Date of Defense
19-4-2024 9:00 AM
Location
E1-1036
Document Type
Dissertation Defense
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy in Informatics and Computing
College
College of Information Technology
First Advisor
Dr. Saed Alrabaee
Keywords
National Cybersecurity Strategic Plans (NCSP), GQO+Strategies, Alternative Digital Credentials (ADCs), Cybersecurity Capacity Development, Life-long learning.
Abstract
This dissertation delves into enhancing cybersecurity education by aligning academic curricula with national cybersecurity strategic plan (NCSP) objectives, emphasizing the crucial role of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in developing a skilled cybersecurity workforce. Analyzing ten NCSPs, it identifies strategic themes and gaps between national goals and HEI offerings. The study reviews NCSP guidelines, international cybersecurity indices, and literature, including the NICE-NIST framework, to develop a framework that bridges the educational gap, improving learning outcomes and arming students with vital skills, knowledge, and competencies. Furthermore, it introduces a platform for continuous cybersecurity learning, employing micro-credentials, blockchain technology, and AI-driven systems. Based on Qualification Reference Frameworks and UAE’s governance, this platform addresses the cybersecurity professional shortage by advocating lifelong learning. It contrasts the UAE’s Qualifications Framework with traditional models, incorporating Alternative Digital Credentials (ADCs) and leveraging blockchain and AI for personalized learning paths. Investigating international standards and competency frameworks, such as NICE-NIST and Bloom's taxonomy, the research contributes to cybersecurity capacity building, highlighting the impact of ADCs, blockchain, and AI in transforming education and training. This dissertation stands as a testament to the power of innovative educational strategies and technologies in developing a competent global cybersecurity workforce.
Included in
CYBERSECURITY CONTINUOUS LEARNING TOWARDS FULFILLING NATIONAL CYBERSECURITY STRATEGIC PLAN MANDATES
E1-1036
This dissertation delves into enhancing cybersecurity education by aligning academic curricula with national cybersecurity strategic plan (NCSP) objectives, emphasizing the crucial role of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in developing a skilled cybersecurity workforce. Analyzing ten NCSPs, it identifies strategic themes and gaps between national goals and HEI offerings. The study reviews NCSP guidelines, international cybersecurity indices, and literature, including the NICE-NIST framework, to develop a framework that bridges the educational gap, improving learning outcomes and arming students with vital skills, knowledge, and competencies. Furthermore, it introduces a platform for continuous cybersecurity learning, employing micro-credentials, blockchain technology, and AI-driven systems. Based on Qualification Reference Frameworks and UAE’s governance, this platform addresses the cybersecurity professional shortage by advocating lifelong learning. It contrasts the UAE’s Qualifications Framework with traditional models, incorporating Alternative Digital Credentials (ADCs) and leveraging blockchain and AI for personalized learning paths. Investigating international standards and competency frameworks, such as NICE-NIST and Bloom's taxonomy, the research contributes to cybersecurity capacity building, highlighting the impact of ADCs, blockchain, and AI in transforming education and training. This dissertation stands as a testament to the power of innovative educational strategies and technologies in developing a competent global cybersecurity workforce.