Optometry Students’ Attitudes Towards Learning Communication Skills: A CSAS-Optom Study

Abstract

Effective communication is central to patient-centred care; however, optometry curricula often prioritise technical skills over formal communication training. This study investigated optometry students’ attitudes toward learning communication skills using an adapted Communication Skills Attitude Scale (CSAS-Optom) and examined whether attitudes differed by gender, age, and year of study. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among optometry students using the CSAS-Optom, which includes Positive Attitude Scale (PAS) and Negative Attitude Scale (NAS) subscales, alongside demographic variables. Group differences were analysed using ANOVA and independent t-tests, and item-level responses were explored to identify trends relevant to communication education. A total of 189 students responded (response rate 76.5%), with representation across first-, second-, and third-year levels. Overall, students demonstrated positive attitudes toward learning communication skills, reflected by higher PAS scores (mean 4.04 ± 0.11) and lower NAS scores (mean 2.21 ± 0.10). Third-year students, female students, and those aged 18–25 years reported significantly more positive attitudes compared with their counterparts. These findings indicate that optometry students value communication skills training and are receptive to its inclusion in the curriculum. The CSAS-Optom appears to be a reliable tool for assessing attitudes in optometry education, and demographic differences suggest the benefit of tailored approaches to communication skills teaching.