise, diagnose, prevent and manage refractive, oculomotor and sensory integrative conditions which present in an optometric practice. B6. Recognise, assess and create management plans related to adverse reactions of ophthalmic drugs, their safe use and supply, and adverse ocular reactions that may be induced by medical management of common systemic diseases. C. Thinking Skills C1. Demonstrate appropriate study and transferable skills including time management, independent and group work, numeric and IT skills and oral and written communication. C2. Demonstrate appropriate laboratory expertise and report writing skills. 7
C3. Interpret findings from individualised patient consultations to determine the need for further investigations to make satisfactory diagnosis C4. Critically reflect data and subject related literature. C5. Recognise constraints in order to prioritise workload and resources, both in local organisations and the broader NHS, social care and public health arenas D. Other skills relevant to employability and personal development D1. Demonstrate skills of entrepreneurship, business and employment law whilst having a critical awareness of the context of market forces and the wider healthcare environment. D2. Demonstrate skills relating to of Health and Safety, Safeguarding and infection control in optical/primary care practice. D3. Know the professional standards related to an optical/primary care practice and be able to reflect on their own developing attitudes towards professional practice, lifelong learning and continuing professional development. D4. Demonstrate an understanding of professional conduct and the expectations placed on the GOC registrants laid in law, regulations and professional guidance. D5. Critically evaluate and review how their own practice contributes to the effectiveness of the clinical environment, incorporating equality, diversity, professionalism and probity D6. Communicate with teams, colleagues and patients in a manner that is respectful, efficient, effective and safe in all settings and maintaining effective working relationships with other health professionals. 1.2 Programme Team The Programme Team is made up of colleagues with expertise in teaching medical sciences alongside clinical academics from a range of different specialties. Head of School of Medicine Professor Cathy Jackson Email: cjackson19@uclan.ac.uk Principal Lecturer Rupal Lovell-Patel 8
Email: RLovell-Patel@uclan.ac.uk
Staff and Role
• Rupal Lovell-Patel, Academic Lead for Vision Sciences.
• Catherine Collin, Senior lecturer in Ophthalmic Dispensing and Optometry, Eye Health Clinic
Lead. Module leader for Module OP4002.
• Marie-Laure Orr, Senior lecturer in Ophthalmic Dispensing and Optometry, Course Leader for
Milestone 2 of the Programme and Module leader for Module OP4001.
• Peter Black, Senior Lecturer in Ophthalmic Dispensing and Optometry, Course Leader for
Milestone 1 of the Programme and Module leader for Module OP3001.
• Olaug Grude, Lecturer in Ophthalmic Dispensing and Optometry
• Haleema Younas, Lecturer in Ophthalmic Dispensing and Optometry, Module leader for
Module OP1001.
• Caroline Chambers, Lecturer in Ophthalmic Dispensing and Optometry, Module leader for
Module OP2001
Further details of additional members of the Programme Team and academic staff in the School of
Medicine can be found at: UCLan School of Medicine
Your time in practice and in clinical teaching areas at UCLan will be supplemented by placements and
experience in other settings as appropriate to your studies.
Whilst on clinical placements, you will be supervised by practising clinical staff, with any day-to-day
issues regarding your placement being dealt with by the local staff at the institution in which you are
placed. Whilst on placement, local clinical staff will provide teaching in a wide range of settings such
as binocular vision and paediatrics, therapeutic contact lenses, ocular disease, specialist techniques
used in Hospital eye service to assess patients.
It is advised to incorporate specific environments such as low vision clinics and sight loss support
centres, specialist clinics and ward rounds, as appropriate, to enable fulfilment of your learning
objectives.
