TRAINING OF N.Z. OPTICIANS WANTED AT MELBOURNE

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 14, Issue 52, 17 October 1949, Page 4

TRAINING OF N.Z. OPTICIANS WANTED AT MELBOURNE

Future New Zealand opticians may train at Melbourne University as a result of a series of conferences held by the Institute of New Zealand Opticians to investigate fully the existing 'examination system.

Modern optometry has rapidly developed specialised techniques which call for major changes in student training facilities, says a statement from the institute. Low population figures in New Zealand, with its relatively few optical students, do not justify a New Zealand School of Optices. Tuition In Courses Trainees have depended on master opticians for tuition in the practical and correspondence courses for the theory. Although maintaining a high standard, this method is proving cumbersome and uneconomic to both student and tutor, and necessitates a longer period in training than was generally required in other countries.

The adequately equipped Melbourne College of Optometry, under the direction of the Melbourne University, has already admitted a number of New Zealand students.

The following resolutions are to be presented to the Government:— “This meeting recommends the adoption of the training facilities offered by the Melbourne College of Optometry subject to satisfactory arrangements being effected.”

“That in the event of the Australian scheme being implemented, the diploma of the Melbourne College of Optometry be accepted under the Opticians Regulations of New Zealand, provided that the student was a bona fide resident of New Zealand at the time of his commencement of the course.” . “The four-year professional course for their diploma (L.O.Sc.) may be taken in the following manner: (1) First year at a college of the University of New Zealand; (2) second, third, and fourth years at the Australian College.”

< The statement says the institute feels strongly that th 6 Government must adopt this scheme to ensure a high standard and improved facilities for New Zealand trainees.