Framework for Effective Management of Cyber Security on E-learning Platforms in Public Universities in Kenya

Abstract

Many institutions of higher learning in Kenya are adopting e-learning platforms and like other popular online platforms e-learning allows for extensive exchange of information via the internet and therefore provides fertile grounds for cybercrime. Some e-learning systems supporting online collaborative learning do not sufficiently meet essential security requirements where students can falsify course assessments, present a convincing false identity to others, alter dat e stamps on submitted work among other cybersecurity issues. This calls for an effective way to manage cybersecurity on e-learning platforms. The review of various scholarly sources identified an existing gap, which pointed to a deficiency of a framework to manage cybersecurity on elearning systems. This study sought to fill the knowledge gap by adopting features borrowed from K-12 Cyber protection Framework. To address the identified problem, the research was carried out at the three selected public chartered universities in Kenya with focus on in-depth understanding the management of cybersecurity on e-learning platforms. Questionnaires composed of Likert scale were used to collect data where 90 participants were conducted during the study. The data was analyzed using descriptive and regression analysis where the results and findings highlighted that identity, protection, detection, response, user skills and compliance had significant influence on effective management of cybersecurity on e-learning platforms. The research recommended sensitization programs for users and the compliance on regulations established to reduce vulnerabilities.