• This is an ON-DEMAND course taught virtually using the Academy Learning Portal. Other online learning materials may also be utilized. 
• You may register after the official start of the course but all required components must be completed by March 28, 2024 for credit.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL COURSE BROCHURE

DESCRIPTION: This online course offers a comprehensive exploration of how visual and perceptual impairments can profoundly impact an individual's daily routines and their ability to engage in designated roles. Visual impairments can limit progression across different levels of care and various types of activities (e.g. reading, mobility, and self-care). This course aims to familiarize participants with prevalent visual-perceptual impairments that often constrain the performance of patients coping with visual challenges stemming from neurological injury or illness. Participants will not only revisit key anatomical features but will also delve into the fundamental components of a comprehensive vision assessment. This assessment encompasses critical aspects like visual acuity, ocular motor control, ocular alignment, visual fields, and spatial neglect. These concepts are organized in a simple framework that supports effective interpretation of a visual assessment and clinical decision-making to develop of a plan of care. Instructors will provide insights into adaptable assessment approaches tailored to individuals facing cognitive or communication impairments. Case examples and videos will support the interpretation and application of novel concepts.

DATES: February 5, 2024 - March 28, 2024

FACULTY: 

• ­­Viktoriya Landar, OTR/L Occupational Therapist, Atlanta, GA
• Kelsey Watters, CScD, OTR/L, BCPR, CBIS Occupational Therapist, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Adjunct Faculty, University of Pittsburgh, Occupational Therapy program, Adjunct Faculty, University of Illinois Chicago, Occupational Therapy program
• Stacey Lane, PT, DPT, NCS Physical Therapist, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
• Shelby Masland, MA, CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
• Haleigh Nierman, OTR/L Occupational Therapist, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
• Dr. Michael Zost, O.D., FAAO, FCOVD Optometrist, Vision Rehabilitation Associates

AUDIENCE: Speech-Language Pathologists

LEARNER OUTCOMES: Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to: 

• Identify key anatomical features of the visual system and common visual-perceptual deficits associated with neurologic diagnoses.
• Select appropriate components of a comprehensive vision assessment using the framework introduced during course (visual acuity impairments, visual field loss and spatial neglect).
• Critically assess and interpret findings from a visual assessment in the context of case examples.
• Develop strategies to address visual deficits during assessment, structured and functional visual, written or reading tasks.
• Identify symptoms or other contributing factors that may influence performance during a visual assessment with neurologic patients.

SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION: Participants will watch six recorded lectures (total of nine and a half live hours) and will complete six and a half hours of self-study. The self-study activities for the course will consist of videos, readings, case studies, virtual discussion board postings and knowledge checks. The self-study activities for the course will consist of videos, readings, case studies, vision screening practice, and knowledge checks. It is recommended to pace the pre-work with the recorded sessions. There will be two optional office hours with course faculty to allow the opportunity for live interaction with the course material. All participants will be required to complete a final online evaluation by March 28, 2024.

CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT: