ASSESSING STUDENT COMPETENCIES THROUGH A SERVICE-LEARNING PROJECT IN CYBERSECURITY

Abdullah Alammari

Faculty of Education, Curriculums and Teaching Department, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia, amammari@uqu.edu.sa

Marwan Albahar

College of Computers in Al-Lith, Computer Sceince Department, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia

Sayed Younes

College of Education, Al Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt

Osama Sohaib

Faculty of Engineering and IT, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia

Abstract

Aim/Purpose 

Students with cybersecurity knowledge and experience are required to fill cybersecurity positions. Through service-learning projects, students can gain valuable hands-on experience working with experts from the industry, thereby contributing to shuttering the gap in cybersecurity expertise and preparing them for entry into the workforce. In this study, the perceptions of ten computer science students at Umm Al-Qura University were used to evaluate the benefits and engagement factors of real-world cybersecurity challenges. In addition, we determined required skills needed in the industry. Consequently, Umm Al-Qura University will benefit from service-learning projects by developing service-learning projects that benefit both students and the community.