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Scouts do more than just tie knots, start fires, and learn first aid. Boy Scouts of America added artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to its collection of merit badges, keeping the 115-year-old institution up to speed with modern technology.
Scouting America is a youth organization that was known as the Boy Scouts of America before 2019, when it changed its name to Scouts BSA and allowed girls to join all-girl troops. In February, the organization changed its name to Scouting America to reflect a more inclusive philosophy.
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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 Scout sashes focus on practical, often outdoor experiences — 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.
The Boy Scouts of America is the largest Scouting organization and one of the largest youth organizations in the United States, with more than one million youth, including nearly 200,000 female participants.