Given the persistently high global prevalence of ophthalmic diseases, the field of ophthalmic education faces significant challenges in addressing the shortage of specialized professionals. So this study explored practical pathways to enhance clinical skills and professional competence in ophthalmology students through self-directed learning teaching models. The proposed dual-path model, combining ideological guidance with self-directed learning, demonstrateed innovative advantages by cultivating professional skills while emphasizing ethical education, thereby enabling students to make responsible decisions in complex clinical scenarios. Evidence suggested that integrating ideological and political education with self-directed learning (SDL) not only strengthened students' professional expertise but also fostered the development of sound values, a positive outlook on life, and a strong sense of social responsibility. Furthermore, this model enhanced intrinsic motivation, critical thinking, and innovation. This shift toward student-centered educational paradigms not only nurtured social responsibility and professional ethics but also provided a theoretical and practical foundation for advancing ophthalmic education.