Most would agree that cyber security is no child’s play, but an Open University (OU) course is keen to borrow the latest gaming techniques to teach adults new skills in the field.
OU tech experts have developed a new, FREE course teaching the basics of cyber security to beginners using game-based assessments, making the subject matter accessible to all.
The Gamified Intelligent Cyber Aptitude and Skills Training course, also known as GICAST, will provide industry standard training and open the door to a new career in cyber security.
The eight-week part time course, funded by NESTA and the Department for Education, uses a series of game-based scenarios to teach learners the fundamental concepts of cyber security and understanding of online safety. In addition, the course lays a foundation for learners who wish to pursue cyber security as a career.
Award-winning careers support
GICAST will provide support to learners through the award-winning careers development website, Stay Nimble. The platform will offer learners coaching to help them make that first step towards a career in cyber security.
Dr Chitra Balakrishna, Senior Lecturer in Cyber Security at The Open University, said:
“There is growing demand for qualified cyber security professionals as the move to online has become commonplace. However, a job in cyber security may seem out of reach for many people.
“With the cyber security expertise at The Open University and the career coaching by Stay Nibble, learners can develop a real plan of how to get from where they are now to where they want to be in the thriving cyber sector.”
The game-based scenarios de-mystify cyber security concepts for the learners and on completing the game, they will be directed to a personalised learning pathway to help address the gap in thier knowledge and understanding of cyber security.
People who successfully complete GICAST will earn an industry recognised credit in the form of a digital badge and an opportunity to become certified in Cisco’s Cyber Essentials and CyberOps training.
The course is open to people in England, aged 24 to 65, with no degree qualification and currently unemployed or at risk of redundancy due to the pandemic.
The course will open on 4 January 2021 so register your interest at https://bit.ly/OUCyberCourse to secure a place, and gain exclusive access to the careers development website, Stay Nimble.
