Digital Technology Merit Badge

Free Resources and Answers

Time: 2–4 weeks
Difficulty: Moderate
Setting: Indoor, computer use
Best For: Scouts interested in computers, technology, digital skills
Hands-On Level: Moderate
Requires Camping/Travel: No
Eagle Required: No

The Digital Technology merit badge helps you learn about computers, mobile devices, the internet, and other digital tools you use every day. As you work on this badge, you will explore how technology works and how it connects people around the world. You will also learn how digital technology affects school, communication, entertainment, and daily life.

While earning the Digital Technology merit badge, you will build skills that can help you now and in the future. You will learn how to use technology safely, protect your information online, and make responsible choices when using digital devices. You will also explore careers in technology and discover how digital tools are used in many different jobs.

This merit badge gives you opportunities to solve problems, think creatively, and complete hands-on activities. You will use technology to complete tasks and learn new skills. By the time you finish, you will have a better understanding of the digital world and be better prepared to use technology with confidence.

The requirements for this merit badge were updated effective January 1, 2026.

Download the Digital Technology Merit Badge Requirements

Digital Technology Merit Badge Pamphlet

Digital Technology Merit Badge Printable Requirement Check Off Sheet

Checklist for All Merit Badges

Help with Answers for Digital Technology Merit Badge Requirements

Find specific helps for some of the Digital Technology merit badge requirements listed below. Some of these resources will just give the answers. Others will provide engaging ways for older Scouts to introduce these concepts to new Scouts.

• Requirement 1: Safety
• Requirement 2: Development
• Requirement 3: Knowledge
• Requirement 4: Applications
• Requirement 5: Networks
• Requirement 6: Projects
• Requirement 7: Intellectual Property
• Requirement 8: Environmental Concerns
• Requirement 9: Careers and Workplaces
• More Resources

Requirement 1: Digital Safety

What You Need To Do

Watch the Personal Safety Awareness “Digital Safety” video with your parent or guardian’s permission. Pay attention to the safety tips for using the internet, social media, apps, and other digital tools.

Helpful Tips

• Ask a parent or guardian for permission before watching the video.
• Watch the entire video without skipping sections.
• Take notes about online safety rules.
• Pay close attention to information about protecting personal details.
• Look for examples of scams, fake websites, and online tricks.
• Write down steps for creating strong passwords.
• Review ways to stay safe when using social media.
• Keep your notes so you can refer to them later.

Resources

• Personal Safety Awareness “Digital Safety” video

Leader Tips

• Make sure Scouts have permission to view the video.
• Encourage Scouts to take notes while watching.
• Ask simple questions about key safety topics after the video.
• Give Scouts time to discuss safe online habits with their families.

Requirement 2a: History of Digital Technology

What You Need To Do

Give a short history of digital technology and discuss it with your counselor. Compare the technology you use today with technology from your parent’s, grandparent’s, or another adult’s lifetime.

Helpful Tips

• Start with early computers, which were large and expensive.
• Include changes in computers, phones, and internet access.
• Compare older desktop computers with modern laptops and tablets.
• Talk about how internet speeds have increased over time.
• Compare early cell phones with today’s smartphones.
• Ask an adult about the technology they used when they were your age.
• Write down a few examples before meeting with your counselor.
• Include changes in games, communication, and school technology.

Resources

Technology Evolution – 100,000 BCE to 2020 (video)
Past & Present Technology, Then & Now (video)
Past and Present | Technology Then and Now (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to interview a parent, grandparent, or other adult.
• Help Scouts focus on a few major technology changes.
• Suggest examples involving computers, phones, and the internet.
• Remind Scouts to compare daily life then and now.

Requirement 2b: Future Technology

What You Need To Do

Describe the kinds of computers or devices you believe might exist when you are an adult. Share your ideas with your counselor and explain how those devices could be used.

Helpful Tips

• Consider how computers might become smaller and more powerful.
• Include ideas for wearable technology such as smart glasses.
• Think about how artificial intelligence could help people every day.
• Consider how robots might assist at home, work, or in emergencies.
• Imagine new ways people might communicate with devices.
• Include possible technology for space travel and exploration.
• Describe how future devices could make tasks faster or easier.
• Use your imagination while keeping your ideas realistic.

