An Inquiry into Cybersecurity Knowledge Levels among High School Students in Central Jamaica: A Case Study

Abstract

Introduction: Cybersecurity protects computers, mobile devices, servers, electronic systems, networks, and data from malicious attacks. In the 1970s, researcher Bob Thomas initiated cybersecurity monitoring by creating Creeper, which is capable of traversing the Advanced Research Projects Agency Network (ARPANET.

Objectives are Identifying gaps in cybersecurity awareness and knowledge among secondary school students, assessing how inadequate knowledge impacts students' online safety, and evaluating the specific challenges experienced by secondary school students in Central Jamaica.

Method: The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional survey research design. This design allows for an overarching plan that logically and cogently combines the many study components to ensure the research topic is answered successfully. This research’s target population was a group of eleventh, twelfth, and thirteenth graders from a non-traditional secondary school in Central Jamaica. The secondary school has 2,500 students and about 127 staffmembers.

Findings: One-half of the respondents are familiar with cybersecurity best practices. Accordingly, this group could have a stronger foundation in securing online or system-related activities. The other half needs to familiarise themselves with cybersecurity best practices, highlighting a significant gap in awareness. This lack of knowledge may increase their vulnerability to cyber threats since they may need to employ critical security measures like strong passwords, regular software updates, or data encryption.

Conclusion: Overall, this study underscores the importance of bridging the gap between knowledge and action in cybersecurity education, particularly in the school environment. By enhancing cybersecurity awareness and ensuring practical application, students can be better protected against the increasing threats in the digital world. Schools must develop targeted training programs to increase students' knowledge and ensure they apply these practices to protect themselves and the school's digital infrastructure.