You will attend teaching at UCLan campus sites during each placement block. Sessions will be staffed
by a mix of UCLan faculty and practising clinicians such as optometrists, dispensing opticians, contact
lens opticians, consultant ophthalmologists, orthoptists, speciality doctors, other healthcare experts
9and members of industry. Campus sites include the Preston Eye Health Care Clinic and the Medical Education Centre. 1.3 Expertise of staff The Programme Team comprises of highly experienced clinicians, academics and scientists who provide the academic and scientific Programme content. Clinical supervision is provided by experienced clinical staff with a proven track record in the successful use of clinical techniques and approaches in the primary and secondary care environment. Further details about the qualifications, clinical experience and current research interests of our staff can be found at: School of Medicine Staff 1.4 Academic Advisor On commencement of the Programme you will be assigned an Academic Advisor from the Vision sciences team. Your Academic Advisor is there to give guidance and support, to liaise with other staff regarding student related issues and to serve as a resource for clinical supervisors, mentors and students. Throughout the year you will meet with your academic advisor on at least 2 occasions to discuss clinical and theoretical progress and pastoral issues They will be the first point of call for many of the questions that you might have during the year. Your Academic Advisor will be able to help you with personal development, including developing skills in self-awareness, reflection and action planning. As part of your work-based learning there will be a mentor at the place of work, which will also play an important role in support (more details are available in the students’ information pack and the mentor’s guide). 1.5 Administration details Campus Admin Services (CAS) provides academic administration support for students and staff and are located in the following hubs which open during term time from 8.45am until 5pm Monday to Thursday and until 4.00pm on Fridays. The hub can provide general assistance and advice regarding specific processes such as extenuating circumstances, extensions and appeals. Greenbank Building Medicine, Dentistry, Vision Science, School of Business and Enterprise telephone: 01772 891998 email: GreenbankHub@uclan.ac.uk Room number GR006. 10
If you get in touch always specify your name and course you are enrolled on to allow allocated staff to help you accordingly. 1.6 Communication The University expects you to use your UCLan email address and check regularly for messages from staff. If you send us email messages from other addresses, they risk being filtered out as potential spam and discarded unread. The Programme team will communicate via Blackboard. For some parts of the modules team work is required and Microsoft teams is the preferred mode of communication. Some of these platforms will be anonymous to encourage freedom of speech and no presumptions being made. Under no circumstances is abuse tolerated on these sites we encourage conversation as a form of learning, students are fully responsible and accountable for their posts/actions. Appointments with for example your Academic Advisor can be accessed via Starfish. Together with the Student Handbook, you will receive other relevant study guides, which will be placed in the Student Office on Blackboard. Over the duration of your Programme, we will also send out regular emails related to Programme issues and events within the School. Your timetable of UCLan scheduled activity can be accessed via the Blackboard Student Portal: Unfortunately, on occasion, we may have to cancel lectures at short notice because of staff illness etc. If there is a late cancellation, we will endeavour to inform you by e-mail, Blackboard announcements and arrange an alternative lecture. If any lateness or cancellation looks evident, please check your email for related correspondence as this is usually the most efficient way for staff to communicate these urgent changes. Emails will normally be sent from the GreenbankHub@uclan.ac.uk and students are requested to use this email address when corresponding with the Greenbank Hub. We endeavour to reply to emails within two working days, but students should be aware that at busy times such as assessment board periods this may not always be possible. Students may call in to the Greenbank Hub between the times stated above. Also teaching staff may email directly to you and are happy to receive correspondence from you with the aim of responding within three working days. Please also keep an eye on Blackboard. This tends to be used for keeping students up to date regarding general events and news items. 11
1.7 External Examiner We are pleased to have the following external examiners appointed: Dr. Hetal Buckhurst. Optometrist from Plymouth University Julie Lees. Dispensing Optician from ABDO Dr. Amy Sheppard. Optometrist from Aston University 2. Structure of the Programme 2.1 Overall structure Figure 2: Programme Structure 1b The 12-semester based, full time Integrated Master of Science Optometry programme at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) offers a unique and accessible qualification with several exit and entry points giving flexibility to you to leave the Programme part way through with meaningful certification of study and the ability to return to your studies later. The programme runs across a total of 4.5 12
calendar years. The programme is set out as full time with block release sessions and work based learning. Please refer to section 1.1 for further details. 2.2 Modules available Each module is a self-contained block of learning with defined aims, learning outcomes and assessment. The first three modules are worth 120 credits each. It equates to the learning activity expected from a full-time undergraduate year. The last three Modules vary in credit load to represent the master’s degree of a total of 240 credits. The programme has the scheme of registration interwoven at the end of the programme making it an integrated Master of Science. Please consult figure 3 below for intended content of all six modules. 13