Resources

• Technologies of the Future (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage creativity and original ideas.
• Ask Scouts how future technology might help people solve problems.
• Help Scouts connect future devices to real technology available today.
• Focus on practical uses instead of science fiction details.

Requirement 3a: Digitizing Text, Sound, and Pictures

What You Need To Do

Explain how computers store text, sound, and pictures as digital data. Discuss the basic process used for each type of information.

Helpful Tips

• Text is stored as numbers using character codes such as ASCII or Unicode.
• Each letter, number, and symbol has its own code.
• Sound starts as sound waves moving through the air.
• A computer records sound by taking many samples each second.
• Each sound sample is stored as a number.
• Pictures are made of tiny dots called pixels.
• Each pixel stores color information using numbers.
• Digital files allow text, sound, and pictures to be saved and shared.

Resources

• What Is ASCII? (video)
• How Images and Sound are Represented in a Computer (video)

Leader Tips

• Use simple examples Scouts see every day.
• Show examples of text files, music files, and image files.
• Encourage Scouts to describe the process in their own words.
• Keep the discussion focused on basic concepts.

Requirement 3b: Lossy and Lossless Compression

What You Need To Do

Describe the difference between lossy and lossless compression. Give one example of when each type might be used.

Helpful Tips

• Compression reduces file size.
• Lossy compression removes some data from a file.
• Smaller files are easier to store and send.
• JPEG images often use lossy compression.
• MP3 music files often use lossy compression.
• Lossless compression keeps all original data.
• ZIP files commonly use lossless compression.
• Text files and computer programs often use lossless compression.

Resources

• Lossy vs Lossless Data Compression (video)

Leader Tips

• Show examples of common file types.
• Help Scouts compare file quality and file size.
• Encourage real-world examples from school or home.
• Make sure Scouts can explain both types clearly.

Requirement 3c: Programming and Digital Devices

What You Need To Do

Describe two digital devices and explain how programming makes them useful. Include examples of tasks each device can perform.

Helpful Tips

• Programming gives devices instructions.
• Smartphones use programming to run apps.
• Programs allow phones to send messages and access websites.
• Smart TVs use software to stream videos.
• Smart speakers respond to voice commands through programming.
• Robots follow programmed instructions to perform tasks.
• Programming can be updated to add new features.
• Choose devices you use regularly for easy examples.

Resources

• Types of Digital Devices (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to use familiar devices.
• Ask for specific examples of tasks each device performs.
• Connect programming to everyday activities.
• Focus on how software controls the device.

Requirement 3d: Computers, Mobile Devices, and Gaming Consoles

What You Need To Do

Discuss how computers, mobile devices, and gaming consoles are alike and how they are different.

Helpful Tips

• All three use processors to run software.
• All three can store data and files.
• All three can connect to networks.
• Computers are designed for many different tasks.
• Mobile devices are portable and easy to carry.
• Smartphones and tablets use touchscreens.
• Gaming consoles are designed mainly for playing games.
• Consoles often include specialized graphics hardware.

Resources

• Comparing PC to Gaming Consoles. (video)
• Mobile vs Pc vs Console Gaming (website)

Leader Tips

• Ask Scouts to compare devices they own or use.
• Encourage examples from home, school, or recreation.
• Help Scouts identify both similarities and differences.
• Keep the discussion practical and easy to follow.

Requirement 3e: Computer Networks, LANs, and WANs

What You Need To Do

Explain what a computer network is. Describe the difference between a local area network (LAN) and a wide area network (WAN).

Helpful Tips

• A network connects devices so they can share information.
• Networks can connect computers, phones, printers, and other devices.
• A LAN covers a small area.
• Home and school networks are common examples of LANs.
• A WAN covers a much larger area.
• WANs can connect cities, states, or countries.
• The internet is the largest WAN in the world.
• Networks allow devices to share files and internet access.

