Florida Department of Education
Curriculum Framework 

Program Title:	Vision Care Assisting
Program Type:	Career Preparatory
Career Cluster:	Health Science

Secondary – Career Preparatory	
Program Number	8417230	
CIP Number	0317070202	
Grade Level	9-12 	
Program Length	4 credits	
Teacher Certification	Refer to the Program Structure section. 	
CTSO	HOSA	
SOC Codes (all applicable) 	29-2081 -- Opticians, Dispensing 
31-9099 -- Healthcare Support Workers, All Other	
CTE Program Resources 	http://www.fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/career-tech-edu/program-resources.stml	

Purpose 

This program offers a sequence of courses that provides coherent and rigorous content aligned with challenging academic standards and relevant technical knowledge and skills needed to prepare for further education and careers in the Health Science career cluster; provides technical skill proficiency, and includes competency-based applied learning that contributes to the academic knowledge, higher-order reasoning and problem-solving skills, work attitudes, general employability skills, technical skills, and occupation-specific skills, and knowledge of all aspects of Health Science career cluster. 

This program is designed to prepare students for employment as vision care assistants (Industry Title) at the aide level to assist opticians:  dispensing and measuring, lens grinders, and other trained workers in the field of optics SOC 29-2081 (Opticians, Dispensing).  

The content includes but is not limited to planning, management, finance, technical and production skills, underlying principles of technology, labor issues, community issues and health, safety, and environmental issues.  Clinical learning experiences are an integral part of this program.

Additional Information relevant to this Career and Technical Education (CTE) program is provided at the end of this document.

Program Structure

This program is a planned sequence of instruction totaling four credits. The two credit Health Science Core (Health Science Anatomy & Physiology 8417100 and Health Science Foundations 8417110) is required as a prerequisite for all programs and options.  Secondary students completing the two required courses will not have to repeat the core in postsecondary.  

To teach the courses listed below, instructors must hold at least one of the teacher certifications indicated for that course.

The following table illustrates the secondary program structure:

Course Number	Course Title	Teacher Certification	Length	SOC Code	Level	Graduation Requirement	
8417100
OR	Health Science Anatomy & Physiology
           OR	ANY HEALTH OCCUP G (See DOE approved list)
BIOLOGY 1	1 credit	31-9099	3	EQ	
2000350
OR
2000360	Anatomy and Physiology 
           OR
Anatomy and Physiology Honors	SCIENCE @4
HEALTH 6
BIOLOGY 1
HEALTH ED @4					
8417110	Health Science Foundations	ANY HEALTH OCCUP G (See DOE approved list)	1 credit	31-9099	3	CT	
8417231	Vision Care Assisting 3	TEC OPTICS 7G	1 credit	29-2081	3	CT	
8417232	Vision Care Assisting 4		1 credit	29-2081	3	CT	
(Graduation Requirement Codes: CT= Career & Technical Education, EQ= Equally Rigorous Science, EC= Economics, MA= Mathematics, 
PL= Personal Financial Literacy)

Common Career Technical Core – Career Ready Practices

Career Ready Practices describe the career-ready skills that educators should seek to develop in their students.  These practices are not exclusive to a Career Pathway, program of study, discipline or level of education.  Career Ready Practices should be taught and reinforced in all career exploration and preparation programs with increasingly higher levels of complexity and expectation as a student advances through a program of study. 

1. Act as a responsible and contributing citizen and employee. 

2. Apply appropriate academic and technical skills. 

3. Attend to personal health and financial well-being. 

4. Communicate clearly, effectively and with reason. 

5. Consider the environmental, social and economic impacts of decisions. 

6. Demonstrate creativity and innovation. 

7. Employ valid and reliable research strategies. 

8. Utilize critical thinking to make sense of problems and persevere in solving them. 

9. Model integrity, ethical leadership and effective management. 

10. Plan education and career path aligned to personal goals. 

11. Use technology to enhance productivity. 

12. Work productively in teams while using cultural/global competence. 

Standards

After successfully completing this program, the student will be able to perform the following:

