A case for using blended learning and development techniques to aid the delivery of a UK cybersecurity core body of knowledge

Abstract

This article explores the UK's current approach in addressing the cybersecurity skills gap championed by the National Cyber Security Strategy. There have been progressive and elaborate steps taken in the UK toward professionalization of the cybersecurity field. However, cybersecurity knowledge has been labelled as inconsistent when a cybersecurity Chartered status is being proposed. The objective of this analysis was to apply an academic lens over the UK's voyage towards the establishment of a cybersecurity profession. It has been an ambitious but complex endeavor that at times has had alterations of course. Learning from this experience, a blended learning and development approach is now recommended underpinned by an overarching core knowledge framework. Such a framework could join up the existing silos of learning and development activities to benefit from, and build upon, a coherent core knowledge-base for the community. It is argued that this will provide a more satisfactory outcome to enhance the UK's cybersecurity capability on the road to a cybersecurity profession.