Resources

• Difference Between LAN and WAN (video)

Leader Tips

• Use the Scout’s home network as an example of a LAN.
• Use the internet as an example of a WAN.
• Encourage Scouts to identify devices connected to a network.
• Focus on size and coverage when comparing LANs and WANs.

Requirement 4a: Programs, Apps, CPU, and Memory

What You Need To Do

Explain what a program or app is. Describe how a computer uses the CPU and memory to run it.

Helpful Tips

• A program or app is a set of instructions for a computer.
• Apps help users perform specific tasks.
• The CPU is the main processor in a computer.
• The CPU reads and carries out instructions from a program.
• Memory, also called RAM, stores data while a program is running.
• Programs are usually stored on a hard drive or SSD.
• When you open a program, it moves from storage into memory.
• The CPU and memory work together to run apps smoothly.

Resources

• How Computers Work (video)
• What Is an App? (video)
• How Computer Memory Works (video)

Leader Tips

• Compare the CPU to a worker following instructions.
• Use apps Scouts use every day as examples.
• Show how programs move from storage into memory.
• Keep the explanation focused on basic computer parts.

Requirement 4b: Software Programs and Mobile Apps

What You Need To Do

Name four software programs or mobile apps used by you or your family. Explain how each one helps with everyday tasks.

Helpful Tips

• Choose apps or programs you use regularly.
• Include communication apps such as FaceTime or Zoom.
• Consider navigation apps such as Google Maps.
• Include school or work programs such as Google Docs.
• Streaming apps provide entertainment and educational content.
• Banking apps help manage money and accounts.
• Explain what each app does.
• Give real examples of how your family uses each one.

Resources

• Understandng Software Applications (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to choose familiar apps.
• Ask for practical examples instead of simple lists.
• Help Scouts connect apps to daily activities.
• Remind Scouts to explain how each app is useful.

Requirement 4c: Malware and Device Protection

What You Need To Do

Describe what malware is and explain ways to protect devices and personal information.

Helpful Tips

• Malware is harmful software.
• Viruses, spyware, and ransomware are types of malware.
• Install antivirus software on devices.
• Keep operating systems and apps updated.
• Use strong and unique passwords.
• Avoid opening suspicious links or attachments.
• Download software only from trusted sources.
• Back up important files regularly.

Resources

• What Is Malware? (video)

Leader Tips

• Discuss safe online habits with Scouts.
• Use real-world examples of common threats.
• Encourage strong password practices.
• Focus on prevention and safe choices.

Requirement 4d: Barcodes, QR Codes, and RFID Tags

What You Need To Do

Explain what barcodes, QR codes, and RFID tags are. Describe the data they contain and give at least two examples of how each is used.

Helpful Tips

• A barcode uses lines to represent numbers.
• Barcodes often contain an item identification number.
• Grocery stores and libraries use barcodes.
• A QR code uses small squares to store data.
• QR codes can contain website addresses, text, or contact information.
• Restaurants and event tickets often use QR codes.
• RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification.
• RFID tags use radio waves to send data.
• Key cards, toll passes, and pet microchips use RFID technology.
• RFID tags do not need direct contact with a scanner.

Leader Tips

• Bring examples Scouts can see and examine.
• Encourage Scouts to scan a QR code if possible.
• Point out barcodes and RFID uses in everyday life.
• Help Scouts compare how the three technologies work.

Requirement 5a: Data Transfer on the Internet

What You Need To Do

Describe at least two different ways data can be transferred through the internet. Be prepared to discuss how information moves between devices and servers.

Helpful Tips

• Web browsing transfers data when you visit websites.
• Your browser sends a request to a web server.
• The server sends webpage data back to your device.
• Email transfers messages between mail servers.
• Emails travel in small pieces of data called packets.
• File sharing transfers documents, photos, and videos.
• Cloud storage services allow files to be uploaded and downloaded.
• Streaming services transfer audio and video over the internet.

Resources

• How the Internet ACTUALLY Works ? (video)
• This Is How Data Is Transferred in the Internet (video)
• Data Transfer Via the Internet Explained (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to use examples from everyday internet use.
• Discuss websites, email, and file sharing.
• Keep explanations simple and practical.
• Help Scouts connect data transfer to activities they use regularly.

