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Training Teachers to Inspire the Next Generation in Cybersecurity

Building a cybersecurity future: Empowering teachers and students with CompTIA 

Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing fields, yet many high schools struggle to offer courses due to a lack of qualified teachers. This case study highlights how a dedicated program, supported by CompTIA resources, addresses this challenge by training educators from non-technical backgrounds to teach cybersecurity. By equipping teachers with the knowledge, confidence, and certifications they need, this initiative is creating opportunities for students to explore cybersecurity as a career path and preparing them for the digital age.

The Challenge

While working as a middle school librarian, Nikki Hendricks agreed to take on the job of teaching computer science. She quickly realized she needed in-depth training in order to teach this subject successfully, so she dedicated her time to earning a degree in cybersecurity. Nikki knows firsthand that despite the increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals, high schools face significant barriers in offering cybersecurity education:

  1. Shortage of qualified teachers: Many teachers come from non-technical fields, such as librarianship, and lack the foundational knowledge to teach cybersecurity effectively.
  2. Lack of awareness among students: Without exposure to cybersecurity in high school, students are often unaware of the opportunities available in this field when making college and career decisions.
  3. Time constraints for teachers: Teachers often take on cybersecurity training in addition to their existing educational duties, making it challenging to learn and teach a new subject.

The challenge is to create a program that can train teachers, build their confidence, and provide them with the resources needed to teach cybersecurity effectively.

The solution

To address these challenges, a collaborative program has been developed at The University of Texas at Austin's Expanding Pathways in Computing (EPIC) to train teachers in cybersecurity using CompTIA resources. Key elements of the solution include:

  • Comprehensive teacher training: This year-long course is designed to give teachers the time and support needed to learn cybersecurity concepts while managing their existing responsibilities. It allows teachers to work through the material at their own pace and gain a deep understanding of the subject.
  • CompTIA Security+ Certification: Teachers are trained using the CompTIA Security+ objectives, which are the foundation for Texas high school cybersecurity courses. This certification ensures that teachers have the industry-recognized credentials to teach the subject confidently.
  • CompTIA resources: Teachers prepare for their certification exams using CertMaster Learning Labs, CertMaster Practice, and exam vouchers. These tools provide a structured framework for learning and hands-on practice.
  • Supportive network: A collaborative hub connects teachers, allowing them to brainstorm, share resources, and discuss challenges. This network provided the support that many teachers lacked when cybersecurity education was first introduced.

The Results

The program has a transformative impact on both teachers and students:

  • Empowered educators: Teachers from non-technical backgrounds gain the knowledge and confidence to teach cybersecurity effectively. They now feel comfortable teaching the subject and have the tools they need to succeed.
  • Increased student access: With more qualified teachers, more students now have the opportunity to explore cybersecurity as a career path. Early exposure helps students make informed decisions about their futures.
  • Industry-ready curriculum: The Texas high school cybersecurity courses are based on CompTIA Security+ objectives, ensuring that students are learning industry-relevant skills.
  • Sustainable growth: By training teachers and creating a supportive network, the program lays the groundwork for sustainable growth in cybersecurity education.

By investing in teacher training, access to cybersecurity training is expanded for high school students. As cybersecurity educators gain the tools, certifications, and support they need through this program, it will continue to benefit students, schools, and the broader community. The use of CompTIA resources is instrumental in providing a solid foundation for both teachers and students, ensuring that the next generation is prepared to meet the challenges of the digital age.