Figure 3: Career ladder model of the programme 14
The Programme Specification which details the programme and modules in more depth is available as a link in Appendix 8.1. 2.3 Programme requirements All students undertaking this Programme must be registered with the General Optical Council (see Applying for registration/Students). You are bound by the Code of Conduct as specified by GOC student standard of practice GOC's standards-for-optical-students.cfm Appendix 8.2 and subject to the UCLan procedure for the consideration of Fitness to Practise and Regulations for the Conduct of Students: which can be accessed via Regulations for the Conduct of Students. As part of the University’s commitment to all students there are university wide regulations, policies and codes of conduct, which are designed to protect your rights as a student and maintain academic quality e.g. Uclan students support policy Within this framework of policies, it is important that you know these policies exist and what their relevance are for your studies at UCLan. During your induction there is only so much we can show you; it is up to you to take the time to view these policies to ensure you understand the university’s aim to provide a safe and fair study environment. You will have to sign a university Contract and all regulations and policies associated with this is accessible at: student contract. You are required to complete an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for any time that you have resided in the UK from the age of 13 to verify that you have no criminal record. The CAS Hub will create an DBS application for all students. This will generate an email to you. You will need to bring original documents to complete the registration process in “Induction week”. A session to do this is scheduled during induction week. Further information regarding DBS checks can be found at the following website. To enter the first of three 120 credit modules, you are required to work in an optical practice and to be committed to acquiring the necessary knowledge for ophthalmic dispensing, underpinning scientific knowledge and optics. If you are not proficient in a particular subject area and fail the formative assessment for the module you will not be allowed to progress further without retaking. The university can offer support if you are having difficulties (see section on student support). This group of three modules form MILESTONE 1 see figure 3 and should take 2 calendar years. 15
The first three modules, taken over 6 semesters (two calendar years), are akin to a traditional 3-year blended learning ophthalmic dispensing programmes; this can lead to Fellowship of the British Association of Dispensing Opticians (FBDO) and registration as a Dispensing Optician by successfully passing their external exam. This exam requires the student to register with our colleagues from ABDO whilst undertaking the first three modules. We encourage this registration from the start of our programme; however, it your own responsibility to ensure ABDO registration and supervision requirements are met all through Milestone 1. Students are affected by the ABDO’s requirements in terms of practice visits, logbook and hours worked in practice. Students who pass their ABDO exams and who carry on with the programme will simultaneously be working as a registered Dispensing Optician and as a student Optometrist. Admission to module OP4001 leading to MSci. Optometry, requires the applicant to have had a minimum of one year on the Dispensing Opticians register and to be working in an optical practice in the UK. There will be an entrance exam for the assessment of prior learning as the Milestone 1 content will have been studied elsewhere. For those students who progress at UCLan from Milestone 1 to Milestone 2 no such exam is required. Further, module OP3001 needs to have been completed and passed before progressing to module OP4001. Students during Milestone 1 of the programme will be mentored by a dispensing optician, an optometrist or a contact lens optician. The practice base learning supervisor role (see ABDO handbook provided at registration to ABDO as a supervisor/student) is an arrangement which will be orchestrated by the colleagues at ABDO with whom we have a close relation in view of administrative requirements and educational workload. Effectively, we ask your employer, or a member of the team, to become a mentor to make sure your day to day university related workload is managed properly. If your colleague wishes to supervise, as well as mentor, you will have to register this with ABDO as a practice supervisor. The UCLan mentor title can stay with the same person as you progress during your study into the optometry modules, Milestone 2, if the mentor is an optometrist. Modules OP4001 to 6 (semesters 7 to 12) consisting of 90 and 60 credits spanning over another 2.5 years; You must be mentored by a registered optometrist, as you progress towards Programme completion. 16
Throughout the entire programme, you will be working full time in practice, studying extensively in your own time, and attending mandatory block release weeks at University. The vision sciences staff are arranging day placements which will be organised mostly during block release. The placements would be at a variety of locations such as a sight care charity or glazing manufacturer. Block release run over 5 days (Mon-Fri); currently 2 weeks per semester in modules 1-3 and 3 to 4 weeks per semester in modules 4 and 5. During Milestone 2 if you have poor attendance, you will not be able to attain your “safe patient episodes” outlined by the GOC and it will be necessary to schedule an extra week in the university Eye health clinic (please note that the team can only offer limited catch up slots in the Eye Health clinic and if it appears that you are going to struggle to meet the GOC patient requirements, you may have to consider the option to withdraw or intermit). In semester 7 to 10, one and a half calendar years (Module OP4001 &OP4002), the focus for you is on building your clinical experience by spending equivalent of two days per week observing in Optometric Practice throughout your studies. Semester 11 to 12 (Module OP4003), are