OPT001: Low Vision 1 - Theory

This module provides you with the comprehensive theoretical knowledge to prepare you to provide a high standard of low vision service in the primary care setting.

The knowledge taught extends beyond definitions and epidemiology of visual impairment and builds a theoretical understanding of the evidence-based management of low vision patients. The module also places low vision practice in the context of the wider multi-disciplinary team.

In studying this module you will develop your knowledge of holistic low vision care, which will enhance your existing clinical skillset and decision-making skills to allow you to provide a high standard of low vision care in a community optometry or hospital setting.

Start date	September and January
Duration	100 hours
Credits	10 credits - CET points available
Prerequisites	None
Module tutors	Marek Karas and Natalie Lucas
Tuition fees (2025/26)	£690 - Home students £1290 - International students
Tuition fees (2026/27)	£710 - Home students £1330 - International students
Module code	OPT001

Along with OPT002, this module is accredited by the College of Optometrists to provide the Professional Certificate in Low Vision.

Practitioners in the UK may be eligible to apply for an exemption from this module and begin at OPT002 if they have completed LOCSU Low Vision and case discussion coursework within the last three years.

There is no practical component to this module.

There are CPD points available on completion of applicable elements of the module.

Learning objectives

On completion of the module, you should be able to:

• Critically reflect on theoretical and practical knowledge related to low vision practice (ILO1)
• Evaluate up to date concepts in low vision rehabilitation and be able to apply them to challenges within your own environment and practice, examine and reflect on the benefit of inter-professional teamwork in the delivery of low vision rehabilitation (ILO2)
• Explore, critically analyse, synthesise and evaluate evidence-based literature, guidelines and underpinning theories in low vision rehabilitation and apply this knowledge to given scenarios, demonstrating how you would determine the most appropriate solutions for a patient with sight impairment (ILO3)
• Present balanced and informed arguments, incorporating critical judgment and decision making in written work, demonstrating intellectual curiosity and engagement in the pursuit of new knowledge and understanding (ILO4)

How the module will be delivered

This is a distance learning only module.  The module is taught via online lectures (Powerpoint with audio) and Xerte tutorials, delivered via Learning Central, the University’s e-learning system, with supporting resources and references supplied. Discussion boards accessed via Learning Central will provide a platform for you to discuss any questions or queries that come up throughout the term with both the course tutors and your peers.

There is an introductory webinar, and webinars on establishing and working with magnification.

The module map which outlines key activities and dates is available via the module on Learning Central.

Syllabus content

• Definitions of visual impairment and epidemiology of low vision
• Certification and Registration
• Effects of visual impairment on visual function, activities of everyday life and psychological wellbeing.
• Measuring visual acuity, contrast sensitivity and functional visual fields in low vision patients
• Measuring contrast sensitivity, refraction and visual fields in people with low vision
• Definition of magnification
• How to prescribe magnification
• Basic optics of the different types of magnifiers
• Consideration of uses, ergonomics, dexterity, field of view, magnification ranges and spectacle requirements when prescribing magnifiers
• Reducing glare in low vision patients
• Aids for peripheral visual field loss
• Making things bigger and improving contrast
• Lighting: general lighting, task lighting
• Sight substitution using sound and touch
• Braille and moon
• Computers and visual impairment, and non-optical aids
• Liaison with other professionals and services

Skills you will practise and develop

• Academic Skills
• Digital Skills
• Knowledge application
• Reflective practice
• Decision-making
• Effective Communication
• Independent and Critical Thinking

How the module will be assessed

Formative assessment will enable you to assess your progress:

• Interactive Key Feature Scenarios will allow you to explore patient management scenarios.
• An interactive case scenario will guide you through applying theory you have been taught to a clinical case in preparation for your written summative case coursework.

Summative assessments which contribute to your module mark:

• Written coursework (70%, approximately 1500 words). You will submit a written piece of coursework describing a detailed patient management scenario (ILO 1,2,3,4).
• Online test (30%, approximately 2 hours duration). You will answer questions including multiple answer, single best answer, ordering, hot spot and matching formats (ILO 1,2).

How to apply

Please contact our postgraduate team.