Requirement 5b: Using a Search Engine

What You Need To Do

Use a search engine to find ideas from at least three websites about conducting a troop court of honor or campfire program. Present the ideas to your counselor and describe how you found the information.

Helpful Tips

• Get permission from a parent or guardian before searching online.
• Use clear search terms such as “troop court of honor ideas.”
• Try several different search phrases.
• Visit at least three different websites.
• Write down useful ideas from each source.
• Compare the ideas you find.
• Save the website names for your presentation.
• Describe the search words you entered and how you selected results.

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to use several sources instead of only one.
• Discuss how search terms affect results.
• Help Scouts identify useful information from each website.
• Focus on the search process as well as the information found.

Requirement 5c: HTTPS and Secure Websites

What You Need To Do

Use a web browser to visit an HTTPS website with permission from a parent or guardian. Explain how to identify a trusted security certificate and what an HTTPS connection does.

Helpful Tips

• Look for “https://” at the beginning of the web address.
• Check for the padlock icon near the address bar.
• Click the padlock to view certificate information.
• A valid certificate shows the website identity.
• Certificates are issued by trusted certificate authorities.
• HTTPS encrypts data traveling between your device and the website.
• Encryption helps protect passwords and personal information.
• Avoid entering sensitive information on websites without HTTPS.

Resources

• What Is HTTPS? (video)

Leader Tips

• Demonstrate how to locate the padlock icon.
• Show Scouts where certificate information is displayed.
• Discuss why encryption is important.
• Encourage safe browsing habits on all devices.

Requirement 6a: Spreadsheet or Database Project

What You Need To Do

Create either a food budget for a patrol campout using a spreadsheet or database program, or make a troop roster with each Scout’s name, rank, patrol, and telephone number. If you create a roster, show how to sort it by rank, patrol, and name.

Helpful Tips

• Choose the project that interests you most.
• Enter information carefully and check for errors.
• Use separate columns for each type of information.
• Practice sorting data before meeting with your counselor.
• Save your work often while creating the project.
• Include all required information in the roster.
• Double-check calculations if creating a food budget.
• Copy the completed file to a backup device.

Resources

• Introduction to Spreadsheets (video)

Leader Tips

• Demonstrate basic spreadsheet features if needed.
• Encourage Scouts to organize information clearly.
• Review sorting functions before the counselor meeting.
• Remind Scouts to make a backup copy.

Requirement 6b: Draft Letter to Parents

What You Need To Do

Use a word processor to write a draft letter inviting parents to a troop event.

Helpful Tips

• Include the name of the event.
• Add the date, time, and location.
• Use complete sentences and clear wording.
• Keep the information organized in paragraphs.
• Include any items parents need to bring.
• Check spelling and grammar before finishing.
• Read the letter aloud to catch mistakes.
• Save a backup copy of the file.

Resources

• Word Processing Tutorial (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to use a standard letter format.
• Review the letter for missing information.
• Help Scouts focus on clear communication.
• Remind Scouts to back up the document.

Requirement 6c: Campsite Plan or Event Flier

What You Need To Do

Use a graphics program to create either a campsite plan for your troop or a flier for an upcoming troop event. Include text and at least one visual element.

Helpful Tips

• Start with a simple layout before adding details.
• Use labels that are easy to read.
• Include all important information on the page.
• Add a photograph, drawing, or illustration.
• Keep text large enough to read easily.
• Leave enough space between items.
• Check for spelling mistakes before saving.
• Make a backup copy when finished.

Resources

• Google Drawing Basics (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage neat and organized designs.
• Review the layout before the project is complete.
• Help Scouts balance text and visuals.
• Remind Scouts to save and back up their work.

Requirement 6d: Presentation Software Project

What You Need To Do

Create a presentation about a topic approved by your counselor. Include at least five slides with text and visuals.

