Mobile device based authentic learning for computer network and security

Computer networking/security courses are essential parts of college computer science curriculum, and hands-on networking/security experience is well recognized as an effective approach to help students understand better about the network concepts, the layered architecture of network protocols, and network security. A new affordable and easily-adoptable approach to networking/security labs is desirable to enhance network teaching and learning. In this paper, we present our mobile device-based hands-on labware for computer network/security learning, which is guided by authentic learning principles to immerse students in a real world relevant learning environment. The developed labware has been used in various networking and security related courses, and students claim that they can learn more with the hands-on authentic learning experience.