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All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source. |
| SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY |
| REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: |
| Master of Technology: Optometry |
| SAQA QUAL ID | QUALIFICATION TITLE | |||
| 19560 | Master of Technology: Optometry | |||
| ORIGINATOR | ||||
| Committee of Technikon Principals | ||||
| PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY | NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK | |||
| CHE - Council on Higher Education | HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework | |||
| QUALIFICATION TYPE | FIELD | SUBFIELD | ||
| Master's Degree | Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services | Curative Health | ||
| ABET BAND | MINIMUM CREDITS | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | QUAL CLASS |
| Undefined | 120 | Level 8 and above | NQF Level 09 | Regular-Provider-ELOAC |
| REGISTRATION STATUS | SAQA DECISION NUMBER | REGISTRATION START DATE | REGISTRATION END DATE | |
|
Passed the End Date - Status was "Registered" |
SAQA 1337/01 | 2003-07-01 | 2006-06-30 | |
| LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT | LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT | |||
| 2007-06-30 | 2010-06-30 | |||
| In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise. |
This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. |
| PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION |
| This qualification is intended for optometric researchers in the field of health care. These persons will be competent to:
1. Conduct independent research under minimal guidance in the field of health care and related disciplines and contribute to knowledge production in that field. The research proposal, its justification, process and outcome is reported in a dissertation, which complies with the generally accepted norms for research at that level. 2. Apply specialised eye care within health care appropriate to the needs of the community. |
| LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING |
| B.Tech. Optometry or equivalent, registered with the HPCSA or Appropriate qualification at NQF level 7. |
| RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? |
| N |
| QUALIFICATION RULES |
| The qualification will be awarded to an optometrist who has provided evidence to the satisfaction of the assessors that the stated competence of the qualification, as detailed in the specified outcomes, has been achieved, either through education and training in a single provider's learning program, or through experience that complies with the stated specified outcomes. |
| EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES |
| The qualifying researcher will be able to:
1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the field / area of investigation. 2. Apply research methods and techniques to any relevant area within exit levels of B.Tech Option or within credited course work at level 7 of optometric learning, appropriately and correctly. 3. Make use of certain ocular and systemic medications competently while being aware of the necessary precautions, actions, interactions and side effects in the provision of eye care to patients. 4. Recognise, assess, confirm and appropriately manage ocular and related systemic diseases in the provision of eye care within health care to patients. 5. Apply knowledge of basic neuro-anatomy and vision development in the recognition and appropriate management of functional anomalies there-of. 6. Accurately assess the level of binocular function of vision and apply specialised skills / knowledge in the training and improvement to its most attainable level. 7. Competently fit specialised contact lenses and related aids to patients with compromised eyes or vision 8. Apply the relevant principles and management concepts to Public Health systems in the delivery of specialized eye and related care to the community. 9. Apply self-reflexive learning strategies to continually improve the optometric ally related service within health care service appropriate to the specific needs of the patient / client to ensure professional contribution to the needs of the community specifically and society in general. Specified outcomes: 1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the field/area of investigation pertaining to eye-care within health care to the community (This serves as a foundation for application of research. The research itself carries a separate credit component of 120 in total indicated by (RC) (RC) (20 credits) 2. Have applied research methods and techniques to any relevant area of choice within exit level of B.Optom or within credited course works at level 7 of optometric learning, appropriately and correctly 3. Make use of certain ocular and systematic medications competently while being aware of the necessary precautions, actions, interactions and side effects in the provision of eye care to patients 4. Recognise, assess, confirm and appropriately manage ocular and related systemic diseases in the provision of eye care within health care to patients 5. Apply knowledge of basic neuro-anatomy and vision development in the recognition and appropriate management of functional anomalies there-of (E) (25 credits). 