a nominal six months with only 60 credits but will extend to a year (based on progress with the Scheme for Registration). The focus for you here is on building their clinical expertise as well as evidence-based research. You will acquire the knowledge to find, appraise and evaluate the best evidence from research. Module OP4003 will coincide with the College of Optometrists Scheme for Registration. At this point the mentor can also be nominated to become a supervisor for this period; appropriate registration with the College of Optometrists (COO) will be required. See document “COO Scheme for Registration handbook” College-optometrists, Qualifying, scheme-for-registration handbook As you move into the Scheme for Registration, your employment contract will need to be changed. It is YOUR responsibility to ensure that your employment status and relevant contracts are in place before you progress into the Scheme for Registration. All modules within the five-year MSci. programme are compulsory and a minimum 90% attendance is a requirement. There are no principles of compensation offered. Similarly, all required elements of assessment must be successfully completed for the module to be passed. 2.4 Module Registration Options You will follow the online registration pathway to enquire about registration for either Module OP1001 or Module OP4001. Module OP1001 is open to all staff working in a UK optical establishment. Direct 17
entry to Module OP4001 is open for any dispensing optician (D.O.) working in practice having been registered as a D.O. for at least one year with the GOC. During the entire program, discussions about your progression normally takes place after each module or during the last block release of the Modules. Official exam results are communicated via the student record system (Banner). In February and September of each year (i.e. end of semester one from each Module) there is an opportunity for you to make plans for your study over the next academic year. The Programme team will tell you about the next module available and you will both agree on the most appropriate (and legal) Programme for you. All modules in each year are compulsory, and the assessments of each module must be passed to enable progression to the next module of the Programme. The award of MSci. Optometry requires successful completion of all OP1001 – OP4002 modules including the 60-credit research module OP4003 during the pre-registration period. 2.5 Study Time 2.5.1 Weekly timetable A timetable will be available once you have enrolled onto the programme, through the Student Portal. There will be weeks of block release during this time you will be taught on site within the School of Medicine. Four weeks for modules OP1001-OP3001 and six weeks for module OP4001 and OP4002. During OP4003 you will need to submit work online. There is no block release in OP4003; however, you are affected by the College of Optometrists’ requirements in terms of practice visits and hours worked in practice. 2.5.2 Expected hours of study The University regulations on credits nominate that 1 credit equals to 10 notional learning hours. Although the teaching hours can be found on the timetable in Blackboard, the module descriptor and in the module guides; you may find that they are working above these hours in order to successfully complete the Programme (depending on your learning style). Many lectures, workshops and placement activities require preparatory work prior to attendance and this must be completed. You should also expect to read more widely to aid your understanding of a subject and to test your understanding regularly. Each week you are required typically to study 16 hrs. 18
For example, OP1001 to OP3001 require around 20 formative work assignments completed using the online learning platform. A typical weekly assignment will involve 2 topics each comprising 6 hours of directed learning and 8 hours of independent study, plus one hour to reflect on previous work / formative assessment. And one hour set aside for discussion with the practice supervisor. 16 hours total study time per week on top of working full time. Additionally, there will be substantial independent study required to prepare portfolio case records and pre-coursework preparation. The Blackboard virtual learning environment will be used to deliver these weekly learning units. Formative assessment by way of regular feedback from the academic tutor during module OP1001OP3001 and online Multiple-Choice Questionnaire’s during module OP4001 & OP4002 are instrumental to the learning process as is the involvement from the work-based Mentor from an early stage. You will be working a minimum of 30 hours a week in practice, under supervision, during the first three modules. You will then reduce to 3 days a week for module OP 4001 and OP4002. During your pre- registration period the working hours will increase again as you will be working as a Pre-Registration Optometrist (employment contract will need to be changed). Please refer to module descriptors for specific guidance on taught and self-directed study and bear in mind that the greater input from yourself the easier you will find it keeping up with the demanding pace and achieve higher standards. 2.5.3 Attendance Requirements You are required to attend all timetabled learning activities. Requests for authorised absence must be made to your academic advisor in advance. Authorised absence will not normally be granted where the absence will adversely impact on student attendance and/or education. This may result in students being unable to attend family functions, external events, paid or voluntary activity. We advise students to plan extra-curricular activities and travel with this in mind. There is a Student Attendance and Retention Monitoring system at UCLan (SAM) which is located on entry of each room and it is imperative you only scan in those rooms that you enter. Scanning your ID card in without entering the room is viewed as a breach of contract and does not only bring your integrity into dispute it shows poor professionalism. The Greenbank Hub also manages a process for ID cards that will not scan or are lost/forgotten. You must complete a form (signed by the tutor) and submit to the Greenbank Hub. 19
