Bachelor of Optometry

Health Sciences and Social Services - Promotive Health and Developmental Services

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Purpose and Rationale

The primary purpose of this qualification is to provide qualifying learners with the ability to:

Perform visual examinations and relevant procedures included in the scope of optometry, in the clinical environment as a qualified optometrist.
Perform visual examinations and appropriate procedures included in the scope of optometry in non-clinical environments such as hospitals, community and health care centres, old-age homes, schools, industrial sites, and other centres.
Display skills in experimental science disciplines, as well as accurate and efficient handling of optometric instrumentation.
Make diagnoses by means of critical reasoning and after careful consideration of influencing factors, develop a holistic management strategy.
Apply theoretical knowledge as well as insight when non-typical or extraordinary cases present in the clinical situation.
Reflect on decision-making and management criteria.

Outcomes

Make a diagnosis on the visual abilities of the patient, by means of critical reasoning and after careful consideration of influencing factors, develop a holistic management strategy.
Work in a team with peers, supervisors and lecturers.
Reflect on self-management skills in terms of time-administrative and organisational management.
Collect and analyse data through the case history and visual examinations### interpret this information to formulate a management plan.
Communicate with patients, colleagues, lecturers, supervisors and other health care providers utilising written optometric recording skills (clinical record cards) visual representation of conditions (for example topography results, slides, visual fields), or verbal presentations.
Have a working knowledge of instrumentation and technology in the field of eye care. Being aware of hygienic procedures and precautions to prevent the spread of eye diseases.
Demonstrate a holistic approach to patient management and health care.
Learn through reading, practicing skills, reflecting on mistakes as well as doing research.
Provide eye care services to the community at large.
Recognise and be sensitive to cultural differences in various communities and population groups.
Identify and apply for job opportunities in the market.
Create new or own employment possibilities.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes

Analyse the visual abilities of the patient, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and making a critical diagnosis considering various influencing factors, suggesting solutions and management strategies tailored to the patient's individual needs.
Contribute to research groups, projects, and assignments, discussing and reasoning diagnosis and management strategies with supervisors and peers.
Perform and record visual examinations efficiently, reflecting on decisions regarding management strategies and diagnosis.
Collect data from various sources, analyze and interpret it correctly, synthesizing a management plan, and reflecting on decision-making processes.
Communicate effectively with patients, accurately record results, report findings and strategies, present research findings and case studies, educate patients about eye care, and write referral letters.
Competently perform visual examinations and procedures using proper instrumentation, adhering to hygienic procedures in clinical and non-clinical settings.
Obtain information through patient case history, considering general health, environmental, cultural, multi-lingual, and socio-economic factors to devise appropriate management strategies.
Read and evaluate relevant material, demonstrate competence in optometric procedures, reflect on mistakes, complete research projects, and report on gathered information.
Participate in outreach programs providing eye care to remote areas and specialized clinics.
Demonstrate cultural sensitivity throughout patient interactions, decision-making processes, and case history taking.
Use written and technological means to seek employment, provide eye care to the community, interact in the corporate environment, and engage in academia.
Demonstrate independence, creativity, and establish contacts in corporate environments or private practice.

Integrated Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Completion of modules through written and/or practical examinations.
Presentation of research projects to lecturers and peers.
Level 8 learners expected to perform practical examinations.

Summative Assessment:

Assess theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and attitude towards patients.
Assessment through written and/or practical examinations, patient record card evaluations, case study presentations, and research projects.

Qualification Details

Type: National First Degree(Min 480)
NQF Level: 08
Min. Credits: 480
SAQA Source: More Information

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University of Johannesburg

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is a public university located in Johannesburg, South Africa. It was established in 2005 through the merger of the Rand Afrikaans University, Technikon Witwatersrand, and the Soweto and East Rand campuses of Vista University. UJ is one of the largest universities in South Africa, with over 50,000 students enrolled across its four campuses. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields, including arts, humanities, sciences, engineering, business, and health sciences. UJ is known for its commitment to providing quality education, promoting social justice, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

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This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.