Key facts
- Explorer Scouts are introducing new badges in content creation, digital communication, and online safety.
- The new badges are part of the Scout movement's first major overhaul in nearly 25 years.
- The program requires participants aged 14-18 to explore digital communities, online campaigns, digital footprints, and online safety resources.
- Teenagers consulted for the new badges expressed a desire for skills to navigate AI, social media, and digital technology.
- The new badges are seen by some teenagers as more relevant to modern life than traditional outdoor skills.
The Scout movement is introducing new badges focused on content creation, digital communication, and online safety, marking its first significant program overhaul in nearly 25 years. These badges are designed for 14- to 18-year-olds and aim to equip them with skills to navigate an increasingly digital world shaped by AI and social media.
The initiative comes after consultation with nearly 3,000 teenagers who expressed a desire for skills relevant to modern life. The new program requires participants to explore how digital communities influence opinions, create online campaigns, investigate digital footprints, and design toolkits for online safety.
One new badge, 'Content Creation,' encourages young people to understand digital community influence, create content for positive impact, and develop digital storytelling projects. Another, 'Communication,' includes modules on digital footprints and the effects of digital interactions. A 'Personal Safety' badge tasks them with creating resources to help others manage online risks.
Scout leader Andrew Thorp highlighted that the changes directly address what young people are asking for, emphasizing the need for skills that will help them in their future lives and provide a sense of belonging. He noted that the relevance of these digital skills is growing, particularly with the advancement of AI.
Some teenagers involved, such as Elie Mondah, 17, and Ethan Watkins, 14, welcomed the new badges, stating that schools are not adequately educating them on the positive aspects of AI and digital technologies. They believe these new badges are more pertinent to contemporary life than traditional scouting activities.
Thorp stressed that Scouting's role is to teach not only the use of new technologies but also their responsible application, drawing a parallel to teaching young people how to safely light a fire. The organization will update guidance for the badges if government restrictions on social media for younger teenagers are introduced.