Programming Merit Badge

The Programming merit badge teaches Scouts important skills for the modern world. Programming is about writing instructions that computers can follow. Scouts who work on this merit badge learn how to think logically and solve problems. These are valuable skills they can use in many areas of life.

By earning the Programming merit badge, Scouts get a chance to explore coding. They learn how computer programs are made and how they can create their own. Scouts also see how programming is used in everyday life, from apps to websites to video games. This can help them understand the technology they use every day.

Working on the Programming merit badge helps Scouts develop patience and creativity. Writing code often involves trial and error, so they learn to stay focused and find solutions. They also get to use their imagination to create something new, like a simple game or a useful program.

Scouts who complete the Programming merit badge may discover a passion for technology. They could decide to explore computer science in school or even as a career. This merit badge opens the door to many exciting opportunities in the future.

The requirements for this merit badge were updated effective January 1, 2025.

Download the Programming Merit Badge Requirements

Programming Merit Badge Pamphlet

Programming Merit Badge Workbook / Worksheet

Programming Merit Badge Printable Requirement Check Off Sheet

Checklist for All Merit Badges

Help with Answers for Programming Merit Badge Requirements

Find specific helps for some of the Programming 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: History
• Requirement 3: General Knowledge
• Requirement 4: Intellectual Property
• Requirement 5: Project
• Requirement 6: Careers
• More Resources

Understanding Digital Safety for the Programming Merit Badge

As part of the Programming merit badge, Scouts are encouraged to learn about digital safety. This is an important topic because programming and technology often involve using the internet and computers. Understanding how to stay safe online helps Scouts use technology responsibly.

The “Digital Safety” video in the Personal Safety Awareness series is a great resource. It explains how to avoid risks like scams, cyberbullying, and sharing personal information online. Watching this video with a parent or guardian is important because it gives Scouts a chance to ask questions and discuss what they learn.

Here are some key points about digital safety to help Scouts as they work on the Programming merit badge:

• Be careful about the information you share online. Personal details like your full name, address, or phone number should stay private.
• Only use trusted websites and programs. If something feels suspicious, ask a trusted adult.
• Protect your accounts with strong passwords. Avoid sharing your passwords with anyone except your parents or guardians.
• Stay respectful in online communication. Being kind and polite helps create a positive digital environment.

Understanding digital safety not only helps you complete the Programming merit badge, but it also teaches you how to use technology safely in your everyday life. These skills will help you make smart choices when using computers and the internet.

Staying Safe and Healthy While Working on the Programming Merit Badge

Programming activities might seem safe because they often happen indoors, but they can still lead to certain injuries if you’re not careful. Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) and eyestrain are the most common issues. Learning how to prevent and handle these problems is an important part of working on the Programming merit badge.

Repetitive stress injuries happen when you do the same motion over and over, like typing on a keyboard or using a mouse for long periods. These injuries can cause pain in your hands, wrists, or arms. To prevent RSIs, take regular breaks to stretch your fingers and wrists. Make sure your workstation is set up so your arms are comfortable and your wrists are not bent while typing. If you notice pain or discomfort, stop what you’re doing and let your hands rest. For serious pain, you should see a doctor.

Eyestrain is another common problem when working on programming. Staring at a computer screen for too long can make your eyes feel tired or dry. To prevent eyestrain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Adjust your screen brightness and sit an arm’s length away from your monitor. If your eyes feel sore, close them for a few minutes or use a cool cloth for relief. If problems continue, talk to an eye doctor.

By understanding these risks and how to prevent them, you can stay healthy while working on the Programming merit badge. These tips will help you enjoy programming safely and build good habits for using computers in the future.

Exploring the History of Programming for the Programming Merit Badge

Understanding the history of programming helps Scouts appreciate how far technology has come. When working on the Programming merit badge, learning about the evolution of programming languages shows how computers have grown more powerful and easier to use over time. It also highlights the milestones that shaped the tools programmers use today.

Programming started with simple instructions given to early mechanical and electronic computers. In the early 1800s, Ada Lovelace is credited with writing the first algorithm for Charles Babbage’s Analytical Engine, even though the machine was never completed. Later, in the 1940s, programmers began using machine code—binary instructions that computers could directly understand. This process was slow and required great precision, leading to the creation of more advanced languages.

