Avoiding Clickbait

by Kristin Thiel

As digital natives attempt to navigate news sources, media literacy is more important than ever. Understanding who is behind different forms of clickbait like posts, articles, and ads, and the motivation behind this content, is a critical part of distinguishing reputable sources of information from distorted or false information. This must-have volume examines the roots of modern clickbait in the sensationalism of yellow journalism, while guiding readers through the process of recognizing clickbait and reacting to it in savvy ways"--

Genres: Education

64 pages, Paperback

Published January 15, 2019

Reviews

[Gofita · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first in a media literacy series. I think this was a great start in introducing critical thinking about the media and online content for young people. I read it aloud with my 10-year-old and we had some great discussions. I highly recommend it.

[Am Y · Rating 2 out of 5]

A missed opportunity. This book could have been so much more. Instead, the focus is heavily on what constitutes "clickbait" and how/why clickbait is so effective at hooking us in. Yes, that was interesting, but what I found much more fascinating were the few real-life examples the book gives of clickbait, as well as a short snippet about Emerson Spartz, founder of a "viral media company". The book should have delved more into why clickbait developed in the first place, how it can be utilised in spreading viral content, and the far-reaching implications that this brings (e.g. spreading fake news, influencing election results, among many others). It should also discuss the ethics involving these "viral content" and clickbait creators such as Spartz.

[Nihal · Rating 2 out of 5]

I want to read this book, please.