Scouting America Adds Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity Merit Badges
Key Points
- Scouting America adds artificial intelligence and cybersecurity merit badges.
- Both badges focus on practical, hands‑on learning rather than theory.
- The AI badge covers fundamentals of AI and automation.
- The cybersecurity badge teaches skills to protect and navigate digital spaces.
- An AI chatbot named Scoutly provides badge information and assistance.
- Scouting America’s badge program now exceeds 130 distinct options.
- The new badges reflect the organization’s effort to stay relevant to modern youth.
Scouting America has expanded its merit badge program to include two new technology‑focused awards: an artificial intelligence badge and a cybersecurity badge. The new badges are designed to give scouts hands‑on experience with AI fundamentals, automation, and online safety skills. Both badges emphasize real‑world practice rather than theory. The organization also launched an AI‑powered chatbot called Scoutly, which can provide badge requirements and other assistance. With more than 130 badges already available, the additions reflect Scouting America’s effort to keep its programs relevant to modern life.
New AI and Cybersecurity Badges
Scouting America announced the addition of two merit badges that focus on emerging technology topics. The artificial intelligence badge introduces scouts to the basics of AI and automation through practical activities and real‑world examples. The cybersecurity badge equips scouts with essential knowledge and skills needed to navigate and protect the digital world. Both badges are intended to provide hands‑on learning experiences that go beyond classroom instruction.
Emphasis on Real‑World Practice
According to the organization, the new badges prioritize real‑world practice. The AI badge encourages scouts to think about responsible use of technology, while the cybersecurity badge teaches actual security skills and safe online habits. This approach aligns with Scouting America’s broader philosophy of combining outdoor activities with modern competencies.
Evolution of the Organization’s Identity
Scouting America, formerly known as Boy Scouts, changed its name to Scouts BSA when it opened membership to girls and later adopted its current name. The addition of technology‑focused badges continues the organization’s pattern of adapting its program to reflect societal changes and the interests of today’s youth.
Digital Assistance Through Scoutly
In conjunction with the new badges, Scouting America introduced an AI chatbot named Scoutly. Scoutly can share badge requirements, answer questions about the scouting program, and provide other task‑related assistance. The chatbot serves as a digital tool to help scouts navigate the expanding badge catalog, which now includes more than 130 options across a wide range of subjects.
Broader Impact on Youth Education
The inclusion of AI and cybersecurity badges signals a commitment to preparing scouts for a technology‑driven future. By offering structured, hands‑on pathways to learn about AI and digital security, Scouting America aims to foster critical thinking, problem‑solving, and responsible digital citizenship among its members.