Helpful Tips

• Choose a topic you enjoy.
• Create at least five slides.
• Use a title slide at the beginning.
• Include pictures, diagrams, or charts.
• Keep text short and easy to read.
• Use large fonts for better visibility.
• Practice presenting before meeting with your counselor.
• Save a backup copy of the presentation.

Resources

• Google Slides for Presentations (video)

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts select an appropriate topic.
• Encourage simple and readable slides.
• Review slide count and required visuals.
• Remind Scouts to back up the file.

Requirement 6e: Digital Photograph

What You Need To Do

Take a picture of a troop activity using a digital device. Transfer or send the image to another device and share it with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Take the photo during an actual troop activity.
• Make sure the image is clear and in focus.
• Check lighting before taking the picture.
• Capture an activity rather than a posed photo if possible.
• Transfer the image to another device.
• Verify the file opens correctly after transfer.
• Keep the original image until the requirement is complete.
• Create a backup copy of the file.

Resources

• Sending Photos on a Smartphone (video)

Leader Tips

• Review safe photography practices.
• Encourage clear and meaningful photos.
• Ask Scouts to demonstrate the file transfer process.
• Remind Scouts to save a backup copy.

Requirement 6f: Voice Recording

What You Need To Do

Record your voice using a digital device. Transfer the recording to a different device and have your counselor play it back.

Helpful Tips

• Record in a quiet location.
• Speak clearly and at a steady pace.
• Test the microphone before recording.
• Listen to the recording to check sound quality.
• Transfer the file to another device.
• Verify the recording plays correctly after transfer.
• Keep the original file until the requirement is approved.
• Save a backup copy of the recording.

Resources

• How to Make an Audio File With a Smartphone (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to test recordings before transferring files.
• Help troubleshoot playback problems if needed.
• Ask Scouts to explain how they moved the file.
• Remind Scouts to keep backup copies.

Requirement 6g: Scouting Blog

What You Need To Do

Create a blog that serves as an online journal of your Scouting activities. Include at least five entries and two photographs or illustrations.

Helpful Tips

• Write about meetings, campouts, and service projects.
• Create at least five separate entries.
• Include dates for each entry.
• Add two photographs or illustrations.
• Keep entries organized and easy to read.
• Check spelling before publishing or sharing.
• Share the blog with your counselor.
• Get approval from your parents and counselor before posting it online.

Resources

• How to Write a Blog Post for Beginners: From Start to End (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage regular entries instead of writing everything at once.
• Review entries for completeness.
• Discuss online safety before publishing.
• Remind Scouts to save backup copies of their work.

Requirement 6h: Webpage Project

What You Need To Do

Create a webpage for your troop, patrol, school, or place of worship. Include at least three articles, two photographs or illustrations, and one useful website link.

Helpful Tips

• Choose a clear topic for the webpage.
• Write at least three articles.
• Add two photographs or illustrations.
• Include one link related to the audience’s interests.
• Organize information into sections.
• Check all links before sharing the page.
• Review spelling and grammar.
• Get approval from your parents and counselor before posting it online.

Resources

• How to Create a Simple Webpage (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage simple page layouts.
• Review the required articles and images.
• Check that links work correctly.
• Discuss internet safety and approval requirements before publishing.

Requirement 7a: Intellectual Property Protections

What You Need To Do

Explain copyright, patents, trademarks, and trade secrets. Describe the purpose of each type of protection.

Helpful Tips

• Copyright protects creative works such as books, music, movies, and software.
• Copyright gives creators control over copying and sharing their work.
• Patents protect inventions and new technologies.
• Patents give inventors exclusive rights for a limited time.
• Trademarks protect brand names, logos, and slogans.
• Trademarks help customers identify products and companies.
• Trade secrets protect confidential business information.
• Secret formulas, recipes, and manufacturing processes can be trade secrets.
• These protections encourage creativity and innovation.
• These protections help creators and businesses benefit from their work.

Resources

• Explanations of Copyrights, Patents, Trademarks, Trade Secrets (video)

Leader Tips

• Use familiar examples for each type of protection.
• Encourage Scouts to compare the four categories.
• Focus on the purpose of each protection.
• Keep the discussion connected to everyday products and technology.

