[Experience with a combined test exam in dermatovenereology]

The traditional oral examination in clinical dermatology is not devoid of shortcomings, the principal of which are subjective estimation of the students' knowledge and a random control. A written examination, representing a complex of tests, is devoid of these drawbacks. The authors share their two-year experience with such examinations, combined with the control of mastering the practical skills in dermatology and venereology. The major advantages of a written test-based examination in a clinical discipline are an objective estimation of the students' knowledge, a universal complex of tests equally difficult for all the students, permitting the control of knowledge in practically all sections of the curriculum, and a more rational organization of the examination session. Such examinations are recommended for dermatology and venereology chairs.