Distance Learning Practices: A Reflective Study

Abstract

Well-planned online delivery of content can be a challenging experience and is of significant importance, especially these days due to COVID-19 pandemic. Online delivery of computer security subjects in a pure distance learning environment is no exception. The modules should have high quality and be designed in an engaging, interactive and fun way for students, who happen to have different motivation levels and educational backgrounds. The quality of education for distance learning degrees varies significantly, so does the experience of the teaching staff. There have been few studies focusing on the teaching practices of online degrees especially those with a computer security major. This work presents a comprehensive reflective paper that demonstrates the evolution of a world-class distance learning degree at the University of Liverpool (UoL) in the UK over the last ten years. We report on the teaching practices adopted in cybersecurity-related modules/courses as well as the experience of the first author (who is a subject matter expert for cybersecurity-related modules) in teaching those modules. The paper describes the structure of the modules and how online teaching/learning is taking place along with the assessment types. Besides, we discuss both positive and negative observations and the lessons learnt. We believe our work can pave the way for successful and well-planned online delivery of cybersecurity modules in future.