A Water Balloon Eye Model for Teaching about the Human Eye

Abstract

A physical eye model made of a water balloon and a convex lens is described. It can be used to model how an image is formed in the eye as well as shortsightedness and farsightedness. The model is unique in featuring a fluid-filled “eyeball” with “intraocular pressure,” making it a useful tool for teaching about accommodation and glaucoma. Instructional ideas for the model are suggested.