Artificial Intelligence
15 / 15 seats taken | Badge Info
Description
The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Merit Badge introduces Scouts to the fundamentals of AI and automation through hands-on activities and real-world examples. Scouts learn key terms, explore how AI and automation are used in daily life, school, and work, and examine ethical concerns like bias and privacy. They also investigate deepfakes, practice communicating effectively with AI, and apply their knowledge through a project or teaching activity. Finally, Scouts explore career paths in AI by researching or interviewing professionals in the field.
Meeting Times
- Aug 1, 11:00 am - 01:45 pm EDT
Prerequisites
Disclaimer:
This merit badge is discussion-based and activity-driven, covering how AI works, how it is used in daily life, and its ethical implications, and includes guided discussion, scenarios, and a hands-on AI activity where Scouts are expected to participate and contribute when called on. Scouts are encouraged to review the merit badge pamphlet and requirements before class to prepare, and while not every Scout will answer every question, all should be ready to participate when selected.
This merit badge is discussion-based and activity-driven, covering how AI works, how it is used in daily life, and its ethical implications, and includes guided discussion, scenarios, and a hands-on AI activity where Scouts are expected to participate and contribute when called on. Scouts are encouraged to review the merit badge pamphlet and requirements before class to prepare, and while not every Scout will answer every question, all should be ready to participate when selected.
Pre-Class Preparation:
To help us complete the badge in the 2-hour 45-minute session, Scouts should come prepared to discuss the following:
Requirement 3 – AI in Daily Life
Be ready with 5–10 examples of AI in:
- Everyday life
- School or work
- Society
Requirement 4 – AI Impacts and Ethics
Be prepared to discuss:
- One benefit of AI
- One risk (bias, privacy, misinformation, etc.)
- How AI affects decisions or daily life
Requirement 7 – In-Class AI Activity
This requirement will be completed during class.
Scouts will:
- Enter prompts into an AI tool
- Review outputs
- Compare responses
- Discuss accuracy, bias, and limitations
Technology Requirements:
Scouts should join from a Windows, macOS, or Linux computer whenever possible.
A computer is strongly recommended because Requirement 7 requires real-time use of a web-based AI tool. It should have the following.
- Modern web browser (Chrome, Edge, Safari, Firefox)
- Ability to type and view outputs clearly
Phones and tablets may work for discussion, but are not recommended for the hands-on activity.
Scouts without a compatible device may not be able to complete Requirement 7 fully and could receive a partial completion.
Questions, comments, concerns:
We are here to help and want everyone to get this badge and have some fun doing it. If you have questions or issues, please reach out:
- Session 1 (6:00 AM): laxchris77@gmail.com
- Session 2 (11:00 AM): nathanabdelmalek@gmail.com
Please include at least one additional adult in your email per Scouting guidelines.