6. Accurately assess the level of binocular function of vision and apply specialized skills/knowledge in the training and improvement to its most attainable level 7. Competently fit specialized contact lenses to patients with compromised eyes or vision 8. Apply the relevant principles and management concepts to Public health systems in the delivery of specialized eye and related care to community Critical outcomes: Apply self-reflexive learning strategies to continually improve the optometric related service within health care service appropriate to the specific needs of the patient/client to ensure professional contribution to the needs of the community specifically and society in general. * Develop an enthusiasm for the chosen career. * Continue to develop entrepreneurial skills relevant to the management of an optometry practice. * Understand the importance of self-development and life-long learning. * Convey a professional manner and attitude and be culturally and aesthetically sensitive towards all patients. * Effectively communicate and convey complex information to a lay person in such a way as to facilitate understanding of ophthalmic disorders and eye-care in general. * Work effectively with others as a member of the eye-care team. * Maintain a working knowledge of all relevant optometric technology to maintain high standards of eye-care. * Identify and solve problems, display responsible decision-making and make use of critical and creative thinking. * Contribute to the economic development of the country by enhancing eye-care of the working population. Critical Outcomes embedded in the specific outcomes: Apply self-reflexive learning strategies to continually improve the optometric ally related service within health care service appropriate to the specific needs of the patient / client to ensure professional contribution to the needs of the community specifically and society in general. * Develop an enthusiasm for the chosen career * Continue to develop entrepreneurial skills relevant to the management of an optometry practice * Understand the importance of self-development and life-long learning * Convey a professional manner and attitude and be culturally and aesthetically sensitive toward all patients * Effectively communicate and convey complex information to a layperson in such a way as to facilitate understanding of ophthalmic disorders and eye-care in general * Work effectively with others as a member of the eye-care team * Maintain a working knowledge of all relevant optometric technology to maintain high standards of eye-care * Identify and solve problems, display responsible decision-making and make use of critical and creative thinking * Contribute to the economic development of the country by enhancing eye-care of the working population |
| ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA |
| One
1. Listed and cited literature of the literature survey and the exposition of the research reflects familiarity with relevant and recent trends in technologies, techniques, models and theories in the chosen field. 2. Models, principles, theories, techniques and methodologies in the chosen field are analysed, explained, and juxtaposed correctly in oral presentations and the written record of research. Two 1. The use of literature surveys/experimentation/ correlation/causal analysis is justified fully and correctly in oral presentation and the written record of research. 2. The research problem is clearly identified, defined and detailed in the research proposal. * The stated hypothesis directs the investigation. * Logical interpretation of data reflects clear understanding of the relationship between facts in the study and the ability to evaluate contradictory information. 3. Information sources are used correctly and appropriately and include a range of media. * Information technology skills are applied effectively in information searches, data-analyses, data presentation, and the production of the dissertation. * The appropriate mathematical and statistical methods are applied correctly to quantitative and qualitative data. * The inferences, interpretations and conclusions from measurements and statistical analyses are valid. * Language and numeracy skills are applied effectively and correctly in communicating the research problem, its investigation, outcome and recommendations clearly. Three 1. Advanced knowledge of the relevant prescribed medication can be demonstrated. * Assertiveness within the appropriate discipline can be demonstrated. * Knowledge of alternative, inappropriate or substitute medications can be shown. * Knowledge of relevant drugs, their dosage and action on the eye and human body can be demonstrated as well as possible side effects. * Knowledge of relevant drugs and their action on infectious agents can be shown. * Likelihood of patient compliance can be correctly ascertained. 2. Advanced knowledge of the relevant prescribed medication can be demonstrated. * Assertiveness within the appropriate discipline can be demonstrated. * Knowledge of alternative, inappropriate or substitute medications can be shown. * Knowledge of relevant drugs, their dosage and action on the eye and human body can be demonstrated as well as possible side effects. * Knowledge of relevant drugs and their action on infectious agents can be shown. * Likelihood of patient compliance can be correctly ascertained. Four 1. Advanced knowledge of appropriate case histories and presenting signs and symptoms can be demonstrated. * Specialised techniques can be appropriately utilised in the assessment/confirmation of ocular pathologies. * A correct diagnosis can be made. * An appropriate management plan can be implemented. 2. Advanced knowledge of appropriate case histories and presenting signs and symptoms can be demonstrated. * Specialised techniques can be appropriately utilised in the assessment/confirmation of ocular pathologies. * A correct diagnosis can be made. * An appropriate management plan can be implemented. 3. Specialised relevant knowledge of associated systemic diseases can be interpreted correctly. * Knowledge of the significance of appropriate laboratory tests can be demonstrated. * Appropriate consultation and/or referral can be utilized while maintaining confidentiality. Five 1. Basic understanding of how the translation of a neural image into visual information occurs can be demonstrated. * Knowledge of neuron structure and function, networking and differentiation can be demonstrated. * Advanced knowledge of the conduction of visual impulses through the visual pathway to the brain can be shown. * Understanding of the function of different areas in the brain and their correlation to vision and visual function can be demonstrated. 