Please note all international student’s responsibilities under the Visas and Immigration (UKVI) Points Based System (PBS) - you MUST attend your Programme of study regularly; under PBS, UCLan is obliged to tell UKVI if you withdraw from a Programme, defer or suspend your studies, or if you fail to attend the Programme regularly. No holidays or leave to go home may be booked during term time. The administration of attendance is undertaken by the Student Immigration and Compliance Team (SICT). You can check your attendance record through UCLan Blackboard and staff can access this information through starfish. Sharing your attendance information with your employers is important for your integrity as they are sponsoring your place on this Programme. Study days typically start at 09:00 and end at 16:00 although it often is required that you attend outside of these hours, especially until 18.00 and to plan for this will help greatly in dealing with unplanned situations. A detailed timetable of study days will be made available during your induction day on the programme. You should be prepared to be available from 08:00-19:00 during the block sessions. The academic year is planned to start in September, when other university students commence. Students will be working, attending lectures and residential blocks for up to 47 weeks per year. Absence It is an expectation and requirement that you attend all scheduled activities in all areas of your study: clinical skills sessions, tutorials, seminars, lectures and placement activity. Any non-attendance (regardless of the reason for the absence) will be recorded. Notification of absence (including illness) from any part of the Programme of study, any examination or placement period must be notified to the Greenbank Hub Attendance 01772 891998; NOT by email to GreenbankHubattendance@uclan.ac.uk, by no later than 09.00hrs on the day in question. You should notify GreenbankHubattendance@uclan.ac.uk with your return date so that university records can be kept up to date and you must complete a Sickness Absence form, available from Greenbank Hub reception GR006. Absence through illness for periods longer than five consecutive days must also be supported by a medical certificate authorised by a medical practitioner and should be submitted to the Greenbank Hub Reception. 20
Absence when on Clinical Placement When on clinical Placement, notification of absence (including illness) needs to be reported to your clinical supervisor (or other allocated person) on the 1st day of absence/sickness, via a personal telephone call. It is also necessary for you to notify Greenbank Hub attendance on 01772 891998. It should be noted that a minimum of 90% attendance is a requirement for this Programme. If you are unable to meet that requirement due to ill health or for any other reason should make an appointment with your Academic Supervisor or Pastoral Tutor in the first instance. If you have not gained the required authorisation for leave of absence, do not respond to communications from the University or if you are absent for two weeks or more, you may be deemed to have withdrawn from the Programme. If this is the case, then the date of withdrawal will be recorded as the last day of attendance. In addition, should you wish to speak with a member of the University Wellbeing Team, who consist of a range of dedicated advisors who are specialists in Counselling, Inclusive Support, Mental Health & Wellbeing, please see information found on the Student Wellbeing webpage, or by visiting the on the ground floor of the Main Campus Library. You can find further information on UCLan’s attendance policy at www.uclan.ac.uk/sam. 3. Approaches to teaching and learning 3.1 Learning and teaching methods The Programme is offered as blended learning in an optical practice and using this experience with academic study to evolve as a professional academically, technically and clinically. A variety of teaching and learning methods are used throughout the Programme. In the early stages of the Programme, teaching staff will guide your learning, but also expect you to develop the skills for self-directed education through reflection and independent learning. As you progress you will be expected to have started the journey of “lifelong learning” and as with all health professionals, take considerable responsibility for directing your own learning in addition to seeking assistance from staff for further guidance. Our aim in the first turn of the curriculum spiral establishes a link between your current knowledge, skills and attitudes, and the requirement for you to become independent lifelong learners, able to meet the professional challenges. You will be introduced to the fundamentals of optical science and begin to develop the skills that are essential for optical students. During the subsequent turns of the spiral, the modules take an integrated approach to the eye, examining normal structure and function, how 21
disease processes affect the eye, adnexa and brain. The mechanism of action of drugs used to treat ocular and systemic disease. The latter stages the Programme encourages clinical decision making and thinking in relation to evidence-based research. At the first stage of the Programme, you will all have different experiences and whilst some scenarios will be common, you will be expected to take every opportunity to increase your knowledge and experience whilst in practice and clinical settings, rather than always waiting to be given direction. Teaching in the first three years will be based on the blended learning concept, which involves block release on campus sessions and distance learning, whilst working under a mentor within your place of work. The aim is to guide you and ensure that the work environment is set up for further development and learning at all times. Supervision is needed if you want to obtain dispensing opticians registration and it will need to be organized by you and ABDO (see mentor’s guide for further information). Teaching will be supported by online resources available to all students accessed through the virtual learning environment: Blackboard (student log in required) and a variety of online materials (recorded