Hands-On Learning for Computer Network Security with Mobile Devices

Abstract

Computer network and security courses are essential parts of college computer science curriculum, and hands-on networking experience is well recognized as an effective approach to help students better understand the concepts of network and security. However, existing networking labs are usually server-based and relatively cumbersome, which require a certain level of specialty and resource to set up and maintain the lab environment. Many universities and colleges lack the resources and build-ups in this field and have difficulty providing students with hands-on practice labs. We propose pedagogically- effective affordable, easily adoptable, sustainable, anywhere and anytime accessible mobile device-based labware for security infused networking teaching and hands-on learning. In this paper, we present our mobile device-based hands-on labware (series of lab modules) for computer network and security learning, which is guided by authentic learning principles to immerse students in a real world relevant learning environment. We have been using this labware in teaching computer network, mobile security, and wireless network classes. The student feedback shows that students can learn more effectively when they have hands-on authentic learning experiences.