Beyond Human-Centric Models in Cybersecurity Education: A Pilot Posthuman Analysis of the NICE Workforce Framework for Cybersecurity

A critical posthuman analysis examining the limitations of human-centric approaches in the NICE Workforce Framework for Cybersecurity.
Research Papers
Workforce Development
Cybersecurity Education
Posthuman Theory
Author
Affiliation

Ryan Straight

University of Arizona

Published

Monday, November 18, 2024

Doi

10.62915/2472-2707.1210

Abstract

This study applies a posthuman lens to the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) Workforce Framework, examining two key Work Roles in cybersecurity education. Employing a novel posthuman coding scheme, the associated Tasks, Knowledge, and Skills (TKS) statements were analyzed. Findings reveal significant posthuman elements within the framework while identifying opportunities for further integration. The analysis demonstrates a strong presence of human-technology entanglement and adaptive learning concepts, yet highlights areas where the framework could emphasize system complexity and interconnectedness. This research contributes to ongoing discussions on cybersecurity education in complex technological landscapes, proposing a theoretical framework for integrating posthuman concepts into curricula and laying groundwork for future inquiry.

Research Significance

This pilot analysis makes several key contributions to cybersecurity education:

  1. Provides the first posthuman critique of the NICE Workforce Framework
  2. Identifies limitations of human-centric approaches in cybersecurity workforce development
  3. Proposes theoretical extensions to account for posthuman dimensions
  4. Offers practical implications for framework evolution

Theoretical Framework

The study employs multiple theoretical lenses:

  • Posthuman theory in educational contexts
  • Critical framework analysis
  • Workforce development theory
  • Socio-technical systems perspectives

Key Arguments

The research advances several critical arguments about the NICE Framework:

  1. Current human-centric orientation may limit framework effectiveness
  2. Posthuman perspectives offer valuable insights for framework evolution
  3. Workforce development must account for human-technology entanglement
  4. Framework updates should reflect posthuman realities of cybersecurity work

Implications for Practice

The analysis suggests several practical implications:

  • Need for framework evolution to reflect posthuman realities
  • Integration of distributed agency concepts
  • Recognition of human-technology partnerships
  • Updates to competency models and skill definitions

Research Impact

This work provides foundational insights for:

  • Future framework development
  • Cybersecurity workforce preparation
  • Educational program design
  • Understanding of posthuman dimensions in security work

Access the Full Article

The complete paper is available in the Journal of Cybersecurity Education, Research and Practice or via DOI: 10.62915/2472-2707.1210

Reuse

Citation

BibTeX citation:
@article{straight2024,
  author = {Straight, Ryan},
  title = {Beyond {Human-Centric} {Models} in {Cybersecurity}
    {Education:} {A} {Pilot} {Posthuman} {Analysis} of the {NICE}
    {Workforce} {Framework} for {Cybersecurity}},
  journal = {Journal of Cybersecurity Education, Research and Practice},
  volume = {2024},
  number = {1},
  date = {2024-11-18},
  url = {https://ryanstraight.com/research/2024-11-18-beyond-human-centric-models/},
  doi = {10.62915/2472-2707.1210},
  langid = {en},
  abstract = {This study applies a posthuman lens to the National
    Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) Workforce Framework,
    examining two key Work Roles in cybersecurity education. Employing a
    novel posthuman coding scheme, the associated Tasks, Knowledge, and
    Skills (TKS) statements were analyzed. Findings reveal significant
    posthuman elements within the framework while identifying
    opportunities for further integration. The analysis demonstrates a
    strong presence of human-technology entanglement and adaptive
    learning concepts, yet highlights areas where the framework could
    emphasize system complexity and interconnectedness. This research
    contributes to ongoing discussions on cybersecurity education in
    complex technological landscapes, proposing a theoretical framework
    for integrating posthuman concepts into curricula and laying
    groundwork for future inquiry.}
}
For attribution, please cite this work as:
Straight, Ryan. 2024. “Beyond Human-Centric Models in Cybersecurity Education: A Pilot Posthuman Analysis of the NICE Workforce Framework for Cybersecurity.” Journal of Cybersecurity Education, Research and Practice 2024 (1). https://doi.org/10.62915/2472-2707.1210.