The Computer Science Program at Norfolk State University is designed to provide students with an exposure to the broad Computer Science spectrum, with an opportunity to create areas of specialization with appropriate applied mathematics and/or computer electives. Generally, the program emphasizes the practical and theoretical aspects of Computer Science and related areas and prepares students for careers as Computer Software Engineers, System Analysts, and other professionals. The program also provides an adequate foundation for students who wish to pursue graduate studies in Computer Science.
GenCyber is a jointly funded effort sponsored by the National Security Agency (NSA) and National Science Foundation (NSF). The GenCyber program provides summer cybersecurity experiences for students and teachers K-12. The goals of the program are as follows: (1) to increase interest in cybersecurity careers and diversity in the cybersecurity workforce of the nation, (2) to help all students understand correct and safe on-line behavior and how they can be good digital citizens, and (3) to improve teaching methods for delivery of cybersecurity content in K-12 curricula.
Norfolk State University held its first GenCyber Professional Development Workshop for High School Teachers in summer 2019. The purpose of this one-week workshop for thirty participants was to introduce a curriculum that high school STEM teachers could use to introduce the GenCyber concepts in their classrooms in a fun and engaging approach. The success of this initial program was evidenced when the grant was awarded the 2020 Innovation in Cybersecurity Education. Teachers who are selected for the workshop will receive instruction in designing lesson plans associated with GenCyber principles. These principles include various topics in cybersecurity, cyber education, and career opportunities as follows: (a) Defense in Depth, (b) Confidentiality and Integrity, (c) Availability, (d) Think Like an Adversary, and (e) Keep It Simple. In addition, the teachers will create a project on current trends in cybersecurity education, workforce development, and an optimal pedagogical approach to STEM in a high school environment.
At the end of the professional development workshop, the teachers will have an increased knowledge in cybersecurity to assist students in making career choices about the ways professionals in cybersecurity contribute to the USA’s workforce. The instructional team for this professional development will consist of higher education faculty, guest speakers, STEM teachers, and students enrolled in computer science programs at Norfolk State University.
There will be two components of the GenCyber Professional Development Workshop: (a) the summer camp program and (b) the post-workshop sessions during the regular public school calendar year where participants will be required to showcase the work they have facilitated with their students.
The dates for the virtual summer workshop will be Monday, June 28, 2021 - Friday, July 9, 2021 from 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm. Each participant will receive a $900.00 stipend when he/she has complete all the camp program requirements.