2. Knowledge of the organisation and function of the central nervous system can be demonstrated. * Developmental stages of the central nervous system can be explained. * Gross and microscopic anatomy of the covering of the brain and spinal cord, and ventricular system can be defined. * Knowledge of the function of the spinal cord, brainstem and specific visual system pathways can be demonstrated. * Mechanisms of brain control over the directional posturing of the eyes and maintenance of image stability and verification can be explained. * Clinical syndromes affecting vision, brainstem and cranial nerves can be explained. * Knowledge of anatomy, function and the significance of various systems including vestibular and auditory, central nervous system and control of eye-movements, cerebellum, basal ganglia, di-encephalon, limbic system, cerebral cortex and the brain blood supply can be demonstrated. Six 1. An in-depth knowledge of the integration of the two separate ocular images along the visual pathways into the brain can be demonstrated. * Anomalies affecting visual image integration are understood, and can be explained. * Specialised instrumentation can be competently utilised in the accurate assessment of the degree of binocularity. 2. Knowledge can be utilised in the accurate assessment of binocular function leading to a competent management plan. * Specialised knowledge in the application of therapy and training programs can be shown. * On-going evaluations to assess the success of training, and to modify therapies, can be performed competently. * Referrals/consultations can be carried out when deemed necessary * A prognosis can be determined and explained to the patient. Seven 1. An in-depth knowledge of corneal anatomy and physiology can be shown. * Advanced knowledge of contact lens materials and lens design can be demonstrated. * Management of special cases can be competently implemented. (Therapeutic, paediatric, geriatric) 2. Advanced knowledge of ocular complications caused by contact lens wear and some ocular surgery is clearly understood and can be identified. * Management and follow-up procedures of complications can be implemented. * Knowledge of systemic conditions and pharmaceutically and environmentally related implications can be demonstrated. Eight 1. Relevant knowledge and concepts of South African and some other countries public health structures can be defined. * The correct procedures are understood and can be utilized to provide optimal health care service to members of the community. 2. Knowledge of the World Health Organizations vision for 2020 can be shown. * Concepts of World Health Organizations vision for 2020 are understood and can be structured into the community. 3. Assessment can be carried out, of the accessibility of members of the community to basic health support systems. * Education of the community, in basic health and ocular hygiene can be implemented within specific legislation and economical parameters. * The concept of ongoing promotive health programs can be demonstrated. 4. Use of critical and creative thinking can be applied. * Problem solving with a team approach can be utilized. * Relevant knowledge of the community/area can be ascertained. 5. Realistic management goals and strategies can be ascertained and implemented. * Consequences of decisions can be understood and accounted for. 6. Simple informative pamphlets/posters can be designed and distributed on common eye diseases. * Basic eye hygiene can be described and taught to patients/persons. * Environmental influences on the eye and visual system can be explained simply to the patient/person. * Preventative measures can be taught to allow the patient/person to maintain healthy vision function. Integrated assessment: Formative and summative assessment allow for progressive mastery of skills and knowledge utilising the following methods including continuous assessment: |
| ARTICULATION OPTIONS |
| 1. University of the North
2. Randse Afrikaanse Universiteit 3. University Durban-Westville Within the proposed optometric services career ladder the degree will articulate with that of |
| MODERATION OPTIONS |
| Criteria are those to meet SERTEC requirements.
Professional Board for Optometry and Dispensing Opticians, under the Health Professions Council of South Africa. Overviewed by the South African Optometric Association. |
| CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS |
| Criteria are those to meet SERTEC requirements
S.African assessors must be registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa Assessors should be actively involved in either optometric education, optometric practice or industry and should have a working knowledge of the minimum standards required to obtain the qualification. |
| NOTES |
| While South Africa still had Technikons, all of their qualifications were registered under the Committee of Technikon Principals. After the Technikons became Universities of Technology or merged with Universities, the qualifications were registered under each of these institutions, and the CTP qualifications fell away (hence the end date of 2006, above). Where relevant, replacement information is s hown in the table above. |
| LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: |
| NONE |
| PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: |
| This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here. |
| NONE |
| All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source. |