Learning Cards and Labs
A learning card is the atomic unit of a CTFFactory Learning Path. Each card covers a specific competency cluster and combines structured theory content with practical guidance and, optionally, a challenge lab for hands-on assessment.
Card Structure
Every card is composed of four sections that appear as tabs or collapsible panels within the card view.
Theory
The Theory tab presents the core conceptual content for the card's competency. Content is written in Markdown and may include:
- Explanatory prose and definitions
- Embedded images and diagrams
- Code blocks with syntax highlighting
- Links to external references and standards documents
Learners are expected to read and understand the Theory content before proceeding to the Lesson Outline or attempting the lab.
Lesson Outline
The Lesson Outline provides a structured, step-by-step breakdown of how an instructor would deliver the competency in a classroom or workshop setting. It is useful for:
- Self-learners who want a guided study structure
- Instructors adapting the card for live delivery
- Curriculum designers building on top of CTFFactory paths
The outline typically includes learning objectives, key discussion points, and suggested activities or exercises beyond the embedded lab.
Evidence Required
The Evidence Required section defines exactly what a learner must submit to have this card marked Complete. Evidence types vary by card and competency:
| Evidence Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Lab flag | Correct CTF flag captured from the challenge lab (auto-verified) |
| File upload | Report, screenshot, or artifact demonstrating the skill |
| Written response | Short-answer or reflective text submitted for instructor review |
| Peer review | Submission reviewed and approved by a designated peer or co-learner |
| External link | URL to a portfolio artifact, GitHub repository, or published write-up |
A card may require multiple evidence items. The card status remains In Progress until all required evidence is submitted and accepted.
Competency Cluster and Metadata
The card sidebar displays structured metadata used for framework alignment and credentialling:
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
| Competency Cluster | The CCSSF or NICE competency group this card addresses |
| Framework Tags | CCSSF competency code(s) and/or NICE Work Role ID(s) |
| Difficulty Range | Minimum and maximum difficulty values (1–10 scale) governing generated labs |
| Cert Status | certifiable, gap, or blocked — determines this card's role in badge issuance |
| Estimated Duration | Expected time to complete theory, outline review, and lab |
Navigating Cards
Within a course, cards are displayed in sequence. Use the Previous and Next buttons at the bottom of the card view to move between cards. You may also jump to any available card using the course outline panel on the left side of the screen.
Cards in a Locked state display a padlock icon and a brief explanation of which prerequisite must be completed first.
Progress Indicator
A multi-segment progress indicator appears at the top of each card view. Each segment represents one evidence requirement:
- Grey — not yet submitted
- Yellow — submitted, pending review
- Green — accepted and complete
The overall card progress percentage (shown as a numeric badge in the course outline) is calculated as the proportion of accepted evidence items out of the total required. A card reaching 100% triggers automatic transition to the Complete state and unlocks the next card in sequence.
Tip: Cards with only auto-verified lab flags (captured CTF flags) complete instantly upon correct submission — no manual review delay.