For my master’s thesis, I created a cybersecurity educational application modeled after Duolingo.

Title: Introducing SecureMind: A Game-Changing App for Cybersecurity Learning

Hello everyone,

I’m excited to share with you a project that has been a significant part of my journey through my master’s degree. I’ve developed an innovative iOS application named SecureMind, designed to educate the general public on the essentials of cybersecurity. Drawing inspiration from Duolingo’s effective learning methodology, this app aims to transform how individuals approach cybersecurity education.

The Purpose Behind SecureMind

SecureMind is the culmination of extensive research into mobile microlearning and its potential to engage users in acquiring critical cybersecurity knowledge. To enhance my research, I invite users to voluntarily share their app usage data, enabling me to assess how different features are being utilized and identify areas for improvement.

Learn Cybersecurity the Fun Way

The app is structured into clearly defined chapters and sections, each focusing on key cybersecurity concepts. We begin by assessing the user’s existing knowledge, followed by a comprehensive test at the end of each chapter to showcase their learning progress. Each section is presented in bite-sized snippets, accompanied by quizzes to reinforce understanding of the material.

To facilitate long-term retention of information, users gain access to a dedicated library filled with previously learned concepts once they complete the first chapter. This library expands with each subsequent chapter completed. Additionally, I strive to keep users updated with the latest trends and news in the cybersecurity realm through short blog posts.

Engaging Learning Experience Through Gamification

To ensure that learning is not a dull experience, SecureMind incorporates gamification techniques. Users can engage with a Security IQ system that rewards them with points for mastering the fundamentals, utilizing the library, and consuming news content. Maintaining a high IQ score becomes a challenge, as inactivity leads to a gradual decrease in their score. Users can also earn coins, which can be used to personalize the app, including customizing the app icon and opting for unique titles for notifications.

In developing the content for SecureMind, I drew inspiration from the DiFü initiative, which is supported by the German government, ensuring that the information is both relevant and reliable. My supervisor has also closely reviewed the content to maintain accuracy.

Join Me on This Learning Adventure

I warmly invite you to try out SecureMind and share it with your friends and family. Your support would significantly contribute to my research efforts in making cybersecurity knowledge accessible to everyone.