UDC 378.14:004.8

Bocharova T.A.¹ (Khabarovsk, Russian Federation) – kitaal@yandex.ru

¹Pacific State University

Abstract. Modern digital society faces an exponential growth of cyber threats, the increasing complexity of information system infrastructure, and the exponential growth of processed data volumes. Under these conditions, ensuring information security requires specialists not only a deep understanding of classical protection methods but also mastery of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technologies capable of predicting, detecting, and neutralizing attacks. Existing educational programs often separate training in information security and artificial intelligence, neglecting the interdisciplinary field where these fields intersect. Of particular interest among AI methods are metaheuristic algorithms—flexible optimization approaches effective in high-dimensional environments, the absence of a strict mathematical model, and multiple conflicting criteria. Their application in cybersecurity encompasses configuring intrusion detection systems, optimizing access policies, identifying vulnerabilities, and allocating monitoring resources. This article explores the integration of metaheuristic algorithms into the educational process of training information security specialists, based on the principles of professionally oriented learning. Using the example of Pacific National University, this paper examines the integration of a module into the Computer Security curriculum, describing the structure of lectures and labs in the format of cross-cutting project assignments simulating threat scenarios. Particular attention is paid to developing students’ skills in making informed method selection, formalizing professional tasks in terms of optimization, and interpreting results, taking into account the limitations of practice. It is emphasized that the proposed approach is not limited to adding practical tasks, but rather involves a systemic transformation of the educational process around a professional context, which promotes the development of not only algorithmic competencies but also the willingness to make decisions under uncertainty. The results of this study can be useful in the development and modernization of curricula in artificial intelligence and information security, ensuring graduates’ competitiveness in the labor market.

Keywords: metaheuristic algorithms, artificial intelligence, information security, professionally oriented training.

References:

1. Vasiliev, A. V. (2023). Reasons for the growth in the number of cyberattacks: Analysis of technical and non‑technical factors. Systems Analysis and Applied Informatics, 3, 48–54. (In Russian). https://doi.org/10.21122/2309-4923-2023-3-48-54
2. Samolkaeva, A. M., & Shvedova, S. M. (2024). Artificial intelligence in information security: Advantages, limitations, and prospects. Science Bulletin, 5(3), 534–539. (In Russian). https://www.elibrary.ru/cswifz
3. Petruchenya, I. V. (2026). Identification and applied interpretation of new features of compliance risk classification in the artificial intelligence environment. π‑Economy, 19(1), 62–79. (In Russian). https://doi.org/10.18721/JE.19103
4. Gridina, V. V. (2024). Artificial intelligence and the modern labor market in the sphere of information technology. The World of Science. Sociology, Philology, Cultural Studies, 15(2), 1–9. (In Russian). https://www.elibrary.ru/sejhve
5. Gladkov, L. A., Kravchenko, Yu. A., Kureichik, V. V., & Rodzin, S. I. (2024). Intelligent systems: Models and methods of metaheuristic optimization. Publishing House “Sreda”. (In Russian). https://doi.org/10.31483/a-10639
6. Vaganova, O. I., Abramova, N. S., & Maksimova, K. A. (2019). Professionally‑oriented educational technologies. Baltic Journal of the Humanities, 8(4), 38–41. (In Russian). https://doi.org/10.26140/bgz3-2019-0804-0007
7. Artemyeva, O. A., & Makeeva, M. N. (2007). System of educational role‑playing games of professional orientation. Tambov State Technical University. Retrieved from https://viewer.rsl.ru/ru/rsl01003397971
8. Varavva, M. Yu. (2024). Training IT specialists: Key limitations of the Russian higher education system. Educational Resources and Technologies, 1, 7–16. (In Russian). https://doi.org/10.21777/2500-2112-2024-1-7-16
9. Shcherbina, O. A. (2014). Metaheuristic algorithms for combinatorial optimization problems (Review). Tavricheskiy Vestnik Informatics and Mathematics, 1, 56–72. (In Russian). https://www.elibrary.ru/vlkcfz
10. Orlov, E. A., & Bocharova, T. A. (2025). Metaheuristic optimization algorithms for solving the problem of local area network placement. In Far East Math – 2024 (pp. 216–221). Pacific State University. (In Russian). https://www.elibrary.ru/mxnmga
11. Vasilyeva, D. S., & Shaburova, A. V. (2020). Model of information security specialist competence in modern conditions. Inter Expo Geo‑Siberia, 6(1), 53–59. (In Russian). https://doi.org/10.33764/2618-981X-2020-6-1-53-59
12. Orlov, E. A., & Bocharova, T. A. (2025). Application of ant colony algorithms in LAN design problems. In Modern and information technologies in the social sphere (pp. 120–125). Moscow Automobile and Road Construction State Technical University (MADI). (In Russian). https://www.elibrary.ru/vdlwsl
13. Yashin, S. N., Yashina, N. I., Koshelev, E. V., & Ivanov, A. A. (2023). Metaheuristic algorithms in innovation management. Printing Workshop RADONEZH. (In Russian). https://www.elibrary.ru/hafryi
14. Volkova, O. N., Ustinova, E. I., & Kurukina, Yu. S. (2024). Training future specialists in the field of information security in higher education. Pedagogical Informatics, 1, 321–329. (In Russian). https://www.elibrary.ru/wqnqzz
15. Agibova, I. M., & Kistereva, S. N. (2011). Professional training of specialists in the field of information security based on the implementation of a competency‑based approach. Bulletin of the Stavropol State University, 1, 66–71. (In Russian). https://www.elibrary.ru/nxswfx
16. Burkova, E. V. (2016). Professional training of specialists in the field of information security. Bulletin of the Orenburg State University, 2, 3–9. (In Russian). https://www.elibrary.ru/vxkmkn

For citation: Bocharova, T. A. (2026). Professionally focused training in metaheuristic algorithms in an artificial intelligence course for information security specialists. CITISE, 3, 264-276. (In Russian).