Evaluating the effectiveness of practical exercises in cryptography and authentication courses of cybersecurity education

This study analyzes the effectiveness of practical exercises in higher education cybersecurity programs, specifically within the disciplines of authentication and cryptography. Based on student feedback, the study assesses the alignment between theoretical and practical components, and proposes improvements for better industry preparedness. The findings highlight that both individual and teamwork-based exercises significantly enhance students understanding of key concepts. The results emphasize the need for a balanced curriculum that integrates practical skills, bridging the gap between theory and real-world application, and preparing students for evolving cybersecurity challenges.