Effectiveness of online learning in improving optometry student's reflective abilities

Purpose Optometry education strives to develop competencies required for reflective practice in its pupils. The forced changes in academia during COVID-19 pandemic, rapid switching to online methods imposed serious challenges on the training of reflective skills. We hypothesize that the synchronous online sessions of case-based reflections are effective in imparting training for reflective practice in optometry students. Methods A prospective study was done with planned, synchronous, online, small group workshops for case-based reflections through the second year of optometry program during ‘introduction to patient care’ course. The reflective competencies were measured with a modified Groningen Reflection Ability Scale (GRAS) at the beginning and towards conclusion. Data was analysed with Mann-Whitney one tail test and qualitative thematic methods. Results Total of 104 students participated in the study. The aggregate score showed significant improvement (p<0.05) in students’ reflective ability. A rising trend was seen in each component namely self-reflection, empathetic and communication reflections. Discussions The results demonstrate that the reflective skills can be developed using virtual patient experiences, case-based reflective practices conducted in synchronous small group workshops in online mode. Students perceived it as useful activity in developing themselves as healthcare professionals. (AU)

Effectiveness of online learning in improving optometry student's reflective abilities.

PURPOSE: Optometry education strives to develop competencies required for reflective practice in its pupils. The forced changes in academia during COVID-19 pandemic, rapid switching to online methods imposed serious challenges on the training of reflective skills. We hypothesize that the synchronous online sessions of case-based reflections are effective in imparting training for reflective practice in optometry students. METHODS: A prospective study was done with planned, synchronous, online, small group workshops for case-based reflections through the second year of optometry program during 'introduction to patient care' course. The reflective competencies were measured with a modified Groningen Reflection Ability Scale (GRAS) at the beginning and towards conclusion. Data was analysed with Mann-Whitney one tail test and qualitative thematic methods. RESULTS: Total of 104 students participated in the study. The aggregate score showed significant improvement (p<0.05) in students' reflective ability. A rising trend was seen in each component namely self-reflection, empathetic and communication reflections. DISCUSSIONS: The results demonstrate that the reflective skills can be developed using virtual patient experiences, case-based reflective practices conducted in synchronous small group workshops in online mode. Students perceived it as useful activity in developing themselves as healthcare professionals.

Development and validation of competency framework for teaching management of refractive errors: A participatory Delphi approach.

PURPOSE: Competency-based education and assessment are globally trending, also embraced by recently announced National education policy 2020, India. Medical programs are rapidly transforming to produce competent health professionals, to satisfy public health requirements. This paper describes Delphi study with a participatory approach, to develop a competency matrix required for training of eye care professionals. METHODS: Scoping review of literature formulated the baseline architecture of competency framework identifying two core competencies for management of refractive error, namely, "visual function assessment" and "optical technology management." The Delphi technique was employed for the development of a competency matrix with detailed knowledge, skills, and attitude (KSA) definitions for all competency elements. A heterogeneous group including optometry practitioners, academicians, researchers, association representatives, and industry representatives accomplished the objective in four rounds. RESULTS: Delphi study resulted in defining two competency clusters (CC): "CC1: Refraction" with 10 units and 43 elements and "CC2: Dispensing optics" with 8 units and 54 elements. KSA components of each of competency elements were identified and mapped with applied optics curriculum in the optometry program. CONCLUSION: Participation of all stakeholders of the educational system is essential and beneficial for nurturing of the competent workforce in healthcare. It helps build a curriculum not only having theoretical knowledge and skills but also the attitude and behavioral component of measurable competencies that satisfies the needs of the local healthcare system. This study has evolved a comprehensive competency matrix highlighting essential competencies required for the effective management of refractive error.

Revitalizing journal clubs: Millennial perspectives for enhancing student learning and engagement.

Background: Current trends in health professions education are aligned to meet the needs of the millennial learner. The aim of this study was to identify learners' perceptions of an ongoing journal club (JC) activity in the optometry curriculum and evaluate the utility and efficiency of this method in promoting student learning. Methods: A qualitative approach with a phenomenological research design was adopted. The perceptions of undergraduate and postgraduate optometry students about JCs were captured using focus group discussions. A narrative thematic analysis was done using the verbatim transcripts and moderator's notes. Results are reported using "consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research" guidelines. Results: A total of 33 optometry students participated in the study. Data analysis revealed three major themes related to (i) The ongoing practice of JC, (ii) student perceptions of JC and its relevance in facilitating student learning, and (iii) suggestions for modification of JC for achieving optimal educational outcomes. Discussion: Student feedback indicates that an instructional redesigning of JC is necessary, considering the characteristics and expectations of the current generation of learners and the rapid strides made in the field of educational technology. The recommendations provided are likely to resurrect an age-old approach that still has educational relevance if blended with collaborative learning formats and appropriate technology.

