Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences

DOVS Faculty, Learners Team Up to Teach Ophthalmology to Local Students

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A group of UW Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences staff, faculty and learners recently teamed up to put on a half-day learning opportunity – all about eyes – for local students.

The “Odyssey Into Ophthalmology” course, created by Cat Burkat, MD, FACS, took place on Friday, April 15. Over a dozen students from Madison East High School got a crash-course in comprehensive ophthalmology, oculoplastics, cornea/retina, pediatric care, cataract surgery and much more. Faculty and learners put on informative presentations and took part in educational games, as well as conducting an eye myth-busting session which allowed students to ask all of their burning questions about the eyes.

Throughout the day, students were also able to get hands-on experience with suturing techniques, practice surgical skills on grapes, and examine each other’s eyes using slit lamps.

Overall, students left with a better understanding of ophthalmology as not only a science, but as a career possibility as well.

Instructors Dan Knoch and Cat Burkat demonstrate their ophthalmology props for the class. Ophthalmologist Travis Rumery demonstrates how the slit lamp works. Ophthalmologist Jennifer Larson demonstrates a surgical technique on a grape. Instructors Elaine Downie, Tyler Boulter and Cat Burkat pose for a photo with their homemade props.

A special thanks to our DOVS faculty members and learners who donated their time and expertise to this course, including:

Tyler Boulter, MD

Cat Burkat, MD

Elaine Downie, MD

Daniel Knoch, MD

Jennifer Larson, MD

Travis Rumery, DO

Michael Struck, MD