Development of a computer aided learning tool for cryptography

Abstract

With the rapid growth and progress in communication systems, security aspects of Internet, e-commerce, smart cards, etc., has become a key issue in information and communication technology. Cryptographic algorithms are the core of such security systems, offering security services of data privacy, data integrity, authenticity and non-repudiation. For this reason, cryptography is now accepted in one of the important courses in computer science, computer science and engineering, ICT and related disciplines. Since complexities are the main theme of any cryptographic algorithm, students usually get difficulties in understanding full particulars of algorithm using traditional method such as paper based, white board or slide presentation within limited time. So, Computer Aided Learning Tool (CALT) for learning cryptographic algorithm is very much necessary due to its effectiveness in teaching complex subjects. This research project presents a CALT, Crypto-master: an integrated web based platform for learning major cryptographic algorithms such as DES, triple DES, AES and RSA. The web application presents step by step operation of different cryptographic algorithms. To make understanding easy, it includes explanation of how each step is generated from previous step. Along with visualization, the application offers all the relevant information in a centralized place. The interface is very user friendly that helps even a beginner to understand the basics of the algorithms using step by step approach with sufficient visualization. It facilitates the students to learn ins and outs of cryptography algorithms without any help of instructor. The researcher or crypto application developer can also use the application for testing or validating their data using cryptographic algorithm. The GUI based web application is developed with JSP, JavaScript, bootstrap, Java Struts framework. The application also uses oracle database for user feedback. The CALT has three sections: synopsis, visualization and evaluation. The synopsis helps the user to learn algorithm history, usage and how it works. The visualization assists the user to learn the algorithm with visualization of each step and perform self study. In evaluation sections, user puts the feedback that aid to assess the effectiveness of learning through the Crypto-master. The CALT has been proved effective for students as well as for professional software application developers in a survey. So, the Crypto-master brings the dream to the real life which sparks the interest of the students and beginners in cryptography education which in turn motivates them to implement the information security in communications, computer systems, electronic commerce, and in the emerging information society.