Here are some key milestones in the history of programming:

• 1843: Ada Lovelace wrote the first algorithm for a machine, often earning her the title of the first programmer.
• 1936: Alan Turing introduced the concept of a “universal machine,” the basis for modern computers.
• 1940s: The first computer programs were written in machine code for early computers like ENIAC.
• 1950: Assembly language, a low-level programming language, made coding slightly easier by using simple words instead of numbers.
• 1957: FORTRAN, the first widely-used programming language, was developed for scientific work.
• 1960: COBOL was introduced, making programming more practical for businesses.
• 1972: The C programming language was developed. It became the foundation for many modern languages like C++ and Python.
• 1980s: Object-oriented programming became popular, allowing developers to write more complex and reusable code.
• 2000s and beyond: New languages like JavaScript, Python, and Swift made programming more accessible, especially for apps, websites, and games.

These early achievements laid the foundation for later advancements, such as the creation of C, object-oriented programming, and user-friendly languages like Python. The Programming merit badge encourages Scouts to explore how these milestones changed the world and to imagine what the future of programming might hold.

Popular Programming Languages and Where They Are Used

As part of the Programming merit badge, Scouts can explore popular programming languages and the industries that rely on them. Different languages are suited for different tasks, and understanding their uses helps Scouts see the variety of opportunities in programming. Here are some of the most popular languages and their primary applications:

• Python: Known for being beginner-friendly, Python is widely used in fields like data science, web development, and artificial intelligence. Its simplicity and flexibility make it a favorite for creating machine learning models and analyzing data.
• Java: Java is often used in mobile app development, especially for Android apps. It is also popular in enterprise software because it runs well on many different systems.
• JavaScript: This language powers the interactive parts of websites, like buttons and animations. It is essential in web development and is also used in building apps and games that run in browsers.
• C++: C++ is common in industries like video game development, robotics, and systems programming. It is known for its speed and ability to handle complex tasks.
• C#: Used mainly in game development, especially with the Unity engine, and also for creating Windows desktop applications.
• Swift: Apple created Swift for developing iOS and macOS apps. It is user-friendly and helps developers create apps for iPhones and other Apple devices.
• Ruby: Ruby is popular for building web applications. It is known for its use in the Ruby on Rails framework, which makes developing websites faster and easier.
• SQL: This language is used to manage and analyze data stored in databases. It is essential in industries like finance, healthcare, and e-commerce.
• HTML and CSS: While technically not programming languages, they are crucial for web development. HTML structures websites, and CSS makes them look appealing.

By learning about these languages during the Programming merit badge, Scouts gain a better understanding of the technology around them. Each language opens doors to specific industries, helping Scouts see the wide range of careers and hobbies that programming can lead to.

Everyday Devices That Use Programming

Programming is all around us, powering many of the devices we rely on every day. While working on the Programming merit badge, Scouts can learn how coding helps make these devices work. Understanding these examples shows how important programming is in our daily lives.

Here are some examples of programmed devices you use every day:

• Smartphones: Your phone runs many apps and services that are all powered by programming. From sending messages to using maps, every action depends on code.
• Computers and Laptops: Whether you’re playing games, browsing the internet, or doing homework, programming allows your computer to perform tasks.
• Smart Home Devices: Devices like smart speakers, thermostats, and lights are programmed to respond to your voice or app commands.
• Video Game Consoles: Gaming systems and the games themselves rely on programming to create graphics, gameplay, and interactions.
• Cars: Modern cars use software to control everything from navigation systems to safety features like airbags and anti-lock brakes.
• Appliances: Washing machines, microwaves, and refrigerators often include programmed features, like automatic timers and temperature settings.
• ATMs and Payment Systems: When you withdraw money or use a credit card, programming ensures secure and accurate transactions.

While earning the Programming merit badge, Scouts can think about how these devices improve our lives. Learning programming skills helps you understand how these tools work and could even inspire you to create new devices in the future.

Protecting Computer Programs: Types of Intellectual Property

Understanding intellectual property is an important part of the Programming merit badge. Computer programs and other creations are protected by intellectual property laws to make sure the people who develop them get credit and control how their work is used. There are four main types of intellectual property that apply to programming.

• Copyright: Copyright protects the specific code of a program. It prevents others from copying, sharing, or using the code without permission. This is the most common way programmers protect their work.
• Patents: Patents protect new and original inventions, including unique programming methods or software innovations. A patent ensures that only the inventor can make, use, or sell their invention for a certain number of years.
• Trademarks: Trademarks protect names, logos, or symbols associated with a program or company. For example, the logo of a software product can be trademarked to make sure others don’t use it in a misleading way.
• Trade Secrets: Trade secrets protect confidential information that gives a program or company a competitive advantage. This could include algorithms, processes, or tools used to develop software. Trade secrets are protected as long as they remain secret.