Requirement 7b: Free Copies of Software

What You Need To Do

Explain when it is acceptable to receive a free copy of a software program from a friend.

Helpful Tips

• Software use is controlled by a license agreement.
• Some software is free to share and use.
• Open-source software often allows sharing.
• Freeware programs can usually be copied according to the license.
• Many commercial programs require a separate license for each user.
• Copying software without permission may violate copyright law.
• Always check the license before sharing or accepting software.
• Software creators decide how their programs may be distributed.

Resources

• Digital Etiquette for Teenagers (video)

Leader Tips

• Discuss the importance of following software licenses.
• Provide examples of free and commercial software.
• Encourage Scouts to read license information.
• Focus on responsible and legal software use.

Requirement 7c: Intellectual Property Dispute

What You Need To Do

Discuss a recent legal case involving an intellectual property dispute. Share what happened and identify the type of intellectual property involved.

Helpful Tips

• Choose a case involving copyright, patents, trademarks, or trade secrets.
• Get permission from a parent or guardian before researching online.
• Read information from reliable sources.
• Identify the people or companies involved.
• Determine which type of intellectual property was part of the dispute.
• Write down the main facts of the case.
• Be prepared to summarize the outcome.
• Bring notes to help with your discussion.

Resources

• Intellectual Property (website)

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts select an age-appropriate case.
• Encourage the use of reliable news and information sources.
• Focus on the intellectual property issues involved.
• Ask Scouts how the case relates to the protections discussed in Requirement 7a.

Requirement 8a: Proper Disposal of Digital Technology

What You Need To Do

Describe why digital devices should be disposed of properly. List at least three dangerous chemicals that may be used in or found inside digital devices.

Helpful Tips

• Digital devices contain materials that can harm the environment.
• Lead is often found in electronic components and solder.
• Mercury has been used in some screens and batteries.
• Cadmium is found in certain types of batteries.
• Arsenic may be present in some electronic parts.
• Harmful chemicals can enter soil and water if devices are discarded improperly.
• Recycling helps keep dangerous materials out of landfills.
• Proper disposal protects people, animals, and natural resources.

Resources

• What Are the Risks of Not Properly Disposing of Technology? (video)
• 3 Simple Tips for Recycling Old Electronics (video)

Leader Tips

• Discuss common electronic devices Scouts use.
• Review several hazardous materials found in electronics.
• Connect proper disposal to environmental stewardship.
• Encourage real-world examples of electronic recycling.

Requirement 8b: Certified Recyclers

What You Need To Do

Explain why it is important to use a certified recycler for digital devices and electronic equipment.

Helpful Tips

• Certified recyclers follow established recycling standards.
• They handle hazardous materials safely.
• Valuable materials can be recovered and reused.
• Certified recyclers reduce environmental pollution.
• Many recyclers erase personal information from devices.
• Proper recycling keeps electronics out of landfills.
• Recycling reduces the need for new raw materials.
• Certified recyclers help protect both people and the environment.

Resources

• How to (Properly) Get Rid of Your E-Waste (video)

Leader Tips

• Discuss environmental and data security benefits.
• Explain why certification matters.
• Encourage Scouts to research local recycling options.
• Focus on responsible disposal practices.

Requirement 8c: Organization That Recycles Electronics

What You Need To Do

Research an organization that collects old digital devices for recycling or repurposing. Find out what happens to the devices after they are collected.

Helpful Tips

• Get permission before conducting online research.
• Choose an organization that handles electronic waste.
• Find out what types of devices it accepts.
• Research how devices are sorted after collection.
• Look for information about repairing usable devices.
• Identify materials recovered during recycling.
• Learn how hazardous materials are handled.
• Take notes to share with your counselor.

Resources

• How E-Wastes Are Recycled (video)

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts locate reliable sources.
• Encourage note-taking during research.
• Discuss the recycling process from collection to reuse.
• Focus on what happens after devices are donated.

Requirement 8d: Visit a Recycling Center

What You Need To Do

Visit a recycling center that accepts digital technology hardware or devices. Find out what happens to the electronic waste and share what you discover.

