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Scouting isn’t just about tying knots and starting fires anymore. Scouting America has added two merit badges to its collection, and the 115-year-old organization’s awards appear to be catching up with modern technology. Scouts can now earn badges at artificial intelligence And cybersecurity.
Scouting America is a youth organization that was known as Boy Scouts before 2019, when it changed its name to Scouts BSA and allowed girls to join all-girl troops. In February, the Scouts BSA changed its name again, this time to Scouting America.
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the Amnesty International Merit Badge “It will introduce Scouts to the basics of artificial intelligence and automation through hands-on activities and real-life examples,” according to the Scouting America website, while Cybersecurity Merit Badge “Equips Scouts with essential knowledge and skills to navigate and protect the digital world.”
While many of the merit badges that appear on individual Boy Scouts’ distinctive sashes focus on practical experience, often outdoors, such as fire safety and the study of insects, the Boy Scouts of America says the new additions are relevant to modern life.
“Both badges focus on real-world practice, not just reading about technology.” The Boy Scouts of America said in a statement. “The AI badge gets Scouts thinking about how to use technology responsibly. The Cybersecurity badge teaches actual security skills along with safe online habits.”
The Boy Scouts of America added another modern touch. The organization recently issued AI chatbot called Scoutly It can share requirements for different merit badges, among other tasks. Scouts can earn more than 130 badges in different subjects.