By learning about these protections during the Programming merit badge, Scouts can better understand how creators safeguard their ideas. These laws encourage innovation by giving people the right to benefit from their work while protecting it from misuse.

Licensing vs. Owning Software: What’s the Difference?

When you use software, you’re usually not buying it outright. Instead, you are getting a license to use it. This is an important concept to understand when working on the Programming merit badge. Knowing the difference between licensing and owning software helps Scouts respect intellectual property and use software responsibly.

• Licensing Software: When you license software, you’re paying for permission to use it under certain conditions. The software creator or company still owns the program, and you agree to follow their rules. For example, you might only be allowed to use the software on one computer or for personal, non-commercial use. Licenses can also have time limits, like a one-year subscription.
• Owning Software: Owning software is much less common. This means you fully own a copy of the program, and you can use it however you like. However, even when you “own” software, you still can’t copy or distribute it without permission because the copyright belongs to the creator.

Understanding licensing is important because it explains why you need to follow the rules when using software. The Programming merit badge teaches Scouts about respecting these agreements. Following licensing rules not only keeps you legal but also supports the programmers and companies that create the software you use.

Freeware, Open Source, and Commercial Software: What’s the Difference?

When working on the Programming merit badge, Scouts learn about different types of software and why it’s important to respect the terms of use for each. Freeware, open source, and commercial software are three common types, and each has its own rules about how it can be used.

• Freeware: Freeware is software that is free to use, but it still belongs to the creator. You can download and use it without paying, but you usually can’t change it or redistribute it. Examples include free apps and tools like web browsers or media players.
• Open Source: Open source software allows you to view, modify, and share the program’s code. This type of software is often created by communities of developers who work together to improve it. Open source programs like Linux or Blender encourage collaboration, but you still need to follow the rules set by the license, such as giving credit to the original creators.
• Commercial Software: Commercial software is created to make money. You usually need to buy it or pay for a subscription to use it. Examples include popular programs like Microsoft Office or Adobe Photoshop. Using commercial software without paying for it (piracy) is illegal and unfair to the people who made it.

Respecting the terms of use for each type of software is important because it supports the people and teams behind the programs. The Programming merit badge helps Scouts understand these differences so they can use software responsibly and ethically. This respect helps build a trustworthy and fair programming community.

Writing and Debugging Programs for the Programming Merit Badge

One of the most exciting parts of the Programming merit badge is creating your own programs using different languages and development environments. This helps Scouts learn how programming languages work and how to solve problems with code. For this requirement, you will choose three different programming languages and environments, write or modify programs, and explain how they work.

Here’s what you’ll do for each program:

• First Language and Environment: Choose a language like Python and an environment like IDLE or Visual Studio Code. Write or modify a program that takes input (like asking for a number) and makes a decision based on that input (like determining if the number is even or odd). Debug the program to fix any errors, then demonstrate it to your counselor. Explain how the program reads the input, uses an “if” statement to decide if the number is even or odd, and outputs the result.
• Second Language and Environment: Try a language like Java in an environment such as Eclipse or IntelliJ. Write a program that asks for a user’s age and tells them if they are eligible to vote. Debug the program and show it to your counselor. Describe how the program gets the input, compares it to the minimum voting age, and prints a message like “You can vote!” or “You cannot vote yet.”
• Third Language and Environment: Use a web-focused language like JavaScript with a browser-based environment or an editor like CodePen. Create a simple web page that asks for a user’s name and displays a personalized greeting. Debug your code and present it to your counselor. Explain how the program collects the name using a form, processes the input, and updates the webpage to say something like “Hello, [Name]!”

By completing this requirement, you’ll gain hands-on experience with programming and learn how to debug and test your code. The Programming merit badge helps Scouts develop problem-solving skills and confidence in using technology. Trying different languages also shows how programming can be adapted to many types of projects.

