Computer Science: right4me Computer Science – Insights Into University Modules & The Learning Experience With University of Surrey & University of East Anglia

• University of East Anglia: Sally Earl will introduce content from two modules at UEA: Introduction to Cyber Security and Developing Secure Software. The digital/interconnected world allows us to use many smart devices such as smartphones, smart watches/Fitbit, smart appliances, laptops, tablets, computers etc to access services online. This makes everybody more susceptible to cyber-attacks. The presentation will aim to provide a broad understanding of the key issues relating to cyber security as this topic has become a fundamental part of every day life. The audience will gain insights into: the value of information and data, common cyber security threats, vulnerabilities, and risks. Sally will share what the learning experience is like for Computer Science undergraduates at UEA when accessing these modules.

• University of Surrey: Fun with Hash Functions delivered by Professor Gregory Chockler. Hash functions play a central role in constructing modern secure systems. They are covered in depth in COM3009 (Computer Security), which is one of the core modules of the Computer Science undergraduate curriculum. This minilecture introduces hash functions in a gentle and informal fashion. We will play fun games to gain insight into their inner working and capabilities. We will then review various ways hash functions are being used in today’s secure systems and applications.“

right4me is a series of subject specific webinars for Year 12 & 13 students, and equivalent. The sessions support students’ current studies and interests by giving an insight into curriculum areas covered in university modules. In addition, by hearing from 2 universities for 30 minutes each, students will appreciate how the further study of Computer Science can vary between institutions, contributing to the depth of their HE research and assisting informed decision making.

In this session we will be joined by two universities, University of Surrey & University of East Anglia, who will begin by exploring the fascinating academic content of their Computer Science degree programmes in the form of a mini lecture based on one of their undergraduate modules.

Each university will then offer an insight into the teaching and learning experience related to these modules and to their Computer Science degrees more generally.

Our events are designed so that a group of students can take part from a classroom or students and teachers can take part as individuals, either from school or from home. This means that sessions will continue irrespective of possible school closures.

As a live, participative event, this session will not be recorded but slides and other resources will be shared after the event, where available.

Suitable for: Year 12 & 13 students (and equivalent) studying, or with a possible interest in studying, Computer Science and related disciplines.

Preparation/Pre-Reading: Students may wish to consider the content of the talks and questions they may have. Students can also think about questions they have about studying Computer Science at university level.

The IT Setup: The event will be run on Bluejeans (similar to Zoom) and participants will be able to join using laptops, tablets, and mobile devices. If you are joining as a school group, we recommend connecting with one device and projecting on to a whiteboard. You will be able to interact with the university via a microphone and/or typed comments and questions. Full details will be sent to those who have registered (see below) prior to the event.

Booking a Place: This is free for schools and colleges. If you would like to take part in this event, please register your interest using the link to the registration form below: