Lisa Donaldson, Head of Eyecare and Clinical Lead Optometrist at SeeAbility, explains the concept of binocular vision and its crucial role in depth perception and stereo vision.

What is Binocular Vision?

Binocular vision occurs when both eyes work together to focus on a target.

• Each eye captures a slightly different image, and the brain combines these two images to create a single, detailed view.
• This process enables fine-tuned depth perception, which is essential for judging distances and spatial relationships.

Binocular Vision vs. Monocular Vision

• Binocular Vision:

  • Provides stereo vision, offering precise depth perception.
  • Relies on the brain’s ability to superimpose two disparate images into a unified, detailed view.

• Monocular Vision:

  • When one eye is used, depth perception is based on learned monocular cues.
  • Examples of monocular cues include the size of objects (judging distance by how large or small something appears).

Lisa explains:

“When we shut one eye, we still have some degree of depth perception, but it’s based on learned cues. True, fine-detailed depth perception comes from binocular vision.”

Key Facts About Binocular Vision

1. Two Eyes Working Together

   • Binocular vision requires both eyes to focus on a target simultaneously.

2. Combining Images

   • The brain merges two slightly different images from each eye into a single image.

3. Depth Perception

   • This process enables detailed depth perception, sometimes referred to as stereo vision.

Final Thoughts

Binocular vision is vital for accurate depth perception and spatial awareness. Understanding its role can help educators and therapists identify and address potential challenges in children with vision impairments.

For more information on supporting binocular vision development, visit SeeAbility.