International Journal of Evaluation and Research in Education (IJERE) Vol. 14, No. 5, October 2025, pp. 4088~4098 ISSN: 2252-8822, DOI: 10.11591/ijere.v14i5.32359  4088 Journal homepage: http://ijere.iaescore.com Designing cyber safety and security literacy programs to enhance cyber security competency of prospective teachers Santhosh Thangan 1 , Thiyagu Kaliappan 2 , Vrinda Vijayan 3 , Venukanti Sai Abhinav 2 , Ashalatha Shanthipalla 2 1 Department of Education, National Institute of Technology, Calicut, India 2 Department of Education, School of Education and Training, Central University of Karnataka, Kalaburagi, India 3 Department of Education, Central University of Kerala, Kasaragod, India Article Info ABSTRACT Article history: Received Aug 6, 2024 Revised Apr 27, 2025 Accepted May 9, 2025 This study examines the design, development, and evaluation of a cyber safety and security literacy program (CSLP) aimed at enhancing cyber security competency (CSC) among prospective teachers. Utilizing a research and development (R&D) method, the program was structured using the analysis, design, development, implementation, evaluation (ADDIE) model to create instructional modules covering key cyber safety topics. The validity of the program was ensured through expert evaluations, and its effectiveness was tested via a pre-experimental research design with a single group of 50 prospective teachers from training colleges in Kerala, India. Pre- and post- test assessments were conducted using a standardized CSC scale. Statistical analysis, including t-tests and Cohen’s d, revealed a significant improvement in participants’ CSC, with a large effect size (Cohen’s d=4.32), indicating the program’s substantial impact. This study emphasizes the importance of incorporating structured cyber safety education into teacher training programs to bridge the gap between digital engagement and online safety. The findings also highlight the broader need for integrating cyber security literacy in professional contexts to foster responsible digital behavior. Keywords: ADDIE model Cyber safety and security literacy program Cyber security competency E safety Online risks This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA license. Corresponding Author: Santhosh Thangan Department of Education, National Institute of Technology Calicut, Kerala 673601, India Email: santhoshelappully@gmail.com 1. INTRODUCTION Cyberspace affords a wealth of services to every individual; however, it also presents significant risks and dangers. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of these risks and lack the skills needed to protect themselves. As the gap between digital use and safety grows, raising awareness becomes more critical than ever. A secure online environment demands not only awareness of potential risks but also a deep understanding of the skills and strategies required to address and mitigate these dangers [1]. Studies consistently emphasize the value of awareness programs in equipping individuals with essential cyber security skills. Well-structured programs that integrate diverse content and effective teaching methods have proven successful in addressing the challenges of the digital world, empowering individuals to guide cyberspace safely [2]. Among the key strategies for promoting cyber safety, cyber literacy plays a vital role by enhancing young people’s confidence and competence in using technology safely. It extends beyond basic internet skills, encompassing information literacy, media literacy, information and communication technology (ICT) literacy, and internet literacy, all of which contribute to a broader concept of digital competence.