Impact of COVID-19 on academic activities and way forward in Indian Optometry / Impacto del COVID-19 en las actividades académicas y el camino a seguir en la Optometría en India

PURPOSE: Academia is experiencing massive reforms globally amid lockdown in COVID-19 outbreak. This study is aimed to apprehend the enabling and impeding factors of these reforms, with a focus on optometry education. It brings together how the Indian optometry educational system has responded to COVID-19 disruptions with findings of the 2020 survey, in light of similar survey done in 2018. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional survey was designed to find changes in optometry training and adaptations of Indian optometry educators amid COVID 19 lockdown. In the last week of April 2020, on the observation that the majority of optometry institutions have switched their teaching-learning activities on e-learning mode, an online survey was conducted using a validated questionnaire containing a mix of open and close-ended questions. RESULTS: Seventy-three out of 78 optometry educators (93.58%) have switched to e-learning mode in a very short time span with good confidence. Most teaching-learning and assessment activities are carried out using multi-device supporting video conferencing tools, dedicated educational portals and social media apps. CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic is proving to be a constructive disruptor, giving an opportunity for restructuring the present conventional, classroom based educational system. The quick transitions to online mode assisted in keeping continuity of optometry education programs, effectively fitting in the purpose of completion of the current academic year. The rapid transition to online education has not only benefited optometry students but also has created a momentum of continued education for practicing optometrist in the country

PROPÓSITO: La Academia está experimentando reformas masivas a nivel mundial en medio del bloqueo del brote del COVID-19. Este estudio tiene como objetivo aprehender los factores favorables y desfavorables de estas reformas, con un enfoque en la educación de la optometría. Reúne cómo el sistema educativo de optometría de la India ha respondido a los trastornos del COVID-19 con los resultados de la encuesta de 2020, a la luz de una encuesta similar realizada en 2018. METODOLOGÍA: Una encuesta transversal fue diseñada para encontrar cambios en la formación de optometría y adaptaciones de los educadores de optometría de la India en medio del cierre del COVID 19. En la última semana de abril de 2020, a partir de la observación de que la mayoría de las instituciones de optometría han cambiado sus actividades de enseñanza-aprendizaje en el modo de aprendizaje electrónico, se realizó una encuesta en línea utilizando un cuestionario validado que contenía una mezcla de preguntas abiertas y cerradas. RESULTADOS: Setenta y tres de 78 educadores de optometría (93,58%) han cambiado a la modalidad de aprendizaje electrónico en un período de tiempo muy corto con buena confianza. La mayoría de las actividades de enseñanza-aprendizaje y evaluación se llevan a cabo utilizando herramientas de videoconferencia de apoyo multidispositivo, portales educativos dedicados y aplicaciones de redes sociales. CONCLUSIÓN: La pandemia del COVID-19 está demostrando ser un disruptor constructivo, que ofrece la oportunidad de reestructurar el actual sistema educativo convencional basado en el aula. Las rápidas transiciones al modo online ayudaron a mantener la continuidad de los programas educativos de optometría, encajando eficazmente en el propósito de completar el año académico actual. La rápida transición a la educación en línea no sólo ha beneficiado a los estudiantes de optometría, sino que también ha creado un impulso de educación continua para los optometristas en ejercicio en el país

Impact of COVID-19 on academic activities and way forward in Indian Optometry.

PURPOSE: Academia is experiencing massive reforms globally amid lockdown in COVID-19 outbreak. This study is aimed to apprehend the enabling and impeding factors of these reforms, with a focus on optometry education. It brings together how the Indian optometry educational system has responded to COVID-19 disruptions with findings of the 2020 survey, in light of similar survey done in 2018. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional survey was designed to find changes in optometry training and adaptations of Indian optometry educators amid COVID 19 lockdown. In the last week of April 2020, on the observation that the majority of optometry institutions have switched their teaching-learning activities on e-learning mode, an online survey was conducted using a validated questionnaire containing a mix of open and close-ended questions. RESULTS: Seventy-three out of 78 optometry educators (93.58%) have switched to e-learning mode in a very short time span with good confidence. Most teaching-learning and assessment activities are carried out using multi-device supporting video conferencing tools, dedicated educational portals and social media apps. CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic is proving to be a constructive disruptor, giving an opportunity for restructuring the present conventional, classroom based educational system. The quick transitions to online mode assisted in keeping continuity of optometry education programs, effectively fitting in the purpose of completion of the current academic year. The rapid transition to online education has not only benefited optometry students but also has created a momentum of continued education for practicing optometrist in the country.