lectures, videos, discussions). You will be able to contact your academic advisor in timetabled virtual office hour sessions via Starfish. These times will be made clear to you by your academic advisor on induction. A mixture of practical skills acquisition, small group work, case-based learning, inter- professional learning and “flipped classroom” teaching will be set on block release. This will be supported by discussions of the set work and more traditional lectures. Face to face workshops, tutorials, group work (problem-based/case scenario-based team learning) and practical skills labs (during the block session at the University) will ensure application of knowledge. Access to specialist skills labs and the Eye Clinic at the university will aid in developing the clinical and practical skills needed to be an eye care health professional. Supervised eye examination experience in the Eye clinic will provide an excellent learning environment along with attendance at specialist/ hospital clinics regionally. You will also be expected to keep a portfolio, which you will use to log all your experiences, reflections and work place-based learning/achievements. Formative feedback and independent study will further integrate the skills via the optical practice where you work whilst studying. For detailed requirements on case records and word counts please see individual module information packs and module descriptors. Skills and knowledge acquisition and understanding will be demonstrated by the successful completion of the range of assessment embedded within the programme. Assessment will be conducted in a range of ways including: 22
Assessment Formative Summative Closed book examinations Practical examinations Practical assessment of clinical competence Problem solving exercises Student presentations Data analysis The modes of assessment employed is tailored to the knowledge and understanding requirements of the module. This will in turn reflect the level of delivery and the expectations of you. You will progressively integrate your understanding of ophthalmic dispensing and optometry and will reflect this understanding in the completion of your assessment. 3.2 Study skills The Programme team supports your development and provides guidance for your independent study to help you develop as an autonomous learner. Study skills are part of the induction within your first module OP1001. You will acquire many study skills at different stages of your development; a great way to find help is through accessing WISER. You can access WISER and various other Library resources such as Linkedin learning (UCLan student login required) to learn how to study more effectively and communicate at a professional level. WISER offers 1-to-1 support, interactive workshops and online study advice, so that you can reach your full potential and achieve the grades you deserve. Other recommended resources will be signposted via Blackboard. Staff are encouraged to make sure individual students needs are met within their individual academic advisor’s role. Below is an example of the different Programmes available online, in and around campus for all UCLan students and offered free of charge. http://www.uclan.ac.uk/research/study/student_training.php 23
3.3 Learning resources 3.3.1 Learning Information Services (LIS) Generic information is included in the Student Handbook. You will be encouraged to view professional journals such as: Optometry Today, Optician and College of Optometrist websites as you can register for student memberships. LIS provide resources and support particularly relevant for this Programme, such as subject guides or access to on-line databases? Please contact your subject liaison officer Julie Brand. If you would like more information on library services available please use this link : Library services before contacting the subject librarian. 3.3.2 Electronic Resources Material will be available from Blackboard. We will be using MS Teams, Skype or Adobe Connect to liaise with you on a regular basis. Generic information is included in the module information packs. 3.4 Personal development planning The Meditrek e-portfolio that you will use will have a tracking system to show you which tasks are completed, and which still need to be achieved. Your registration with the professional organisations will enable you to access a world of resources. The induction process will introduce continuing education and professional development. Most of you have chosen to progress in your line of work to become a qualified professional and with this a statutory requirement to comply with yearly minimum required amount of Continuing Education and Training. 3.5 Preparing for your career UCLan has a great Careers department offering ongoing advice, guidance, drop in sessions and online careers support/resources. Members of the Career team have developed a career EDGE which looks at: Development Learning; Experience (Work & Life); Degree Subject knowledge, Understanding & Skills; Generic Skills; and Emotional Intelligence. As a UCLan student, you will have access to it online and at least during one of the distance learning blocks (in module OP1001 and OP3001 and again in module OP4001). Additional preparation for block release and learning within your place of work is your responsibility. If you feel your place of work is unable to provide you sufficient support, it is your responsibility to notify your work-based mentor to find a solution. This can be escalated to your tutor if options are insufficient. 24
As this is a new programme of delivery, especially when starting Module OP4001, it is imperative that
close liaisons are kept between all parties. Our experiences from other modes of delivering optometry
tuition is that optometry has a high percentage of successful graduate employment. What is unique
about this scenario is that you will be working whilst learning the profession, theory and clinical skills
needed for a successful career in Optics. Experiencing the university environment whilst on block
release will support your learning and knowledge gained. Communication and empathy are key to the
optical professional; the experience is open to development the moment you step into the profession.
