What are the views of ophthalmics students?
Students generally express positive and negative sentiments towards their ophthalmics course. While some appreciate the well-organised structure, supportive staff, and opportunities for clinical practice, others criticise the curriculum's accessibility, inconsistent feedback, and inadequate equipment.
Many students feel that the coursework is not adequately prepared, with some describing it as "very poorly written" and containing unanswerable questions. This has led to stress and negatively impacted performances in assessments.
Students also report difficulties with clinical placements, citing issues such as poor organisation, limited time, and inadequate supervision. Some express disappointment with the short duration of placements, which they feel does not provide sufficient learning and skill development opportunities.
Additionally, students mention concerns about staff turnover, inconsistent teaching quality, and a lack of sensitivity towards their needs. A few students report feeling "singled out" or "gaslighted" when attempting to appeal unsatisfactory marks or address concerns about broken equipment.
Despite these challenges, some students appreciate the opportunities for clinical practice, which they feel helps them apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. They also commend staff genuinely interested in teaching and supporting their learning.
However, overall, students' comments suggest that the course could benefit from improvements to its curriculum design, assessment methods, and support structures to better cater to diverse student needs and enhance their learning experiences.