Computer Security in Elementary Schools: Faculty Perception of Curriculum Adequacy

Cybercrime negatively affects people of all ages. Internet-capable computers enable child predators, pornographers, identity thieves, bullies, and other computer-assisted criminals. Computer security education is an essential tool for protecting children. In this study, the researcher examined elementary school instruction for safe, responsible computer usage. Qualitative data were collected from 20 Norwich Public School District elementary school faculty members. The problem was that computer security incidents impacting elementary school age children in the U.S. have continued to increase. If school teachers and administrators did not understand current computer security efforts or the education needed to improve student safety, the students would continue to be at risk for computer system vulnerabilities and cyber harassment. A case study was used to gain insight and understanding of current computer security efforts and cyber security curriculum within the elementary schools of the Norwich Public School District. Surveys and interviews with district administrators and elementary school teachers allowed comparisons for school leadership to see current status, determine future needs, and coordinate efforts with other organizations to improve the online safety of students. The results of this research study confirmed the need for quality in-depth professional development and continued administrative support to improved computer security curriculum for increased safety of students inside and outside the classroom. Future research is needed to examine how advanced professional development opportunities and home-school cooperative efforts can benefit computer security education and safety practices for elementary school students.