The residency incorporates an extensive didactic series including basic science studies, clinical patient care, socioeconomic issues, ethics, regular journal clubs, fluorescein angiogram conference, and Ophthalmology Grand Rounds.  Residents are expected to routinely attend and participate in conferences, including presenting at Grand Rounds at least once a year with a faculty sponsor.

Beginning in July 2025, we are piloting an innovative approach to resident didactics that incorporates varied and dynamic teaching methods, including traditional lectures, flipped classrooms, active learning models, and case-based review sessions.  This pilot is spearheaded by Dr. Christi Willen, the pediatric ophthalmology fellowship director and perennial favorite resident lecturer. 

Every Friday morning is devoted to didactics, as residents will systematically work through the Basic Clinical Science Course (BCSC) on an 18-month rotating schedule.  Residents will prepare assigned readings and will work with faculty mentors on a rotating basis to plan active learning sessions to ensure the acquisition and retention of material.  The month leading up to the OKAP exam is dedicated to high yield and review sessions. Friday morning didactics are supported by supplemental electronic media, specialty journal clubs, wet labs, and an annual orbital anatomy course with cadaveric dissection.

In addition to the BCSC books, residents are provided a subscription to AAO online question databank.  Second year residents attend the annual OKAP preparation course each spring at Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia, PA.  All residents receive a education fund of $533 each year to be used on discretionary education and book purchases.

Residents are provided iPads and an electronic copy of the BCSC books, as well as other online content. Like all others, our program adapted during the pandemic and have cultivated a large list of online resources and other media outlets to augment traditional learning. Our residents work with their mentors to establish an individualized education plan (IEP) early each academic year to help guide their study habits and progress throughout residency.