TikTok Cranks Up Educational Factor With New Feed Dedicated To STEM
In honor of Pi Day, TikTok has created a special For You Page (FYP) dedicated to STEM, or science, technology, engineering, and math. On the app, related tags to the subject have received over 110 billion views, demonstrating the popularity of educational content.
The majority of users, particularly the younger generation, continue to spend most of their time on TikTok. In addition, The New York Times reports that children and teenagers increasingly use the platform as a search engine rather than Google to get their news.
@katvoltage Drop any questions you have for me in the comments! #katyaechazarreta #space #spacethings #stem #engineer #rocket #launchday #nasa #womeninstem #latina #mexico #mexicana #citizenastronaut ♬ Chopin Nocturne No. 2 Piano Mono - moshimo sound design
Yet, on websites like this, false information frequently proliferates. According to NewsGuard’s study, roughly 20% of videos include inaccurate material. Therefore, the things people watch must undergo thorough research with reliable facts. Both Common Sense Networks, which will determine if the videos are appropriate, and The Poynter Institute for Media Studies, which will assess the source’s credibility, will approve all content on the new dedicated FYP.
In addition, the new feed intends to showcase STEM creators and the significance of early involvement in the fields. Given that many younger people—and even older people—are influenced by what they see online, it might also encourage a new generation of men and women in STEM.
@chemteacherphil I got a charge out of this experiment! #learnontiktok #chemistry #chemteacherphil ♬ original sound - Phillip Cook
The STEM-dedicated feed joins Topic Feeds for Sports, Video Games, Fashion, and Food. Later this month, users in the US will get access to it. Unfortunately, it is unclear when other markets will receive it.
