Developing assessment literacy through active learning

Postgraduate students studying cyber security for the first time at a new institution can face several challenges. This can include challenges engaging with peers and unfamiliarity with an institution or educational culture. Students are expected to manage this all whilst trying to develop an understanding of cyber security. Consequently, developing confidence, connection with peers and assessment literacy can be demanding. One potential solution to ease this burden is to provide learners an opportunity to develop these skills through an activity early in their course. This can support learners to connect with their peers, develop a sense of what is expected of them (the educational culture) and develop their skills in a low-risk environment. This paper presents an experience report on the design and delivery of a cyber security research-focused active learning practice that affords students the opportunity to connect with peers, develop skills and learn about cyber security using research methods. The practice itself is reported such that other educators could adapt and adopt the practice followed by feedback from learners and a reflection as well as a discussion around the next steps.