Rock CS: Rocky Mountain Computer Science Conference for P-12 Educators

Teach Your Students Cryptography By Using the Python Programming Language

The Python programming language is extensively used in cybersecurity. Cryptography is a distinct and important role in the (quite large) cybersecurity arena of positions. By helping kids program a cipher (encrypted message) in Python, the teacher is accomplishing two things: Introducing students to Python, and teaching them a bit about crypto. Crypto is a **huge** topic, so secondary teachers cannot expect students to run away with it. But teachers can be successful in teaching basic cryptographic ideas with Python programming.

Attendees should have their favorite Python Integrated Development Environment (IDE) installed on their computer. I would recommend PyCharm Edu if teachers do not have a preference. https://www.jetbrains.com/pycharm-edu/

Standards:
CSTA (CP) 5.3.B.4 and 9, (CL) 5.3.B.1 and 5, and (CPP) 5.3.B.3, and 4