Teaching Cybersecurity: A Handbook for Teaching the Cybersecurity Body of Knowledge in a Conventional Classroom

This book aims to provide a unified understanding of cybersecurity for K-12 educators, based on a single authoritative definition of the field. It is written through a simple story, with explanations that are easy to understand and geared toward teaching. The eight component areas are standalone but can be taught separately, providing a comprehensive but easy-to-understand picture of a complicated field.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 228 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Here is the rephrased text:

In the realm of cybersecurity, the reality is that ordinary K-12 educators often lack a comprehensive understanding of the field and may show a limited interest in incorporating it into their lesson plans. However, the teaching of cybersecurity holds a paramount importance on a national scale. This book endeavors to transcend the usual barriers of perplexing technical jargon and industry-specific silos, providing teachers with a unified grasp of the essential concepts that must be imparted.

The foundation of this guidance is rooted in a single, authoritative definition of cybersecurity that was collaboratively established by the three societies responsible for setting standards in computing, software engineering, and information systems in 2017. This definition is presented herein, offering a clear framework for understanding the field.

We recognize that secondary school teachers may not possess extensive expertise in arcane subjects such as software, component, human, or societal security. Consequently, this book adopts a narrative approach to explain cybersecurity, employing a straightforward story to convey its core principles. Within this narrative, we introduce Tom, a high school teacher, and Lucy, a middle school teacher, who are entrusted with developing a cybersecurity course for their respective students. They receive invaluable assistance from the Doc, an unconventional but highly skilled individual in the field. Together, they navigate the intricacies of each topic area, fostering mutual understanding and aiding each other in effectively imparting the knowledge required by students at different stages of the educational journey.

The explanations provided in this book are designed to be accessible, straightforward, and primarily focused on the teaching aspect rather than delving into the intricacies of actual cybersecurity work. Each chapter serves as a self-contained explanation of the cybersecurity content within that particular area, tailored to cater to the needs of both middle and high school audiences. The eight component areas of cybersecurity are independent, allowing for their teaching as standalone units. However, it is important to note that they can also be integrated seamlessly to form a comprehensive cybersecurity curriculum.

In conclusion, the teaching of cybersecurity is a critical national priority, and this book aims to bridge the knowledge gap between educators and the field. By presenting a unified understanding of cybersecurity based on a single authoritative definition, accompanied by a narrative approach and accessible explanations, this resource empowers teachers to effectively impart the knowledge and skills necessary to safeguard our digital world.

Weight: 420g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032034096