Computers and the invention of the internet have and will continue to revolutionize our world. Cyberspace offers endless opportunities to connect, share, create, and collaborate for the youngest to the most elderly people, for the smallest of businesses to the largest of corporations, and for the tiniest of towns to the most powerful countries. This digitally connected environment also affords many opportunities for cybercrime, the fastest-growing area of crimes involving computer networks. How can we continue to share information, collect data, communicate effectively, and foster collaboration through technology, while still ensuring that we know whom we are communicating with and that the information that we store or share online is protected?
This course will provide an interesting and engaging look at the concept of cybersecurity. During the initial Introduction to Cybersecurity unit, students will begin by exploring the latest threats that exist in our digital world and then investigate the cyber laws that have emerged as a result. In Unit 2, Internet Fundamentals, students will explore digital communication and the internet, and investigate why and how protective measures are necessary across networks. During the third unit on Coding for Security, students will develop fundamental programming skills in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript that enable them to investigate software and encryption security measures. In the final unit on Cyberprotection, students will reflect on what behaviors and actions are consistent with good cyber hygiene as well as the various careers associated with cybersecurity.
Students will examine their digital footprint early in the course, reflect on this footprint throughout the course, and finally determine how they can better protect themselves going forward. Students will consistently stay informed on the latest cybersecurity threats by blogging about the latest global news and exploring a different career associated with Cybersecurity each topic. In a final project, students will create a public service announcement to inform the public about the importance of cybersecurity and describe key steps that are essential to protect one’s digital footprint in cyberspace.
It’s no surprise that in a rapidly advancing digital age, cybersecurity is one of the fastest growing career fields and is at the forefront of everyone’s minds now, and as we look toward the future, to predict and protect from the next generation of cyber threats. This survey of cybersecurity threats, protective measures, and best practices is essential knowledge for all students, as they must be informed users of cyberspace to be productive citizens in today’s world, and to prepare for virtually all careers of tomorrow.
About the Self-Paced Course Model
Self-Paced courses are comprehensive and designed for students who need or desire more flexibility in their academic schedule. VHS Learning teachers will regularly interact with students in asynchronous discussions, will host weekly office hours, and will invite students to monthly 1-on-1 progress meetings. Teachers will support students, answer questions, and provide feedback on work. Students will work independently on course activities; the course does not include class discussion assignments or other collaborative work.
This course is open enrollment; students may register and begin at any time. Students must maintain enrollment for a minimum of 6 weeks and have up to 20 weeks to complete all assignments in the course. It is expected that students will work for approximately 95 hours to complete this course, though the amount of time may vary depending on a student’s work habits and comfort with the material.