Active Learning with the CyberCIEGE Video Game

摘要

Hands-on exercises promote active learning wherestudent experience reinforces material presented inlectures or reading assignments [1]. Drawing thestudent into a meaningful context where studentdecisions have clear consequences strengthens thelearning experience and thus improves the potentialfor internalization of knowledge. The CyberCIEGEvideo game was designed to confront students withcomputer security decision points within anenvironment that encourages experimentation, failureand reflection. The game includes over twentyscenarios that address a range of computer andnetwork security concepts. CyberCIEGE isextensible through use of a scenario developmentlanguage that allows instructors to create andcustomize game scenarios. The Naval PostgraduateSchool uses the game in our Introduction toComputer Security course, and it has been used byhundreds of educational institutions worldwide. Thegame’s tools allow ongoing experimentation with thestudent’s learning experience. Student assessment isfacilitated by log generation, collection and analysis.These logs help the game’s developers identify areaswithin scenarios that may be confusing or mayrequire additional player feedback. Ongoingdevelopment is focused on ultimately adapting thegame and its student assessment functions fordeployment in a broader range of formal educationenvironments.