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VTECH Frequently Asked Questions
VTECH Content
  • What topics are covered by VTECH?
    • VTECH currently has 1 unit available for use: Firewalls. A map of topics covered in this unit is available on the Resources page.
  • Do instructors need to use an entire unit, in order to use VTECH?
    • VTECH is versatile. Instructors may use a single exercise, a collection of the material well suited to the specific course, or an entire unit. Because each unit has a case incorporating every exercise's content, the benefits of using VTECH are increased if the entire unit is used.
  • Does each exercise build on the previous exercises?
    • Since all VTECH exercises are self contained, any of the exercises could be used in isolation. Exercises within the same scenario build toward solving a problem, and will be more effective if completed collectively.
  • Does the Unit Assessment adapt to cover only the material chosen by the instructor?
    • No, the unit assessment will always incorporate the content from every exercise in the unit.
  • Is VTECH associated with a specific textbook?
    • This project is not affiliated with any textbook. The information contained in the system has been drawn from many sources, and can be used with a number of texts.
WAES
  • What is the difference between WAES and VTECH?
    • VTECH (Virtual Tools for Expanding the Cyber Horizon) is an NSF funded project. WAES (Web Access Exercise System) is a tool used in the VTECH project. It is the site students and instructors visit to use the VTECH course software.
  • What system specifications are needed to use the WAES?
    • WAES requires the use of a Javascript enabled web browser. Supported browsers include:
      • IE 7
      • Mozilla Firefox
      • Safari
      • Opera
      In addition, some of the downloadable files in WAES are in the .xls format, which can be read by Microsoft Excel, Open Office Calc, or Google Docs.
  • What type of access to the WAES will instructors have?
    • Instructors will have an instructor account on the WAES system. This type of access will allow instructors to assign exercises, grade assignments, monitor student activities, and much more.
  • Can instructors add or change exercises?
    • This feature is currently unavailable, but is expected to be part of the WAES software.
TEEX On-Site Cyber Security Training
  • What is the purpose of the training?
    • The Cyber Security Training will provide interested participants with an overview of the VTECH project. It will explain some of the benefits of assessing the security of their own network systems. The focus of the training will be to:
      • Emphasize the need for cyber-security education within the community, particularly for small businesses
      • Generate interest in attending follow-up VNEL-based classes
      • Demonstrate virtual training capabilities
  • Who should participating faculty contact to schedule training?
    • Phyllis Hughes
    • Texas Engineering Extension Service
    • 979-458-2919
  • How do participating faculty need to prepare for TEEX training?
    • Reserve a convenient lecture-style space for 2 days. The space should seat at least 50, and have a wall or screen suitable for projecting a powerpoint presentaiton. No equipment is needed.
    • Invite interested people to attend the training.
  • How many people should attend the training?
    • At least 50 attendees are required for the training.
  • Who should be invited to the training?
    • Small business owners and managers
    • Large business owners and managers
    • Interested faculty, administration, and students from the host school
    • Faculty from other institutions
    • Information technology professionals
  • Is it possible for the TEEX training to occur in the evening, or over a weekend?
    • TEEX is flexible and will work with the schedules of those attending the training.
  • How should the training be advertised/marketed?
    • Marketing materials will be provided to the host school by TEEX.
Resources and Communication
  • Where can the information from the Expanding the Cyber Horizons Workshop be found?
  • What tools are available for inter-institution communication?
    • This website offers a directory of phone numbers and email addresses, and a wiki for communication.
  • What if my question is not answered here?
    • Consider looking through the wiki for an answer, or posting your question in the recommend revisions section of that page. Also, feel free to contact us with any questions.