Influence of Visual Acuity and Stereoacuity on Academic Outcomes among Rural and Urban Students

Background: Visual acuity and stereoacuity are essential for students’ academic success, particularly in early education when visual learning is predominant. Any impairments in these visual functions can adversely affect a child’s ability to engage in schoolwork, leading to suboptimal academic performance. Aim: This study aims to assess the impact of visual acuity and stereoacuity on the academic performance of children aged 6-12 years from rural and urban areas within Pune district. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 900 students, with 450 each from rural and urban areas of Pune district. Comprehensive eye examinations were performed to assess visual acuity and stereoacuity using standard Snellen charts and Titmus Fly stereo tests. Academic performance was evaluated through teacher-reported grades and standardized test scores. The data were analyzed to examine the relationship between visual function and academic outcomes in both urban and rural settings. Results: The study found that 18% of rural students and 10% of urban students had subnormal visual acuity, while stereoacuity impairments were observed in 15% of rural and 8% of urban students. Students with visual or stereoacuity impairments had significantly lower academic performance compared to their peers with normal vision, with the effect being more pronounced in rural areas. Conclusion: Visual acuity and stereoacuity significantly influence academic performance in both rural and urban students, with rural students more adversely affected due to higher rates of undiagnosed visual impairments.