Health Science Core 
01.0	Analyze and interpret an overview of the human body, including organization and chemical process.
02.0	Apply correct medical terminology relating to body structure and function within a real-world application.
03.0	Evaluate cells and tissues microscopically and macroscopically and relate their specialized functions.
04.0	Analyze the integumentary system in relation to health and disease.
05.0	Analyze the skeletal system in relation to health and disease.
06.0	Analyze the muscular system in relation to health and disease.
07.0	Analyze the nervous system in relation to health and disease.
08.0	Analyze the endocrine system in relation to health and disease.
09.0	Analyze the cardiovascular/circulatory system in relation to health and disease.
10.0	Analyze the lymphatic and immune systems in relation to health and disease.
11.0	Analyze the respiratory system in relation to health and disease.
12.0	Analyze the digestive system in relation to health and disease.
13.0	Analyze the urinary system in relation to health and disease.
14.0	Analyze both the male and female reproductive systems in relation to health and disease.
15.0	Identify and explain factors relating to genetics and disease.
16.0	Evaluate and apply the principles of disease transmission and control to real-world scenarios.
17.0	Demonstrate knowledge of the healthcare delivery system and health occupations.
18.0	Demonstrate the ability to communicate and use interpersonal skills effectively.
19.0	Demonstrate legal and ethical responsibilities.
20.0	Demonstrate an understanding of and apply wellness and disease concepts.
21.0	Recognize and practice safety and security procedures.
22.0	Recognize and respond to emergency situations.
23.0	Recognize and practice infection control procedures.
24.0	Demonstrate an understanding of information technology applications in healthcare.
25.0	Demonstrate employability skills.
26.0	Demonstrate knowledge of blood borne diseases, including HIV/AIDS.
27.0	Apply basic math and science skills. 

Vision Care Assisting 3
28.0	Demonstrate knowledge of the visual system.
29.0	Gather patient history and all relevant data in preparation for a complete eye exam.
30.0	Prepare patients for and assist in testing for eye disorders.
31.0	Perform medical administrative office tasks.
32.0	Recognize patient needs in relation to lens characteristics.
33.0	Demonstrate knowledge of frame selection techniques used in a dispensing office setting.

Vision Care Assisting 4
34.0	Demonstrate knowledge of frame adjustment and alignment.
35.0	Demonstrate and perform basic skills relating to lenses.
36.0	Edge, tint and inspect a pair of glass or plastic lenses and insert into a frame.
37.0	Dispense optical supplies.

Florida Department of Education
Student Performance Standards
Health Science Core: 

The first two courses in this program are referred to as the Health Science Core and consist of the courses Health Science Anatomy & Physiology (8417100) and Health Science Foundations (8417110). To ensure consistency whenever these courses are offered, the standards and benchmarks for the health science core have been placed in a separate document. To access this document, visit this link:
https://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/20706/urlt/health-sci-core-secondary-2425.rtf

The two credit core is required as a prerequisite for all secondary programs except for Practical Nursing and Pharmacy Technician.  Secondary students completing the two required courses will not have to repeat the core in postsecondary.  When the recommended sequence is followed, the structure allows students to complete at specified courses for employment or remain for advanced training or cross-training.  

Course Title: 	Health Science Anatomy & Physiology 
Course Number: 	8417100
Course Credit:	1

Course Description:
This course is part of the secondary Health Core consisting of an overview of the human body, both structurally and functionally with emphasis on the pathophysiology and transmission of disease.  Medical terminology is an integral part of the course.

The course Anatomy and Physiology (2000350) or Anatomy and Physiology Honors (2000360) may be substituted for the course Health Science Anatomy & Physiology (8417100) and their standards can be found at www.cpalms.org.   

The course Health Science Anatomy & Physiology (8417100) is designated as an equally rigorous (EQ) science credit.

Course Title: 	Health Science Foundations 
Course Number: 	8417110
Course Credit:	1

Course Description:
This course is part of the Secondary Health Core designed to provide the student with an in depth knowledge of the health care system and associated occupations.  Emphasis is placed on communication and interpersonal skills, use of technology, ethics and the development of critical thinking and problem solving skills.  Students may shadow professionals throughout the course.  

Florida Department of Education
Student Performance Standards

Course Title:		Vision Care Assisting 3
Course Number:	8417231
Course Credit:	1

Course Description:

This course is one of the two courses that prepare students to be Vision Care Assistants.  Content includes, but is not limited to, care and maintenance of contact lenses and eyewear, basic skills pertaining to lens manufacturing, office support skills and patient safety. 

