Evaluating the effectiveness of practical exercises in cryptography and authentication courses of cybersecurity education

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55630/mem.2025.54.118-124

Keywords:

authentication, cryptography, cybersecurity education, practical exercises, survey

Abstract

This study analyzes the effectiveness of practical exercises in higher education cybersecurity programs, specifically within the disciplines of authentication and cryptography. Based on student feedback, the study assesses the alignment between theoretical and practical components, and proposes improvements for better industry preparedness. The findings highlight that both individual and teamwork-based exercises significantly enhance students understanding of key concepts. The results emphasize the need for a balanced curriculum that integrates practical skills, bridging the gap between theory and real-world application, and preparing students for evolving cybersecurity challenges.

Author Biography

Dilyana Dimitrova, Department of Information Technologies, Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy, Varna, Bulgaria

Department of Information Technologies
Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy
73, Vasil Drumev Str.
Varna, Bulgaria

References

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X. Hu, W. Jiang, C. Ma, C. Yu. Security and design analysis of certificateless signature schemes as teaching cases of cryptography and security course education. 9th International Conference on Information Technology in Medicine and Education (ITME), (2018), 601–605. https://doi.org/10.1109/itme.2018.00138.

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Published

2025-03-27

How to Cite

[1]
Dimitrova, D. 2025. Evaluating the effectiveness of practical exercises in cryptography and authentication courses of cybersecurity education. Mathematics and Education in Mathematics. 54, (Mar. 2025), 118–124. DOI:https://doi.org/10.55630/mem.2025.54.118-124.

Issue

Section

Section C: Education in Mathematics