A Comparison of Cryptography Courses

Title: A Comparison of Cryptography Courses

Research Question: How effective are different approaches to teaching cryptography in engaging and educating students, particularly in a mixed-discipline setting?

Methodology: The researcher taught two courses on cryptography, one at Duke University aimed at non-mathematics majors and one at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology aimed at mathematics and computer science majors. Both courses incorporated technical and societal aspects of cryptography, with varying emphases. The paper will discuss the strengths and weaknesses of both courses and compare the differences in the author's approach.

Results: The "Cryptography and Society" course at Duke University was designed to introduce students to the basic ideas of modern cryptography and its applications. It was primarily aimed at non-mathematics majors but allowed mathematics majors to enroll. The course had a mix of students from various majors and levels, and the mathematics requirement was minimal. The course covered modern cryptographic protocols, their strengths and weaknesses, and their impact on society and daily life. It also addressed the mathematical aspects of cryptography.

The course at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology was more technically oriented and aimed at mathematics and computer science majors. It focused more on the mathematical and algorithmic aspects of cryptography, with less emphasis on societal implications.

Implications: Both courses had their strengths and weaknesses. The Duke course was successful in engaging students from various disciplines and making them aware of the societal implications of cryptography. However, it may have been challenging for some students to grasp the mathematical aspects of cryptography without a stronger mathematical background. The Rose-Hulman course effectively covered the technical aspects of cryptography but might have benefited from more emphasis on societal implications to provide a more complete understanding of cryptography.

Overall, the comparison highlights the importance of balancing technical and societal aspects in teaching cryptography and the potential benefits of a mixed-discipline approach. The author's approach to teaching cryptography engaged students from various backgrounds and successfully integrated technical and societal aspects of cryptography.

Link to Article: https://arxiv.org/abs/0401002v1 Authors: arXiv ID: 0401002v1