The internet and cyber-security - face to face CM232 / H01

At the end of this course we will provide a 90 minute revision session, with catering, to help you brush up on any gaps in your knowledge and give you the confidence to complete your CSA journey and take the test.

The internet has transformed modern life bringing rich capability to networked computers. Find out how the internet works and how it has produced many new threats, resulting in the rapidly growing cybersecurity industry.

You will build on knowledge of local computer networks to cover the globally connected systems forming the internet. Learn how protocols are used to transfer data across the internet and how each of the layers within the TCP/IP stack functions.

You’ll also develop your knowledge of computer security including measures to guard against a range of threats, both technical and behavioural. Learn about vulnerabilities – where they come from, how they are exploited, and what can be done about them; knowledge which helps inform your students and make them safer online citizens.

Mapped closely to the specifications of GCSE computer science, the course will provide you with deepened knowledge and confidence that your students are equipped for their exams.

Who is it for?

This course is for current or prospective teachers of GCSE computer science with some understanding of computer science principles.

Prior knowledge:

You’ll need to know about the basic components and topologies of a computer network and the protocols used to share data across them. We recommend the course: Fundamentals of computer networks

If you are entirely new to computer science, we recommend first participating in our one-day course: An introduction to computer systems, networking and security in GCSE computer science

Course units:

• 01 | Network addresses – learn how data is transferred across a network using both IP and MAC addresses.
• 02 | TCP/IP protocols – explore the purpose of network protocols, the TCP/IP stack and how this is used to communicate data over networks. You’ll also learn why the stack model is divided into layers.
• 03 | Protocols – deepen your knowledge of TCP/IP and how it differs to UDP. Explore ways the topic can be effectively taught.
• 04 | The internet and network security – learn how the domain name system (DNS) is used to allow users to access specific content on the internet, and the impact common attacks can have upon individuals and businesses.
• 05 | Security – explore the common threats of using networks, the impact they could pose to a computer system and methods that can be used to prevent against them.

How will you learn?

Active learning in groups and expert teaching from an experienced subject specialist. Examination practice with guidance linked to the specific requirements of the main awarding bodies. The course will model teaching approaches that can be taken back to the classroom.

Do you prefer to learn remotely?

If so, take a look at:

The internet and cyber-security

How long is the course?

This is a one-day course which consists of five hours of teaching time.

Recommended next steps:

This course forms part of the Computer Science Accelerator Programme. To learn how computers work internally, we recommend the one-day course: Computer systems: input, output and storage delivered by your local Computing Hub, or the online course How Computers Work: Demystifying Computation

This course is delivered as part of the National Centre for Computing Education.

At the end of this course we will provide a 90 minute revision session, with catering, to help you brush up on any gaps in your knowledge and give you the confidence to complete your CSA journey and take the test.