Features of teaching information disciplines: taking into account the security of information systems and complexes

In today’s era of information society formation, the role of information security and cybersecurity is rapidly increasing, which necessitates the formation of an effective state policy and training of qualified personnel in this area. The article analyses the evolution of approaches to protecting Ukraine’s national interests in the information sphere, examines the content of the basic concepts and focuses on the importance of information and cybersecurity as integral and independent components of national security. It is emphasised that modern threats are taking on new forms, and traditional methods of warfare are being supplemented by information and cyber confrontation. The article pays special attention to the educational aspects of training information security specialists. The author outlines the main pedagogical approaches to teaching cybersecurity disciplines, such as the traditional lecture format, the scrub approach, inviting experts, self-study, project-based learning, research and teaching synergy, and the attack/defence methodology in the laboratory. The advantages and disadvantages of each approach are discussed, with an emphasis on the importance of developing students’ critical thinking, creativity and analytical skills. The results of international educational and research projects involving students, such as CRDF Global and TEMPUS ENGENSEC, are also analysed. Examples of the implementation of the STEM approach to cybersecurity education through student participation in the development of device authentication methods using the physical characteristics of electronic components, as well as through game-based educational projects to develop cyber hygiene skills among students of non-field-specific specialties are presented. The paper emphasises the importance of motivating students to study cybersecurity, in particular through the use of models such as Stenberg’s triarchic theory of intelligence and Bloom’s taxonomy, which promote the integrated development of analytical, practical and creative skills. Particular attention is paid to the implementation of the eduScrum method to increase students’ cognitive activity in the learning process and the development of educational and research projects. The results of the study prove that the integration of active teaching methods and the involvement of students in practical cybersecurity activities are key factors in the formation of highly qualified specialists capable of effectively protecting national interests in the context of information warfare and global cyber threats. The findings can be used to further improve educational programmes, train personnel for the security and defence sector of Ukraine, and develop national strategies for the development of information security.