Exploring the gamification of cybersecurity education in higher education institutions: An analytical study

Abstract

Our world has become increasingly dependent on electronic technology. As most economic, cultural, and social activities are conducted in cyberspace, how to protect data from cyberattacks has arisen as a prominent challenge. Cybersecurity education and training that improves awareness among personnel is recognized as an effective approach. Higher education institutions (HEIs) have become prime cyberattack targets as they hold vast amounts of valuable research and personal data. This paper analyses the state of cybersecurity in HEIs and the problems of cybersecurity education, and proposes the solution of gamification of cybersecurity education. A detailed feasibility analysis and recommendations for developing cybersecurity education games are provided. This paper expands the theories of gamified cybersecurity education in China, and sheds light on enhancing the effectiveness of cybersecurity education in HEIs through games.

Keywords

• higher education institutions
• cybersecurity education
• cyberattacks
• gamification