4. Student Support
The is the university’s one-stop Student Information Centre. This service is on the ground floor of
the Library and is where students can seek help on a range of queries. It provides help on all aspects of
University life, via face-to-face and Email: thei@uclan.ac.uk
Twitter:@theiuclan
Facebook www.facebook.com/uclanthei.
Furthermore it is accessible via: students library-it, the i
Academic support and guidance can be offered by Greenbank Hub. The staff can signpost you to the
person best qualified to deal with your query, whether that is another UCLan service, an academic
member of staff or the Students’ Union.
UCLan offers care leavers support; this service offers a range of support and services to help all students
away from their families.
If you are looking for a friendly atmosphere, advice, information or personal support, you will find them
at the University’s Multi-Faith Centre. The Centre exists to encourage people in the pursuit and
development of their faith and to promote understanding and respect amongst members of different
beliefs.
We understand that at different stages of your university life you may need different types of support
and advice depending on your own individual needs.
The Student Mentoring Service is UCLan’s centralised mentoring service. We organise 1-to-1 and e-
mentoring support, advice and guidance for students. You can register for a mentor either before you
arrive or when you get here.
The Wellbeing team offer support to students in crisis or who are facing a difficult time at present. This
can include, but isn’t limited to, addiction, homelessness, sexual assault, domestic violence, finance,
25accommodation issues, halls and bullying. We offer practical support and can make referrals to services
internal and external to UCLan.
The Counselling Service at UCLan is staffed by a team of professionally trained and experienced
professionals. We offer a free, confidential service to all registered UCLan students throughout the
year (except during short periods over the Christmas and Easter breaks). Whatever your difficulty you
are welcome and will be treated with respect.
UCLan has a dedicated inclusive support team that and fully committed to enabling access to all
individuals who seek to benefit from our educational activities. The aims of the inclusive support team
are to strive to remove any barriers for those with disabilities as far as possible, to ensure that we
provide an inclusive environment and that we address any areas of under-representation or barriers
to access, retention, satisfaction or success where they may be found. If you have a disability you
should read 4.2 of this document as it outlines what the General Optical Council requirements are in
terms of disabilities.
Mental health Advisors offer short-term support and can advise you if you experience mental health
difficulties. They offer assessment appointments, advice and will signpost you to services to best meet
your needs.
The Pre-school Centre is part of the Student and Academic Support Service and is located in a purpose
built single storey building with an enclosed outside play area.
We want you to enjoy this programme and your UCLan experience and would recommend to regularly
visit the news and event site.
4.1 Academic Advisor
You will be given the name of their academic advisor at Induction in the Introduction
Week and details of where and when to attend during the year will be placed
Blackboard. Appointments will be made via Starfish.
Your Academic Advisor is responsible for the formal meetings which take place at a minimum of twice
a year (once a semester). During these meetings you are required to bring your Meditrek e portfolio
and any academic feedback.
There is no mandatory requirement for the UCLan tutor/clinic Supervisor and work-based mentor to
communicate with each other, but if your progress is raising any cause for concern then it is highly
recommended that they should do so. You have a responsibility as part of you contract with the
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