Lesson Plan

• Describe the principles of zero‑login, biometric, magnetic stripe, smart card, physical token, and electronic token authentication methods.
• Compare the advantages, disadvantages and typical use cases for each method.
• Evaluate factors for selecting appropriate authentication methods for different network scenarios.
• Explain how multi‑factor authentication enhances security in ICT environments.

• Projector and screen
• Computer with internet access
• Printed handouts of authentication method comparison table
• Sample magnetic stripe card and smart card (or images)
• Demo app for software token (e.g., Google Authenticator)
• Whiteboard and markers

Begin with a quick poll: “How many of you use a fingerprint or face scan to unlock your phone?” This links to students’ everyday experience of authentication. Explain that today’s lesson will explore a range of methods beyond passwords, and students will be able to identify strengths, weaknesses and suitable contexts for each. Success criteria: students can describe each method and justify its use in a given scenario.

1. Do‑now (5’) – Students list authentication methods they use daily on a sticky note.
2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Overview of zero‑login, biometric, magnetic stripe, smart card, physical and electronic tokens with slide deck.
3. Group activity (15’) – Each group receives a method card; they create a brief pros/cons list and present.
4. Demonstration (10’) – Show a software token app and a smart card reader demo.
5. Case‑study analysis (10’) – Students evaluate a corporate VPN scenario and recommend suitable authentication methods using selection factors.
6. Check for understanding (5’) – Quick Kahoot quiz covering key concepts.

Recap the key characteristics and appropriate contexts for each authentication method. Ask students to write one takeaway on an exit ticket and submit it. For homework, assign a short report comparing two methods of their choice, focusing on security, cost and usability.