Careers That Require Programming Skills

Programming skills open the door to many exciting career opportunities. While working on the Programming merit badge, Scouts can explore how programming is used in different industries. Here are some careers that rely on programming knowledge:

• Software Developer: Software developers create programs and apps for computers, phones, and other devices. They design, code, and test software to make sure it works properly.
• Web Developer: Web developers build and maintain websites. They use programming to create interactive features, design layouts, and ensure websites run smoothly on different devices.
• Game Developer: Game developers use programming to create video games. They design characters, levels, and gameplay mechanics, combining creativity with technical skills.
• Data Scientist: Data scientists analyze large amounts of data to find patterns and solve problems. They use programming to create tools that organize and interpret information.
• Cybersecurity Analyst: Cybersecurity analysts protect computers and networks from hackers. They write programs to detect threats and ensure systems stay secure.
• Artificial Intelligence Engineer: AI engineers use programming to create systems that can learn and make decisions, like virtual assistants or self-driving cars.
• Robotics Engineer: Robotics engineers design robots and program them to perform tasks, from assembling cars to exploring space.
• IT Support Specialist: IT support specialists use programming to troubleshoot and improve computer systems for companies and organizations.

The Programming merit badge helps Scouts see how programming can lead to rewarding careers. Learning these skills gives you the chance to create, solve problems, and contribute to exciting projects in many fields.

More Merit Badge Resources

Merit badges are a fun way for Scouts to explore new skills and learn about interesting topics. With more than 100 merit badges to choose from, you can try everything from outdoor skills to fine arts, science, and future careers. You don’t need to earn a rank first—any Scout can work on any merit badge at any time. Merit badges help you discover hobbies, develop talents, and even plan for a future job.

The Programming merit badge is one example of how merit badges can teach important skills for today’s world. It introduces Scouts to coding and problem-solving through hands-on activities. Other merit badges focus on nature, sports, business, or creative skills. Each one gives you the chance to learn, grow, and explore your interests. Ask your Scoutmaster about merit badges like the Programming merit badge to get started!

Learn More about Scouts BSA

Scouts BSA is a program for youth aged 11 through 17 that helps them grow into confident and responsible individuals. Through activities like camping, hiking, and service projects, Scouts learn teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Scouts also progress through ranks and earn merit badges, which let them explore interests like outdoor skills, science, or technology. The Programming merit badge is one way Scouts can develop modern skills and learn about coding and technology.

The program encourages personal growth and leadership by promoting the Scout Oath and Law. Scouts work together in patrols, gaining hands-on experience with decision-making and teamwork. They can pursue a variety of goals, from earning the prestigious Eagle Scout rank to exploring hobbies and potential careers. With options like the Programming merit badge, Scouts BSA helps young people gain the knowledge and confidence they need to succeed in life.

What is the Programming merit badge about?

The Programming merit badge teaches Scouts how to write code, debug programs, and understand different types of software. It also helps Scouts learn about the history of programming and how it’s used in everyday life.

Do I need to know programming before starting the Programming merit badge?

No, you don’t need to know programming before starting. The badge is designed to help you learn basic skills, even if you’re a beginner.

What tools will I need for the Programming merit badge?

You’ll need access to a computer and software to write and run programs. Your counselor will guide you in choosing the right tools and programming languages.

What kinds of programs will I write for the Programming merit badge?

You’ll write or modify programs that take input, make decisions, and produce output. For example, you might create a program to solve math problems or display personalized messages.

Why do I need to learn about digital safety for the Programming merit badge?

Learning about digital safety helps you use computers responsibly. It teaches you how to protect your personal information and avoid online risks while working on programming projects.

What are some programming languages I might use for the Programming merit badge?

Some common languages include Python, Java, and JavaScript. Your counselor can help you pick the best ones for your projects.

How can the Programming merit badge help me in the future?

The Programming merit badge teaches problem-solving and technical skills. These can be used in school, future jobs, or even creating your own apps, games, or websites.

Can I work on the Programming merit badge with a friend?

Yes, you can work with others, but each Scout needs to write and demonstrate their own programs to complete the requirements.

The Programming merit badge is a great way for Scouts to learn how computers work and how to write code. It introduces basic programming concepts, like taking input, making decisions, and producing output. Scouts get hands-on experience with different programming languages, which helps them build skills and confidence in using technology.

This badge also teaches Scouts about the history of programming and the evolution of programming languages. Learning about milestones in technology shows how programming has shaped the modern world. Scouts can also explore career paths and industries where programming is used, from video game development to robotics.

Another important part of the Programming merit badge is learning how to use technology safely and responsibly. Scouts learn about digital safety and the rules for using software, like licensing and intellectual property. These lessons help them understand the importance of respecting creators and protecting their own work.

The Programming merit badge is not just about writing code—it’s about building problem-solving skills and understanding how programming impacts the world. Scouts who complete this badge may discover a new hobby or even a future career in technology.