EJMT Abstract

Cryptography is a subject with much historical and modern significance that provides many interesting applications of mathematics. Due to intensive computations required in many algorithms in cryptography, the use of some type of technological resource is almost an essential component of any course involving this topic. This paper demonstrates the use of Maplets, which allow students to easily execute encryption and decryption algorithms with very little required programming knowledge. A description will be given of how these Maplets can be used in conjunction with electronic discussion groups to allow students to simulate encrypted communications. The Maplets discussed can be accessed from links in the paper.