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Updated: Apr 29, 2026
A Standardized Obstacle Course for Assessment of Visual Function in Ultra Low Vision and Artificial Vision
Published on: February 11, 2014
Development of a new competency-based comprehensive training program for vision screeners
Yasmin Jindani1, Quang Ngo2, Alexandra Wisnios1
1Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.
Objective:
School-based vision screening programs identify children with ocular abnormalities and refer them to eye care professionals, allowing access to better vision and improved learning potential. While non-health care professionals often conduct these screenings, effective training methods are not well defined. This study describes a standardized, competency-based training program to prepare non-health care personnel to perform reliable vision screenings for children.
Design:
Competency-based and experiential learning.
Participants:
170 students from McMaster University.
Methods:
Training included 4 phases: (1) online modules with assessments; (2) hands-on screening skill development at practical stations; (3) competency evaluation via Objective Structured Clinical Examination; and (4) remediation for underperforming trainees.
Results:
From 2022 to 2025, 170 trainees enrolled in the program, 128 completed the program successfully, and only 9 required Phase 4 support. Over 19,000 senior kindergarten students were screened through the new competency-based screening program.
Conclusions:
Further validation will support the standardization of this training model. A universally adopted training method to teach non-eye care professionals to accurately perform vision screening is essential to ensure that all children receive the highest standard of care.
