Gamification of IT for training in information systems management

TL;DR

This paper explores using Capture The Flag competitions as a gamified approach to enhance cybersecurity training in information systems management courses, aiming to bridge skills gaps and improve student engagement.

Contribution

It introduces a novel integration of CTF competitions into academic curricula and evaluates their impact on students' cybersecurity skills and soft skills development.

Findings

Soft skills significantly enhance cybersecurity skills.

CTF-based training increases student engagement.

Preliminary results show improved skill levels.

Abstract

This article examines the integration of IT competitions, in particular Capture The Flag, into an information systems management course to fill skills gaps, particularly in the field of cybersecurity. An educational CTF team has been set up at IAE Paris-Est with the aim of developing students' skills. Workshops, challenges, and events have been organised to familiarise them with the CTFs and offer them support adapted to their level. Preliminary results show the importance of soft skills in improving cybersecurity skills. The CTF pedagogical team is continuing to experiment with and evaluate these methods to improve the accessibility and effectiveness of cybersecurity training.