University of Huddersfield researchers use model eye as tonometry teaching device

New research published in Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics has outlined the use of a model eye as an instructional tool when teaching optometry students tonometry.

University of Huddersfield lecturers, Kate Doorduyn, Rebekka Heitmar and Lauren Coetzee, examined the perceived value of the tonometry model eye among optometry students learning Goldmann applanation tonometry.

A survey of second and third-year optometry students at the University of Huddersfield found that 86% reported improved confidence in tonometry after using the model eye, while 82% would highly recommend the instructional tool to other students.

The University of Huddersfield department of optometry and vision sciences began using the model eye as an instructional tool for tonometry during COVID-19.

University of Huddersfield

Lauren Coetzee, Rebekka Heitmar and Kate Doorduyn (left to right)

Doorduyn explained that learning Goldmann applanation tonometry can be a daunting process.

“When we measure the eye pressure using this type of tonometer, you need to touch the surface of the eye with an instrument,” she shared.

“There's a risk of scratching the eye or causing trauma. We wanted to do some research into the reliability of the model eye for teaching tonometry and find out what the students and tutors think about it, so we can make full use of it as a learning tool,” Doorduyn highlighted.

Heitmar shared that the model eye enables students to build up their confidence with the procedure.

“The majority of courses learn on the real eye, with students practising on each other. What we’ve done is isolate the technical aspect, allowing students to be confident that they can safely take an accurate measurement of pressure in the eye, before they move on to a human eye,” she said.