Helpful Tips

• Contact the facility before visiting.
• Ask what types of electronics they accept.
• Find out how devices are sorted.
• Ask what materials are recycled.
• Learn how hazardous materials are managed.
• Look for equipment used in the recycling process.
• Take notes during the visit.
• Organize your findings before meeting with your counselor.

Resources

• Finding an E-Waste Recycler (website)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to prepare questions in advance.
• Help Scouts focus on the recycling process.
• Discuss observations after the visit.
• Remind Scouts to record important details.

Requirement 8e: Battery Recycling Center

What You Need To Do

Locate a battery recycling center and find out how batteries are recycled. Share what you discover with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Identify a battery recycling center in your area.
• Ask what types of batteries they accept.
• Learn how batteries are collected and sorted.
• Find out how recyclable materials are recovered.
• Research what happens to battery chemicals and metals.
• Learn why batteries should not be thrown into regular trash.
• Take notes about the recycling process.
• Prepare a summary of your findings.

Resources

• Finding a Battery Recycler (website)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to ask questions about battery safety.
• Discuss environmental risks from improper battery disposal.
• Help Scouts identify recyclable battery materials.
• Focus on practical recycling methods used by the facility.

Requirement 9a: Digital Technology Career Research

What You Need To Do

Research a career related to digital technology. Find information about education, training, costs, job duties, salary, job outlook, and advancement opportunities. Discuss your findings with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Choose a career that interests you.
• Research the education required for the job.
• Find out whether certifications are needed.
• Look up salary information from reliable sources.
• Research job growth and future demand.
• Learn about daily job responsibilities.
• Find out how people advance in the career.
• Take notes to share with your counselor.

Possible Careers

• Software Developer
• Web Developer
• Cybersecurity Specialist
• Data Scientist
• Network Administrator
• IT Support Specialist
• Database Administrator
• Cloud Engineer
• Robotics Engineer
• Game Designer
• Mobile App Developer
• AI Engineer
• Digital Marketer
• UI/UX Designer
• Computer Systems Analyst
• Computer Programmer

Resources

• Digital Technology Careers (video)
• The NBA Data Scientist (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to choose a career matching their interests.
• Help Scouts locate reliable career information.
• Discuss both benefits and challenges of the career.
• Focus on practical details such as training and job duties.

Requirement 9b: Using Digital Technology for a Hobby or Interest

What You Need To Do

Explore a hobby or interest that uses skills from the Digital Technology merit badge. Research training, costs, and organizations that support the activity. Discuss possible short-term and long-term goals with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Choose a hobby you would enjoy doing regularly.
• Research any skills needed to get started.
• Find out what equipment or software is required.
• Estimate the costs involved.
• Look for clubs, organizations, or online communities.
• Set a short-term goal you could complete soon.
• Set a long-term goal you could work toward over several years.
• Be prepared to explain why the hobby interests you.

Possible Hobbies and Interests

• Website design
• Computer programming
• Game development
• Digital photography
• Video editing
• Graphic design
• Robotics
• Podcasting
• Blogging
• Digital art
• 3D printing
• Animation
• Video production
• Drone photography
• Electronics projects
• App development

Resources

• Tech Hobbies: The Best Technology Hobbies You Need to Try (video)
• 20 Computer Hobbies That Will Entertain You for Long (website)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to connect hobbies with personal interests.
• Help Scouts identify realistic goals.
• Discuss training and costs before making plans.
• Focus on how digital technology supports the activity.

Multimedia Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA

The Multimedia Troop Program Feature helps Scouts explore their creativity using cameras and other technology. Scouts can learn about internet safety, filming tips, scriptwriting, and video editing. Activities are grouped as essential, challenging, or advanced, like creating a six-second script or editing a video for YouTube. Games like Photo Scavenger Hunt or Script Reading keep meetings fun.

The “Main Event” encourages Scouts to make videos of varying lengths to showcase their skills. This feature ties in well with the Digital Technology merit badge, which teaches Scouts to use technology responsibly and creatively, preparing them for projects and real-world challenges.

