Volume 3
Abstract: Training a skilled cybersecurity workforce is a complex problem, similar to the challenge of securing cyberspace itself. A growing number of organizations and academic institutions use cybersecurity competitions to increase students’ interest and cybersecurity-related knowledge. Although literature exists regarding cybersecurity competitions, current research regarding the participant’s perspective is lacking. Using Eccles’ Situated Expectancy Value Theory (SEVT), this study explored how students were motivated by participating in cybersecurity Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions. Results found participants who identified as female had less expectancy of success compared to those who identified as male. Results also showed that interest and attainment were the elements of motivation that were most salient while responses regarding perceived costs was the lowest construct as students did not believe participation required much preparation or stress. This study contributes to CTF developers and educators’ efforts to build CTFs that successfully engage students in cybersecurity education. Download this article: CPPJ - V3 N1 Page 4.pdf Recommended Citation: Beauchamp, C., Matusovich, H., (2024). A Mixed-Method Study Exploring Student Motivation Participating in Cybersecurity CTF Competitions. Cybersecurity Pedagogy and Practice Journal 3(1) pp 4-26. https://doi.org/10.62273/QOGS6742 | ||||||