How might teachers optimize the learning of dermatology? Learning outcomes derived from the curriculum will clarify the requirements of dermatology courses for teachers as well as learners. Clinical teachers must learn to exploit opportunities for teaching, use time effectively, target teaching at the right level and evaluate what the students have learnt. Students should have opportunities to participate actively in clinics, under appropriate supervision, as well as to observe clinicians working with patients. Although new technologies may complement clinical teaching, these are no substitute for clinical experience.