To borrow a phrase from a certain smartphone maker: The next big thing is almost here.
Digital Technology merit badge, set to debut in mid-April 2014, will guide Scouts through the exciting, complex, ever-changing world of smartphone apps, computer software and tech-focused careers.
It’s the Boy Scouts of America’s latest in a growing roster of STEM-focused merit badges that help upgrade a Scout’s skills for today’s digitally focused workplaces.
As I mentioned in January, Digital Technology merit badge is debuting as Computers merit badge nears retirement. Computers MB came online in 1967 — long before anyone could’ve dreamed of a palm-size computer that also makes phone calls.
Scouts have until Dec. 31, 2014, to earn Computers merit badge. And yes, a Scout can earn and wear both Computers and Digital Technology merit badges. See more details about the phase-in and phase-out process at this link.
As for Digital Technology MB,
I can’t reveal the requirements just yet, but I can say they’ll include a Scout showing his merit badge counselor an up-to-date Cyber Chip. That’s a requirement a Scout could complete now, if he wanted to be one-ninth of the way done. (And, besides, earning the Cyber Chip is a good idea for any Scout — even if he’s not yet working on a merit badge that requires it.)
Other requirements will cover the Internet, smartphones, content creation on digital devices and much more. Potential merit badge counselors, get ready for Digital Technology to debut in mid-April.
In the meantime, check out the cover:
Thanks, as always, to Janice Downey for the info on this one!>
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