Eyes and Spies: How You're Tracked and Why You Should Know (A Visual Exploration)
What’s inside...
Eyes and Spies delves into the collection and usage of personal information by various entities such as individuals, governments, companies, and organizations. It explores various aspects of surveillance and privacy through different chapters, each covering topics such as data collection, computer surveillance, and personal privacy. The book poses critical questions about monitoring and privacy boundaries and presents arguments for both increased security and privacy, encouraging readers to form their own opinions. It also includes 'Creepy Line' sidebars that present real-life scenarios for readers to consider their own privacy boundaries, and 'Action Alerts' that prompt further exploration into how surveillance impacts them. The book is visually appealing with color illustrations and is designed to be engaging for middle-grade and older readers.
Age
10-13
Length
140 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some ways technology can be beneficial for people, and can you think of times when it might be problematic?
After reading about how our information is tracked, how does it make you feel about using the internet or social media?
What are some rules you think would be good to have when using the internet to keep our information safe?
Why do you think it's important for people to know about how they are being tracked?
Can you think of a situation where someone might use your tracked information in a way that could be helpful or harmful?
Tip: Role play these questions
To foster an engaging dialogue, start by sharing your own experiences with technology and privacy. Explain concepts in age-appropriate language, and relate them to situations familiar to your child, such as using apps for school or games. Encourage them to ask questions and express their thoughts and feelings about data privacy. Make sure to listen attentively to their opinions and validate their feelings, providing a safe space for an open conversation. Highlight the importance of staying informed and cautious while navigating the digital world.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Privacy Awareness
Explanation: The book educates children on how personal data is collected and used in the digital world.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to make informed decisions about sharing personal information online.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: It encourages readers to think critically about who is collecting data and why.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these skills to evaluate information and make smart choices about their digital interactions.
Example Lesson: Understanding Digital Footprints
Explanation: ‘Eyes and Spies’ explains the concept of digital footprints and their long-term impacts.
Real-World Application: This helps children understand the consequences of their online activities and encourages them to behave responsibly on the internet.
Example Lesson: Ethical Considerations of Surveillance
Explanation: Discusses the balance between security and privacy, and the ethics of surveillance.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to consider different perspectives on privacy issues and understand the implications of surveillance in society.
Example Lesson: Personal Responsibility
Explanation: The book stresses the importance of being mindful about protecting one’s personal information.
Real-World Application: This instills a sense of personal responsibility towards maintaining privacy and safety online.