HUMAN VISION AND FUNCTION
ORT1HVF
Not currently offered
Credit points: 15
Subject outline
In this subject you will be provided with an introduction to the human visual system, in order to explore the local and international sociological impacts of diseases of the eye and decreased visual function. Normal function is presented by explaining characteristics of light as an electromagnetic energy spectrum; the anatomy and physiology of the eye; visual pathways to the brain, and finally 3D perception and visual coordination. Some vision measurements are described so that impact of decreased vision can be explored, particularly in relation to day to day sedentary (e.g. reading) or physical (e.g. sports) activities. The five major eye diseases affecting populations globally are discussed. These include refractive error (the need for corrective lenses/glasses), cataract, diabetic eye disease, glaucoma and age- related macular degeneration. An overview of the medical (drug) and surgical treatment and management of these diseases are presented using patient case scenarios.
SchoolSchool Allied Health,Human Serv & Sport
Credit points15
Subject Co-ordinatorNatalia Kelly
Available to Study Abroad StudentsYes
Subject year levelYear Level 1 - UG
Exchange StudentsYes
Subject particulars
Subject rules
PrerequisitesN/A
Co-requisitesN/A
Incompatible subjectsN/A
Equivalent subjectsN/A
Special conditionsN/A
Readings
| Resource Type | Title | Resource Requirement | Author and Year | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Readings | Lecture Notes Ophthalmology | Recommended | James, B., Bron, A., Parulekar, M.V, 2016 | 12th EDN. JOHN WILEY AND SONS LTD |
Graduate capabilities & intended learning outcomes
01. Explain how the normal eye and brain enable perception of objects.
- Activities:
- Self-directed online activities which will facilitate students to to: (a) Describe some of the physical properties of light; (b) Draw diagrams and explain the macro- anatomy and physiology of the eye and related brain areas; (c) Describe simply, the steps that occur when light travels from an object being viewed, through the eye, to the brain for perception to occur; (d) Discuss visual illusions as normal function of an imperfect system.
02. Document, describe and perform measurement of visual function.
- Activities:
- Self-directed online experimental activities/exercises using vision, colour vision and 3D vision charts. Students will be able to: (a) Discuss the anatomical basis underlying vision measurement letter charts; (b) Describe the design of vision measurement charts by demonstrating their use experimentally; (c) Discuss the anatomical basis underlying colour vision measurement; (d) Describe the design of colour vision measurements by demonstrating their use experimentally; (e) Describe the physiological basis for design of stereoscopic (3 D) vision tests; (f) Perform and document measurement of stereoscopic vision.
03. Describe common eye diseases as deviations from normal function.
- Activities:
- Using analysis of a series of case studies, students will: (a) List and describe the 5 major visual diseases of refractive error (the need for corrective lenses/ glasses), cataract, diabetic eye disease, glaucoma and age- related macular degeneration; (b) Discuss prevalence for these diseases in Australia, including within indigenous communities, and in comparison with international populations; (c) Explain how physical and structural ocular change during these diseases, causes decreased vision; (d) Discuss common medical and surgical and management options for these diseases.
04. Discuss the sociological implications for individuals with decreased vision.
- Activities:
- Using analysis of a series of case studies, students will: (a) Describe risk factors for eye disease and those populations most at risk; (b) Describe costs (social and monetary) associated with decreased vision; (c) Describe local programs that aim to decrease risk factors.
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