CTE Standards and Benchmarks	
28.0	Demonstrate knowledge of the visual system.  The students will be able to:	
28.01	Identify the anatomy of the eye.	
28.02	Describe the physiology of each part of the eye.	
28.03	Describe the visual pathway.	
28.04	Define refractive errors.	
28.05	Explain the most common conditions of the eye.	
29.0	Gather patient history and all relevant data in preparation for a complete eye exam.  The students will be able to:	
29.01	Record personal information and the patient’s chief complaint.	
29.02	Record the patient’s medical and ocular history.	
29.03	Record the family’s medical and ocular history using proper medical abbreviations.	
29.04	Identify preexisting conditions and medications affecting the eye.	
29.05	Elicit information with respect to current pertinence for examination.	
30.0	Prepare patients for and assist in testing for eye disorders.  The students will be able to:	
30.01	Accurately take and record patient blood pressure, pulse, height and weight.	
30.02	Accurately screen and record patient visual acuity.	
30.03	Accurately evaluate and record.
•	Dominant eye and hand.
•	Cover test for muscular imbalance.
•	Saccadic for erratic eye movements.
•	Near point of convergence.
•	Pursuits, rotations and versions.	
30.04	Demonstrate knowledge of selected instruments used in determining specific eye disorders.	
31.0	Perform medical administrative office tasks.  The students will be able to:	
31.01	Schedule and confirm appointments.	
31.02	Process all types of incoming and outgoing correspondence.	
31.03	Organize office procedures from a management perspective.
•	Verification of insurance benefits.
•	Medical records management.
•	Insurance claims procedures.	
31.04	Perform filing using a variety of methods.	
31.05	Implement appropriate joint commission patient safety goals.	
31.06	Manage frame boards.	
32.0	Recognize patient needs in relation to lens characteristics.  The students will be able to:	
32.01	Interpret the various symbols and abbreviations in a written eyeglass and contact lens prescription.	
32.02	Distinguish lens criteria for myopic, hyperopic, astigmatic and presbyopic correction.	
32.03	Identify the different designs of multifocal lenses to fit the patient’s needs.	
32.04	Calculate focal lengths from dipotric values. 	
32.05	Measure vertex distance and compensate for contact lens use.	
32.06	Accurately measure a patient’s needs with the use of a phoropter.	
32.07	Define prism imbalance, vertical imbalance and full imbalance.	
32.08	Identify the effects of optical prism on lenses. 	
32.09	Describe the effects of types of tint on the eye.	
32.010	Estimate the best transmission value related to light.	
33.0	Demonstrate knowledge of frame selection techniques used in a dispensing office setting.  The students will be able to:	
33.01	Distinguish between square, round, rectangular, oblong and oval features.	
33.02	Compare features with large, long and small nasal attributes.	
33.03	Contrast hair and skin tone.	
33.04	Select a frame such that the horizontal and vertical fit the patient’s needs.	
33.05	Select a frame such that the material and color fit the patient’s needs.	
33.06	Select a frame considering lens thickness and material.	
33.07	Select a frame considering temple length.	
33.08	Identify and record frame measurements and markings.	

Florida Department of Education
Student Performance Standards

Course Title:		Vision Care Assisting 4
Course Number:	8417232
Course Credit:	1

Course Description:

This course is the second of two courses that prepare students to be Vision Care Assistants.  Content includes, but is not limited to, creation and completion of eyewear, frame selection techniques, frame adjustment and alignment, patient needs in relation to eyewear, compiling a patient case history as well as assisting in eye disorder testing.

CTE Standards and Benchmarks	
34.0	Demonstrate knowledge of frame adjustment and alignment.  The students will be able to:	
34.01	Identify frame parts and materials. 	
34.02	Demonstrate knowledge of frame measurement.	
34.03	Demonstrate pupillary distance measurement. 	
34.04	Demonstrate frame selection considering customer and frame characteristics.	
34.05	Select correct frame and bridge size.	
34.06	Verify prescription information.	
34.07	Perform frame adjustment and alignment.	
34.08	Perform frame repairs.	
34.09	Identify occupational eyewear and special purpose frames.	
35.0	Demonstrate and perform basic skills relating to lenses.  The students will be able to:	
35.01	Use a manual lensometer.	
35.02	Find the optical center of a sphere and a spherocylindrical lens in a manual lensometer.	
35.03	Convert a lens according to the principals of toric transposition.	
35.04	Duplicate a pair of prescription eyeglasses.	
35.05	Calculate lens size.	
35.06	Calculate decentration. 	
35.07	Demonstrate knowledge of lens tinting.	
35.08	Check finished product against ANSI standards.	
36.0	Edge, tint and inspect a pair of glass or plastic lenses and insert into a frame.  The students will be able to:	
36.01	Spot the optical center on any given axis in a pair of single vision, bifocal, or progressive lenses.	
36.02	Decenter and block any given lens avoiding unwanted prism.	
36.03	Edge any single vision or multifocal lens to mount in a plastic, metal, semi-rimless and rimless frame.	
36.04	Apply a safety bevel.	
36.05	Tint and coat various lenses.	
36.06	Insert lens into a frame.	
36.07	Inspect completed spectacles to meet ANSI Standards.	
37.0	Dispense optical supplies.  The students will be able to:	
37.01	Select frames according to prescription suitability, color, style and size. 	
37.02	Fill out Rx card completely and correctly.	
37.03	Take proper patient measurements.	
37.04	Dispense eyewear.	
37.05	Adjust frames to patient’s face using standard alignment.	
37.06	Manage frame-boards.	
37.07	Dispense contact lenses.	
37.08	Describe types and care systems for contact lenses.	
37.09	Demonstrate insertion and removal techniques of contact lenses.	
37.10	Use keratometer.	
37.11	Demonstrate knowledge of frame repair.	
38.0	Demonstrate knowledge of effective business management operation techniques.  The students will be able to:	
38.01	Develop a small business plan of operation	
38.02	Develop an office procedure manual	
38.03	Demonstrate knowledge of finances, operating expenses, and inventory	
38.04	Demonstrate knowledge of marketing and office set up.	

