Article Green Open Access 2022

Information security education based on job profiles and the e-CF

Higher Education, Skills and Work-based Learning
Journal · Vol. 12 · Issue 2 · pp. 294-308
Abstract

Purpose: The information security field requires standardised education. This could be based on generic job profiles and a standard competence framework. The question is whether this is possible and feasible. To find out, the author did a case study: developing an information security master curriculum based on a generic PVIB job profile and the underlying competence framework e-CF. Design/methodology/approach: The research is a case study, using Design Science. Starting point is the specification of the learning goals for a cybersecurity master curriculum, using a generic PvIB job profile and the underlying competence framework e-CF. The curriculum has subsequently been developed, using backward design. Thereafter, the curriculum has been submitted for accreditation to test the successfulness of the approach. Findings: A generic job profile and a competence framework such as the e-CF support the development of standardised education. The generic PVIB job profile used works well. The e-CF can be useful, but requires modifications and the introduction of sub-competences. However, the main complaint concerning the e-CF is the use of examples instead of mandatory content. Originality/value: Competence frameworks are available to formulate job descriptions, and are also suited for developing standardised education. Little research has been done on this. This case study shows that a competence framework is a useful tool for developing standardised education, although the e-CF may not be the most appropriate. © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited.

Keywords

Author Keywords

Competence Higher vocational education e-Competence Framework Information security Job profile

Index Keywords

Author Affiliations
Centre of Expertise Cyber Security, The Hague University of Applied Sciences, The Hague, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands
Funding & Acknowledgements
No funding information
References 10 References
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