Interactive Web-based Learning Platform for Contact Lens Education

Optometry students and ECPs often face challenges in CL learning. Firstly, accessing updated contact lens information, particularly in the Hong Kong market, where data is scarce and scattered. Traditional methods like random searches or product handbooks are inefficient. Secondly, the conventional peer-dependent rigid lens learning model lacks flexibility and limits students' learning experiences, as that’s impossible for them to try out an excessive number of lenses on a single subject's eye, to monitor the lens dynamic changes across the different lens parameters.

To address these challenges, our academic team collaborated with our clinical team and developed a comprehensive, interactive, and mobile-friendly web-based contact lens learning platform. This initiative was supported by funding from the PolyU Strategic Plan Initiatives to Enhance the Student Learning Experience through the Use of Interactive Pedagogies 2021-22.

Search Engine

Updated information on over 350 contact lenses and ophthalmic solutions, tailored for the Hong Kong market.

Interactive Case Studies

Enriched with 126 dynamic lens-fitting videos and 372 static lens-fitting photos, supplemented with fitting advice from experienced practitioners.

Additional Learning Resources

Clinical procedure videos and self-study questions.

One of the most challenging aspects of the platform's development was the Rigid Lens Learning Series. After identifying three suitable eyes with the desired corneal curvature (high, moderate, and low corneal astigmatism), each eye was fitted with more than 60 rigid contact lenses, and all the fitting performances were documented through photos and videos. These fittings were then evaluated by five experienced RGP practitioners for grading and comments. Finally, 126 dynamic fitting videos, 372 static fitting photos, and a summary of approximately 1,000 fitting comments from practitioners were all incorporated into the platform.

Although the development is challenging, the platform's impact was significant, as evidenced by a marked improvement in lens fitting assessment quiz scores among students in the subject Contact Lens Practice 2 (SO4014), with a mean accuracy increase of 19.8±26.5% (P<0.05). The evaluation was also overwhelmingly positive; 87.5% of the students preferred the platform over conventional teaching alone, and 100% found the platform valuable to their learning.

Conclusion:
The platform enables students and ECPs to access updated contact lens product information and provides various learning tools, including rigid contact lens case series allowing for interactive learning. This enhances their educational experience and equips them with the latest product knowledge, ultimately benefiting their future practice as optometrists.