Course - Human-Centric Approaches to Cyber Security and Data Communication - TTM4210
Human-Centric Approaches to Cyber Security and Data Communication
New from the academic year 2026/2027
About
About the course
Course content
The course is designed to provide an advanced understanding of human-centered approaches to cybersecurity and data communication and an ability to apply this knowledge to existing use cases and in relation to emerging topics. It covers topics such as the interplay between human factors and cybersecurity and data communication, relevant theories and core concepts in this respect (e.g., cybersecurity awareness, usable privacy and security, Quality of Experience (QoE)) and relevant ethical aspects and ethical frameworks.
The course topics are linked to and support several of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, including Gender Equality (SDG5), Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG9), Reduced Inequality (SDG10), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG12), Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG16).
Learning outcome
A. Knowledge:
- Advanced understanding of the characteristics and importance of human factors and of relevant human and ethical, and societal considerations in relation to cybersecurity and data communication.
- Human-centered approaches to cybersecurity and data communication, and key concepts in this respect such as usable privacy and security, User Experience and Quality of Experience.
- Advanced knowledge about empirical research methods and traditions, as well as ethical frameworks for analysing and reflecting around human and societal aspects of cybersecurity and data communication.
B. Skills:
- Applying human-centered design principles to cybersecurity solutions and problems.
- Evaluating and using relevant tools and methods in empirical studies aiming at investigating human and societal aspects in the context of cybersecurity and data communication.
- Critically reflecting on relevant ethical and societal challenges in the context of Human-centric approaches to cybersecurity and data communication
C. General competence:
- Discussing and presenting advanced academic material and own work in a professional manner
- Teamwork skills
- Critical reflection
Learning methods and activities
Lectures, individual assignments, group projects, and group discussions.
Further on evaluation
(the information may be changed until June 15th)
Two assessments provide the basis for the final grade in the course, a portfolio and an individual oral final exam that count for 60% and 40% of the final grade, respectively. Both parts must be passed in order to pass the course. The results for each of the parts are given with a letter grade. Details about the portfolio will be announced at the beginning of the term.
If a student also after the re-sit exam has the final grade F/failed, the student must repeat the entire course. Also in the case a student wants to try to improve their grade, they must repeat both assessments.
Specific conditions
Admission to a programme of study is required:
Cyber Security and Data Communication (MTKOM)
Recommended previous knowledge
TDT4180 Human-Computer Interaction, or equivalent.
Course materials
To be announced at the beginning of the term. The course builds on academic papers and/or book chapters, as well as audiovisual material and digital resources within the fields of Human-centered technology design, Usable security and privacy, Digital ethics, User Experience and Quality of Experience.
Subject areas
- Telematics
Contact information
Course coordinator
Lecturers
Department with academic responsibility
Department of Information Security and Communication Technology