Abstract

The realities of cyberattacks have become more and more prevalent in the world today. Due to the growing number of these attacks, the need for highly trained individuals has also increased. Because of a shortage of qualified candidates for these positions, there is an increasing need for cybersecurity education within high schools and universities. In this thesis, I discuss the development and evaluation of Cybermatics, an educational simulation, or playable case study, designed to help students learn and develop skills within the cybersecurity discipline.

This playable case study was designed to allow students to gain an understanding of the field of cybersecurity and give them a taste of what a day in the life of a cybersecurity professional might be. It focuses on being an authentic experience so that students feel immersed within the simulation while completing their tasks, instead of regarding it as merely another assignment. We ran a pilot test of this playable case study in a university-level, introductory Information Technology class of 51 students. We found that Cybermatics increased the selfreported likelihood of over 70% of participants to pursue a career in a cybersecurity field. It also helped students understand the importance of leadership and ethics to a cybersecurity professional. We also found that the simulation helped students feel more confident about their ability to complete cybersecurity-related tasks.

Degree

College and Department

Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering and Technology; Technology

Rights

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