New Perspectives in Science Education
Designing and Implementing CryptoLearn: A Web-Based Platform for Cryptography and Quantum Computing Education
Sherif Abdelhamid, Assistant Professor, Virginia Military Institute (United States)
James Bangura, Virginia Military Institute (United States)
James Jeffers, Virginia Military Institute (United States)
Mona Aly, Independent Researcher (United States)
Abstract
Introducing students to advanced topics such as cryptography, quantum computing, and post-quantum cryptography at an early age is essential for preparing the next generation to navigate a rapidly evolving digital landscape. This paper presents CryptoLearn, a web-based educational platform designed to make these complex subjects accessible to middle school, high school, and undergraduate students. The platform employs simple, easy-to-understand language, illustrations, and interactive exercises that provide immediate feedback. To further enhance engagement, CryptoLearn integrates game-based learning, including a mystery game in which students decipher encrypted messages to solve a storyline-based challenge.
The platform was implemented using a multi-tier architecture that ensures extensibility, allowing new modules and topics to be seamlessly added over time. To date, CryptoLearn has been deployed in multiple educational contexts, including the CyberSmart workshop for middle school students, the GenCyber camp for high school students, and broader outreach initiatives. Preliminary feedback from participants indicates highly positive perceptions and observable increases in student engagement and motivation. These findings suggest that the combination of interactive exercises, gamification, and narrative-driven activities can serve as effective approaches for introducing advanced computing topics to younger learners.
Future work includes conducting structured student-focused studies, including surveys and interviews, to systematically measure the platform’s impact on learning outcomes, motivation, and long-term interest in cryptography and related fields. Using advanced computing topics with accessible pedagogy and engaging digital formats, CryptoLearn represents an innovative pathway for equipping students with the foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary for the cybersecurity challenges of tomorrow.
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Keywords |
Cryptography education, Quantum computing, Post-quantum cryptography, Game-based learning, Student engagement, Interactive learning, STEM outreach |
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REFERENCES |
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