FAQ - Hacker Mode - TechSpark Academy

Hacker Mode FAQs

Why learn about cybersecurity?

As cybercrime costs increase exponentially, understanding prominent cyber threats and cultivating responsible online behaviour is increasingly important.
Our Cybersecurity curriculum is crafted to be both informative and enjoyable, providing practical insights into the realm of hackers.
“Hacker Mode” equips students with essential skills to detect fakes and navigate the digital landscape securely.

What to expect from Hacker Mode?

The Hacker Mode curriculum is based on a problem-solving approach. The focus is on student’s ability to solve cybersecurity problems, creating an atmosphere where students are eager to apply the learning, because solving cybersecurity puzzles is fun!
The course’s focus is on simplifying the complex world of cybersecurity, with an emphasis on an instructor’s role as a coach. This results in a powerful learning loop, met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from our students.
Through engaging hands-on activities and real-world scenarios, our “Hacker Mode” cybersecurity course not only imparts critical cybersecurity skills, but also instils a sense of empowerment, making the learning experience both informative and enjoyable.

What skills will my child acquire?

We encourage students to think like a cyber security professional: Cybersecurity training is brought to life through real-world hacking challenges and puzzles. Our gamified exercises will show students how programs work and train them to think critically.
Students experience the thrill of cybersecurity competitions: PicoCTF “Capture The Flag” (CTF) is a hacker’s competition designed by Carnegie Mellon University and targeted to middle and high school students. Students are presented with a vulnerable system, which can be hacked to retrieve a piece of information (the flag).
Students learn to use their computer’s terminal line, turning it into something functional instead of a mysterious black box (OpenClassRooms)
Finally, students’ critical thinking about today’s cybersecurity world is fostered: Over multiple sessions, students will view/listen to a documentary, movie or podcast tackling relevant real-life cybersecurity events, and discuss them as a team.

How do I know which level is right for my child?

To ensure all students get the most out of their TechSpark experience, we ask ALL students to take a short (5 mins) Computational Evaluation the beginning of their first lessons. This allows our instructors to tailor the course material to the student’s needs.
If you select a course or level which does not correspond to your child’s knowledge, don’t worry – we can recommend another course and/or will adapt accordingly, depending on the group size for our online or in person class.
Noteworthy: Our Cybersecurity course is designed for students with previous Python experience. Do check our Python curriculum for preparatory courses.

Why Learn Cybersecurity with TechSpark Academy?

TechSpark Academy prides itself in its Swiss quality, with dedicated instructors from top Swiss and European universities, creating a comfortable and adaptive learning environment.
Our online private tutoring caters to individual styles, promoting deep understanding and confidence.
Online classes and camps in Switzerland’s most beautiful locations are limited to 5-6 students per group, and provide personalized attention for a supportive atmosphere, ensuring mastery of concepts.