Communication Program Feature for Scouts BSA Troops

The Communication Troop Program Feature helps Scouts develop skills to give and receive information effectively. Scouts learn about verbal and non-verbal communication, body language, and methods like the EDGE process. Activities include charades, planning a campfire program, or teaching internet safety. Games like Who Am I? and Follow My Voice make meetings fun.

The “Main Event” may involve visiting a media outlet, taking a communication hike, or working on the Communication merit badge during a camping trip. These skills also connect to the Digital Technology merit badge, helping Scouts understand how communication and technology work together in today’s world.

More Merit Badge Resources

The Digital Technology merit badge gives Scouts a simple way to learn how computers, devices, and online tools work. It fits well within the full merit badge program because it adds a modern skill to a list that includes outdoor activities, trades, science, and arts. Scouts learn about hardware, software, storage, and safe use. This helps balance the wide range of choices by offering a subject that relates to everyday life.

It also connects to badges like Programming, Robotics, and Photography. Scouts who enjoy building or creating with technology often find this badge helpful. It supports the program’s goal of giving Scouts many different paths to explore.

Learn More about Scouts BSA

The Digital Technology merit badge supports the larger goals of Scouts BSA by teaching problem-solving, clear thinking, and responsibility. These skills help Scouts grow into leaders who use technology wisely.

It also ties into fitness, citizenship, and personal development. Understanding safe and respectful online behavior supports good citizenship. Learning how to manage digital tools builds confidence and prepares Scouts for future challenges.

What is the Digital Technology merit badge?

The Digital Technology merit badge teaches Scouts how computers, software, and digital devices work. Scouts learn about online safety, careers in technology, and how to use digital tools responsibly.

What are the requirements for the Digital Technology merit badge?

Scouts complete projects using programs like spreadsheets, word processors, and presentation tools. They also learn about topics like online safety, intellectual property, and the proper disposal of digital devices.

Do I need to know coding to earn the Digital Technology merit badge?

No, coding is not required. However, you will learn how programs work and how they make digital devices useful.

What kinds of projects do I need to complete?

You will create things like a food budget, a troop flier, a presentation, or a blog. You must back up your files and share them with your counselor.

Why do I need to learn about online safety for the Digital Technology merit badge?

Online safety is important to protect yourself and your information when using the internet. The badge helps Scouts learn to use technology responsibly.

What careers in digital technology can I learn about?

Careers include software development, cybersecurity, web design, robotics, and digital marketing. You will research one career in depth as part of the badge.

What do I do with old digital devices?

The Digital Technology merit badge teaches Scouts about recycling and proper disposal of devices. This protects the environment and prevents harm from dangerous chemicals.

Can I complete the Digital Technology merit badge on my own?

You will need to work with a counselor to complete the badge. They will guide you through the requirements and review your projects.

Do I need access to special equipment for this badge?

Most requirements can be done with a computer, smartphone, or tablet. Free software programs are often enough for the projects.

Why is the Digital Technology merit badge important?

It helps Scouts understand how to use technology in smart and responsible ways. The skills you learn are useful for school, work, and everyday life.

The Digital Technology merit badge is designed to help Scouts understand the role of computers, devices, and the internet in everyday life. It gives Scouts hands-on experience with digital tools and teaches them how to use technology responsibly. From exploring online safety to learning how apps and programs work, this badge helps Scouts gain valuable skills they can use at school, in hobbies, or for future careers.

Scouts work on practical projects like creating spreadsheets, designing fliers, or building presentations. They also learn how to back up files and organize information. These tasks teach problem-solving, creativity, and attention to detail. The badge also includes researching careers in technology or visiting businesses to see how digital tools are used.

Another important part of the Digital Technology merit badge is learning about online safety, intellectual property, and recycling old devices. Scouts discover how to protect their personal information and why it’s important to follow laws about copyright and patents. They also learn how recycling helps prevent harmful chemicals from damaging the environment.

This badge prepares Scouts for a world that increasingly depends on technology. It encourages them to think critically about how they use digital tools and inspires them to consider how technology shapes the future.