Research in Education: Case Cybersecurity Project

Abstract

This action research investigates the integration of research into education through the Cybersecurity Project
Course at Laurea University of Applied Sciences. The research period spans from spring 2022 to autumn 2024, during which
the course produced research and development material for the DYNAMO project. The course, designed for bachelor-level
students consists of 5 credits, and is aimed at preparing students with essential research skills in safety, security, risk
management, and business information technology (cybersecurity). The study focuses on students' development in applying
cybersecurity competence, project management, risk assessment, risk control, and communication skills. The research is
focused on providing insights that can be used to optimise future educational programs in cybersecurity and risk
management. The course utilises a structured module-based methodology to assess the efficiency of the study unit and its
potential to influence the design of future security and risk management training programs. The learning platform, CANVAS,
enhances students' learning experiences using various tools. This study focuses on evaluating the knowledge and
contributions from the DYNAMO project. Collaboration between cybersecurity students and research, development, and
innovation partners is enhanced through action research principles and empirical observation. The tasks in the course's six
modules and orientation module help students develop their technical and soft skills. The findings show that students had a
positive experience using platforms like Microsoft Teams for project management. Despite some finding the course more
theoretical than expected, they valued the focus on writing scientific articles and understanding governance models. The
course improved students' project management, risk assessment, and ethical considerations in cybersecurity, and led to the
creation of several research papers for the DYNAMO project, offering valuable insights into cybersecurity governance,
awareness, and threat intelligence. The study concludes that integrating research into cybersecurity education fosters a
research culture, enhances flexibility, and prepares students for future projects. Collaboration with companies is crucial for
addressing cybersecurity challenges. The course's structured approach and multi-sensory learning techniques provide an
enjoyable experience, equipping students with valuable professional skills. These findings highlight the importance of
including real-life research projects in the curriculum to improve students' learning and professional competence in
cybersecurity.