Game-based learning of cryptographic algorithms

Abstract

With the increasing reliance on technology, the need for secure information and communication is ever more important. Essential to our modern lives is cryptography. It involves constructing and analyzing protocols that prevent third parties, known as adversaries, from reading private information. Learning more about cryptography would be beneficial to everyone as they can get a deeper understanding on how their data is being protected and how their information may be insecure. This project aims to explore the approach of gamification as a possible and efficient application in improving Cryptography education. Firstly, we describe the current approaches taken in Cryptography education. Next, we explore the application built for the purpose of this paper to understand how the elements of the game can aid in learning Cryptography effectively. Then, the effectiveness of the game is assessed through a series of surveys conducted with people who are both familiar and new to the domain of cryptography.