Problem Book: Authentic Learning with Virtual Machines (2023)

What is the problem to be addressed?

While online cyber security learning platforms that utilise virtual machines can be incredibly useful, access for many users can be prohibitive due to cost.

Virtual machines are extremely useful as cyber security learning resources. Type 2 hypervisors like VirtualBox and UTM are free to use; can be run on Windows, macOS and Linux respectively;  are easily accessible to students outside of institutional environments and have extensive community support channels.

Through virtual machines:

• Learners can experiment with hardware configurations, operating systems, software, security techniques, etc.
• Learning environments can be implemented as sandboxed test rigs or collaborative networked environments.

The Aim of this  Problem Book 

In this problem book forum, we will explore opportunities for creating authentic learning activities and assessments, that utilise virtual machines. The aim is to provide resources that:

• are free to use for learners.
• are free to use for academics.
• are authentic learning focused.
• are authentic assessment focused.
• are scalable and adaptable to multiple use case scenarios.

Automation

A key area of interest is the use of scripting and automation to create customised virtual machines, on a per student basis, at scale! Through automation, variability and differentiated levels of complexity can be improved.

Anticipated Outputs and Outcomes of this Problem Book

• Shared scripts and techniques for auto-generating customised virtual machines
• Shareable virtual machines
• Shared authentic learning activities
• Shared authentic assessment activities