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LOS ANGELES — Girl Scouts could soon earn a badge in video game developing.
The Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles have worked with Women In Games International to develop a patch — more loosely defined than a badge, which is nationally approved — that will recognize Junior Girl Scouts for video game developing work they may accomplish.
Girls will be able to earn the patch by following the curriculum designed to teach them to design and program simple video games, learn about marketing, and leadership.
Though no timetable has been given, the patch is expected to later become a nationally recognized badge. The patch is part of the Girl Scouts' Science, Technology, Engineering and Math program.
"One of the things we do in Girls Scouts is show girls what is possible in their lives: If you can see it you can be it," Carol Dedrich of the Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles told ABC News. "This is us exposing them to females in this industry, which has typically been a male-dominated industry. It helps get rid of those preconceived notions."Carol Dedrich of the Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles told ABC News.
Many are hailing STEM and the video game patch as a step toward closing the gender gap in technology and science industries.
"We want to thank WIGI, GSGLA and all future sponsors for bringing this opportunity to young women," wrote GirlGamer. And to all young women who want to make games - go for it!"
In the early Girl Scouts program, young women could earn up to 26 proficiency badges. At the time, many of them aided war efforts or focused on nature.
Top Image: Matt Slocum/AP Photo
