OPN361 Evidence Based Optometry

Unit Outline: Semester 1 2024, Kelvin Grove, Internal

Overview

This unit provides an understanding of the relationships between research and clinical practice in the development of evidence-based practice relevant for optometric practice. This is a complex and multi-faceted process requiring a strong understanding of the principles and processes of evidence-based practice, in order to inform the utilisation of evidence to ensure quality health care for patients. The skills and knowledge developed in this unit provide a basis to understand current clinical developments and further develop critical analysis and thinking skills required to successfully implement evidence-based practice into clinical routines, and provide a foundation for life-long development as a health care professional.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:

1. Explain the principles of evidence-based practice and how these apply to optometric practice;
2. Compile and critically appraise optometry, ophthalmology and visual science literature relevant to informing clinical practice;
3. Analyse relevant research to construct and defend opinions and judgments to inform evidence-based decisions about patient management and care;

Content

Learning Approaches

A range of approaches to teaching and learning will be used to develop knowledge and skills in evidence-based practice, with a focus on real world learning and practice.  These include an introductory lecture and workshop which provides an overview of the unit and the online content, and assist with assessment preparation as well as the use of online modular learning to provide a flexible learning pathway to consolidate understanding. Each module will provide a framework for learning activities and encourage critical analysis through a structured program of learning. Further, real world examples are used to develop retrieval skills in database searching and information literacy competency when searching for scientific evidence using systematic and structured searches in electronic bibliographic databases and clinical guidelines.

Feedback on Learning and Assessment

You will be provided with timely feedback following submission of assessment items which are scheduled throughout the semester. 

Assessment

Overview

There are two assessment items for this unit.

Unit Grading Scheme

7- point scale

Assessment Tasks

Assessment: Annotated Bibliography

Assessment: End of Semester Examination

The exam will cover the theoretical constructs covered by all of the learning objectives and consists of multiple choice questions, and short and long answer questions.

Academic Integrity

Students are expected to engage in learning and assessment at QUT with honesty, transparency and fairness. Maintaining academic integrity means upholding these principles and demonstrating valuable professional capabilities based on ethical foundations.

Failure to maintain academic integrity can take many forms. It includes cheating in examinations, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, and submitting an assessment item completed by another person (e.g. contract cheating). It can also include providing your assessment to another entity, such as to a person or website.

You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.

Further details of QUT’s approach to academic integrity are outlined in the Academic integrity policy and the Student Code of Conduct. Breaching QUT’s Academic integrity policy is regarded as student misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.

Resources

Resource Materials

Other

Print and electronic copies of relevant optometry, ophthalmology and vision science periodicals, as advised by lecturing staff.

Risk Assessment Statement

There are no out of the ordinary risks associated with this unit.

Standards/Competencies

This unit is designed to support your development of the following standards\competencies.

Entry-Level Competency Standards for Optometry 2014

1: Professional Responsibilities

1. 
   Relates to: Annotated Bibliography, End of Semester Examination
2. 
   Relates to: Annotated Bibliography, End of Semester Examination
3. 
   Relates to: End of Semester Examination
4. 
   Relates to: Annotated Bibliography, End of Semester Examination

Course Learning Outcomes

OP85 Master of Optometry

1. Theoretical optometric knowledge, cognitive, clinical and technical skills and research methodology in vision science
   Relates to: Annotated Bibliography, End of Semester Examination
2. Apply critical thinking and researchable questions to generate solutions to complex conditions in clinical and research settings
   Relates to: End of Semester Examination