Semester of Graduation
Fall 2025
Degree
Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS)
Department
Computer Science
Document Type
Thesis
Abstract
Cryptography is essential for secure communications, and new threats require more students willing to program and interact with cryptographic systems. Previous research is focused on tools for teaching these systems at a high level, teaching through attacks against these systems, and proper use of these systems in software development. In this paper, we seek to design a workshop to use scaffolded Python code to teach how these cryp- tographic systems are designed. We explore the use of code scaffolding for students to program an example implementation of the McEliece crypto- graphic system to build confidence in working with these systems. Using qualitative measures, we observed an increase in student confidence in working with cryptographic systems. This further supports the use of scaffolding in helping students engage with more difficult problem-solving subjects.
Date
11-3-2025
Recommended Citation
Denny, John, "Effects of Code Scaffolding in Increasing Student Confidence in Programming Cryptography" (2025). LSU Master's Theses. 6257.
https://repository.lsu.edu/gradschool_theses/6257
Committee Chair
Shepherd, David
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