A hybrid structural and artificial intelligence approach for cybersecurity situational awareness among high school students
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: This paper applies a hybrid structural and artificial intelligence methodology in evaluating the level of cybersecurity awareness of Saudi Arabian high school students. Nowadays, as students largely resort to online means of education and communication, they also become exposed to threats like phishing, malware, loss of data privacy, and cyberbullying. Based on Endsley’s theory of situational awareness, the study delves into perception, comprehension, and projection as factors affecting cybersecurity skill. A questionnaire survey was administered to the students and the obtained data were processed through descriptive statistics, structural equation modeling, AI-based prediction and explainability techniques. The findings revealed an average level of cybersecurity awareness among the students with a relatively higher knowledge level than confidence one. Environmental factors, personal awareness, educational programs, and level of understanding were considered as main components of cybersecurity proficiency. The built prediction models indicated accurate classification results while explainability findings revealed that awareness, support conditions and educational exposure are critical factors. The study asserts that being prepared for cybersecurity is influenced not only by one’s knowledge but also by the teaching at school and support from the society. The research provides direction for implementing effective and long-lasting student cybersecurity awareness education.
Source: Scientific Reports
Institution: National University of Malaysia
Language: English
Subfield: Information Systems
Field: Computer Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,690
OpenAlex ID: W7171567664