Abstract:

The design of a visual test in digital format generally requires computer skills that are not always available to a vision specialist. That is why we have considered the possibility of providing software that allows this type of users to design tests based solely on their knowledge of cell properties at different stages of the visual pathway.

Our software is designed on the Matlab platform and has been compiled for use it on any computer. The user should only download it and install it on their own computer, a process for which an internet connection is needed. Once installed, and without an internet connection, the software offers different possibilities for selecting spatial, temporal and colorimetric parameters of pre-designed stimuli. The users can also enter their own spatial design of the stimulus and complete it with the rest of the characteristics. These characteristics may be tuned to the properties of different cells of the visual pathway allowing different responses depending on the conditions of these cells in each patient.

Two practical sessions are proposed for the student: 1- design of a contrast sensitivity test and 2- design of a color discrimination test.
1. In first practice, we will think about the decisions that are required to design a suitable set of stimuli to make a test for the detection of alterations of the achromatic CSF in a patient. Sinusoidal networks of different spatial frequency and contrast will be used for this purpose.
2. In second practice, the objective is to analyze the factors that must be taken into account when designing a psychophysical diagnostic test that can be used in clinical practice. A test for the detection of alterations of the protan, deutan and tritan color vision is made. The student must justify the decisions taken at each stage of the design.

With these strategies we trust that they are understanding the need to relate the acquired knowledge from different subjects and to enhance their problem-solving capabilities assuming a more active role.

Keywords:

Mooc, visual perception, virtual lab, psychophysics.