The need for programs to update faculty training in ocular disease treatment is discussed, with emphasis placed on clinical experience and continuing education. (MSE)

Two aspects of optometric preceptorships (off-campus field experience supervision programs) are discussed: the process of defining goals (long-term, specific learning, and general attitudinal and value); and the process of developing the program (initiation, site selection, preceptor selection and recruitment, participant selection, program…

The development, implementation, and results of an experimental independent study course designed to provide professional continuing education in the use of diagnostic pharmaceutical agents in optometry are described. (MSE)

This article discusses barriers to development of a system of community-based clinical training sites for optometric residencies (concerns about costs, program quality, sufficient patient care experiences, meeting accreditation standards); ways to overcome them; benefits of community-based residencies; and the role of the Association of Schools…

The results of a college of optometry graduate survey, designed to gather information on how the clinical program has prepared professionals for practice during the last 10 years, are reported and the questionnaire used is included. (MSE)

The procedures of the Pennsylvania College of Optometry's Office of External Educational Programs are reviewed to show how quality assurance techniques can be categorized. The format was designed to evaluate quality assurance procedures for both the educational and service aspects of eye care. (MLW)

Results of a national survey of colleges of optometry concerning the form, scope, and methods of their short-term, long-term, and strategic planning activities are presented and discussed. (MSE)

Guidelines of the Southern College of Optometry (Tennessee) for development and administration of student externships are outlined and discussed, including principles addressing the setting of aims, goals, and objectives; preceptor (supervisor) and site selection; preceptor training; assignment of externships; and evaluation of students,…

The first attempt at optometric education in the Middle East, a program developed at King Saud University (Saudi Arabia), is described. The university's second class of optometrists is being trained in the College of Applied Medical Sciences. Professional identity, limited faculty, and development of resources have been problems. (MSE)

A position paper presented to Congress for the development of legislation for the education of health professions personnel is provided. Recommendations include: scholarship program for minority and disadvantaged students; program development for cost effectiveness, health protection and promotion, primary care, target populations, and…

This final report summarizes work performed by the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) to develop a plan to regionalize optometric education in the western states. WICHE worked closely with a project advisory committee and the region's three schools of optometry to develop a regional plan. Personnel supply and demand in the…

Considerations in planning optometric clinical experiences are discussed, including guidelines for curriculum design, typical teaching strategies, teaching methods and materials, support services and resources, student orientation and debriefing, logistics, costs, personnel, funding sources, and legal liability issues. (MSE)

The New England Board of Higher Education presents findings and recommendations concerning the optometric, osteopathic, and podiatric education in the New England area. After a description of each of the professions, the following topics are discussed: interprofessional relationships, manpower needs, educational demands, college programs,…