Additional Information

Laboratory Activities

Laboratory investigations that include scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, emerging technologies, tools and equipment, as well as, experimental, quality, and safety procedures are an integral part of this career and technical program/course. Laboratory investigations benefit all students by developing an understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills required to manage, operate, calibrate and troubleshoot equipment/tools used to make observations. Students understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data. Equipment and supplies should be provided to enhance hands-on experiences for students.

This program requires a clinical component of approximately 50% the length of the courses following the health science core. A portion of the clinical experience can be achieved through simulation when appropriate.  

Clinical courses require contact hours in the clinical setting in order to complete the health science program.  Hospitals, nursing homes, and other clinical facilities with clinical affiliation agreements limit the number of students that can rotate and/or be on site at one time.  Most facilities, including hospitals and nursing homes, limit the number of students to 15.  Due to these industry limitations, it is recommended that the student ratio be 15:1 (student/teacher) based on the clinical facilities that students attend to for clinical training.

Florida Standards for English Language Development (ELD)
English language learners communicate for social and instructional purposes within the school setting. ELD.K12.ELL.SI.1

English Language Development (ELD) Standards Special Notes:
Teachers are required to provide listening, speaking, reading and writing instruction that allows English language learners (ELL) to communicate for social and instructional purposes within the school setting.   For the given level of English language proficiency and with visual, graphic, or interactive support, students will interact with grade level words, expressions, sentences and discourse to process or produce language necessary for academic success. The ELD standard should specify a relevant content area concept or topic of study chosen by curriculum developers and teachers which maximizes an ELL’s need for communication and social skills. For additional information on the development and implementation of the ELD standards, please contact the Bureau of Student Achievement through Language Acquisition at sala@fldoe.org .

Special Notes

Following the completion of the Health Science Core, the student is eligible to take the National Health Care Foundation Skill Standards Assessment with instructor approval and the completion of a portfolio. 

This program meets the Department of Health’s education requirements for HIV/AIDS, Domestic Violence and Prevention of Medical Errors.  Although not a requirement for initial licensure, it is a requirement for renewal, therefore the instructor may provide a certificate for renewal purposes to the student verifying these requirements have been met.

If students in this program are seeking a licensure, certificate or registration through the Department of Health, please refer to 456.0635, F.S. for more information on disqualification for a license, certificate, or registration through the Department of Health. 

Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO)

HOSA: Future Health Professionals is the co-curricular career and technical student organization(s) providing leadership training and reinforcing specific career and technical skills. Career and Technical Student Organizations provide activities for students as an integral part of the instruction offered. 

Cooperative Training – OJT

On-the-job training is appropriate but not required for this program.  Whenever offered, the rules, guidelines, and requirements specified in the OJT framework apply. 

Accommodations

Federal and state legislation requires the provision of accommodations for students with disabilities as identified on the secondary student’s Individual Educational Plan (IEP) or 504 plan or postsecondary student’s accommodations’ plan to meet individual needs and ensure equal access. Accommodations change the way the student is instructed. Students with disabilities may need accommodations in such areas as instructional methods and materials, assignments and assessments, time demands and schedules, learning environment, assistive technology and special communication systems. Documentation of the accommodations requested and provided should be maintained in a confidential file.

In addition to accommodations, some secondary students with disabilities (students with an IEP served in Exceptional Student Education (ESE)) will need modifications to meet their needs.  Modifications change the outcomes or what the student is expected to learn, e.g., modifying the curriculum of a secondary career and technical education course.  Note: postsecondary curriculum and regulated secondary programs cannot be modified.

Some secondary students with disabilities (ESE) may need additional time (i.e., longer than the regular school year), to master the student performance standards associated with a regular course or a modified course.  If needed, a student may enroll in the same career and technical course more than once.  Documentation should be included in the IEP that clearly indicates that it is anticipated that the student may need an additional year to complete a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course.  The student should work on different competencies and new applications of competencies each year toward completion of the CTE course.  After achieving the competencies identified for the year, the student earns credit for the course.  It is important to ensure that credits earned by students are reported accurately.  The district’s information system must be designed to accept multiple credits for the same course number for eligible students with disabilities.