Cybersecurity training that engages learners & evolves with the latest threats

While the significance of cybersecurity has been a topic of discussion for business leaders for years, too often the onus of responsibility often still rests with the IT department.

The 2022 Gartner Board of Directors Survey showed that 88% of board members classed cybersecurity as a business risk while just 12% called it a technology risk. However, a previous survey showed that the CIO or equivalent IT leader was held accountable for cybersecurity at 85% of organisations.

With human error so often at the heart of cybersecurity breaches, it should be a responsibility at least shared between L&D and IT teams to ensure that employees, contractors and external partners receive timely and relevant cybersecurity awareness training. While IT professionals best understand the threats and underlying technology, it’s Learning and Development teams that understand how to upskill and develop people.

• Risk assessment: Identifying and ranking potential vulnerabilities.
• Incident response: How to handle and mitigate a security breach.
• Penetration testing: Ethically hacking systems to find vulnerabilities.
• Knowledge of OS: Windows, Linux, and macOS, with their respective vulnerabilities.
• Network security: Safeguarding a computer network infrastructure.
• Cryptography: Understanding encryption and secure communication methods.

• Basics of cybersecurity
• Introduction to networking
• Operating systems security
• Basic cryptography

• Cloud security
• Mobile security
• Application security
• Incident response & forensics

Advanced threat intelligence
Machine learning & AI in cybersecurity
IoT security
Blockchain and cybersecurity

Making dry topics like cybersecurity engaging during training can be a challenge, but with creativity and the right strategies, even the most mundane subjects can become interesting - even fun!

Here are some ways to make any learning content more engaging:

1. Storytelling:

   Everyone loves a good story. Relate the material to real-world scenarios or use anecdotes that make the topic more relatable.

2. Interactive activities:

   Turn the topic into a game or an interactive session. Use quizzes, polls, and group activities to encourage active participation.

3. Visual aids:

   Use charts, graphs, infographics, and videos. Visual content can make complicated and dry topics easier to understand and more engaging.

4. Analogies and metaphors:

   Relate the topic to something more familiar or exciting. For example, explaining a complex process can be made easier by likening it to a more familiar process.

5. Break it down:

   Divide the topic into smaller, more digestible chunks. Short sessions with breaks in between can help maintain attention.

6. Real-world application:

   Show them how the topic is used in real life. If possible, bring in experts from the field or take them on field trips.

7. Hands-on learning:

   Allow learners to apply what they've learned in a practical way. This could be through labs, simulations, or role-playing activities.

8. Humour:

   While it's essential to remain professional, a little humour can go a long way in making a dry topic more enjoyable.

9. Feedback and discussion:

   Allow for open discussions where learners can share their thoughts, experiences, and questions related to the topic. This interaction can often lead to deeper understanding and interest.

10. Diverse learning methods:

    Recognise that people have different learning styles. Some may prefer reading, while others might be more engaged by listening or doing. Incorporate a mix of methods to cater to different learners.

11. Technology integration:

    Use technology like interactive e-learning platforms to make the learning experience more immersive.

12. Case studies:

    Instead of just presenting facts or theories, use case studies to show how the topic applies in real-world scenarios.

13. Rewards and recognition:

    Rewarding learners for their achievements, no matter how small, can motivate them to engage with the topic.

14. Challenge and competition:

    Introduce elements of challenge or competition. This can be done through games, quizzes, or debates.

Remember, the goal is not only to transfer knowledge but to create an environment where learners are motivated to engage, understand, and retain the information. The key is to understand your audience and tailor your approach based on their needs and interests.

• Quantum computing: Will pose new challenges and opportunities for encryption.
• 5G networks: Will introduce new network vulnerabilities, as connectivity becomes ubiquitous.
• Remote work: Continued growth in remote work will present unique security challenges. Most large organisations now have a number of remote workers, and a hybrid workforce is becoming increasingly commonplace.