Anyone else here happen to hear about the Cub Scouts' implementation of video game-related activities into its Academics and Sports Program? I didn't really believe it when I read the original article (which I found through Kotaku), but I've been looking around on a few Boy/Cub Scout-related Web sites and have confirmed that it's legit. I'm not sure if it's official, but I stumbled upon a PDF that details the program requirements, as well.



QUOTE
Video Games is one of the forthcoming new Cub Scout belt loops for the Cub Scout Academics and Sports Program.

Requirements

Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, and Webelos Scouts may complete requirements in a family, den, pack, school, or
community environment. A Tiger Cub must work with his parent or adult partner. Parents and partners do not earn loops or pins.

Belt Loop
Complete these three requirements:
1. Explain why it is important to have a rating system for video games. Check your video games to be sure they are right for your age.
2. With an adult, create a schedule for you to do things that includes your chores, homework, and video gaming. Do your best to follow this schedule.
3. Learn to play a new video game that is approved by your parent, guardian, or teacher.

Academics Pin
Earn the Video Games belt loop and complete five of the following requirements:
1. With your parents, create a plan to buy a video game that is right for your age group.
2. Compare two game systems (for example, Microsoft Xbox, Sony PlayStation, Nintendo Wii, and so on). Explain some of the differences between the two. List good reasons to purchase or use a game system.
3. Play a video game with family members in a family tournament.
4. Teach an adult or a friend how to play a video game.
5. List at least five tips that would help someone who was learning how to play your favorite video game.
6. Play an appropriate video game with a friend for one hour.
7. Play a video game that will help you practice your math, spelling, or another skill that helps you in your schoolwork.
8. Choose a game you might like to purchase. Compare the price for this game at three different stores. Decide which store has the best deal. In your decision, be sure to consider things like the store return policy and manufacturer’s warranty.
9. With an adult’s supervision, install a gaming system.

I've noticed that everyone seems to be really divided over it. Obviously, I'm siding with anyone in support of it, not just because I love video games, but because of how it's being implemented. All of the points described in the above material still promote responsibility and the sharing of knowledge (and it could potentially educate people on the positive aspects of gaming to dispel the negative stereotypes surrounding gaming). Unfortunately, there are too many people out there who think that video games are "teh evil" because they're not necessarily outdoor activities. That cave man mentality just disgusts me.