Short-form video platforms like TikTok have revolutionized the way we consume and create informal learning content. While TikTok is often associated with entertainment and trends, it has also become a significant medium for informal learning, particularly for adults. Understanding how adults learn on TikTok can provide valuable insights for educators and content creators aiming to engage college students more effectively.
This project is being conducted by a team of undergraduate researchers from five universities throughout the country as part of the iSchool Inclusion Institute.
Why Study Adult Learning on TikTok?
Engagement and Accessibility:
- TikTok’s format of short, engaging videos makes learning accessible and less intimidating. Adults who may feel overwhelmed by traditional educational content can find TikTok videos more approachable.
- The platform’s algorithm curates personalized content, increasing the likelihood of users engaging with educational material that aligns with their interests and learning needs.
Diverse Learning Styles:
- TikTok caters to various learning styles—visual, auditory, and kinesthetic. Creators often combine visuals, text, and sound to reinforce concepts, making it easier for users to understand and retain information.
- The use of storytelling and real-life applications in videos helps contextualize learning, making abstract concepts more relatable and easier to grasp.
Community and Peer Learning:
- TikTok fosters a sense of community among learners. The platform’s interactive features, such as comments and duets, encourage discussions and peer-to-peer learning.
- Users can learn from each other’s experiences, gaining different perspectives and enhancing their understanding of various subjects.
Motivation and Relevance:
- Content on TikTok is often created by influencers who understand the current trends and issues relevant to their audience. This makes the learning material more engaging and applicable to real-life situations.
- The informal setting reduces the pressure associated with traditional learning environments, increasing intrinsic motivation to learn.
What TikTok Influencers Can Teach Us About Creating Effective Videos for College Students
- Concise and Focused Content:
- TikTok influencers excel in creating concise videos that deliver clear and focused messages. For college students, this means breaking down complex topics into manageable segments that are easier to digest and remember.
- Creative Presentation:
- Using creative visuals, animations, and engaging narratives, influencers capture attention and make learning enjoyable. Incorporating similar techniques in educational videos can help maintain students’ interest and improve retention.
- Interactive Elements:
- Influencers often use polls, questions, and call-to-action prompts to engage their audience. Implementing these interactive elements in educational content can encourage active participation and deeper learning.
- Relatability and Authenticity:
- Authenticity is key on TikTok. Influencers who share personal stories and experiences build trust and relatability. Educators can adopt this approach by sharing real-world examples and personal insights to create a more connected and impactful learning experience.
- Timely and Relevant Content:
- Staying current with trends and incorporating them into educational content makes learning more relevant to students’ lives. Influencers’ ability to adapt to trends can inspire educators to update their material regularly, ensuring it remains engaging and pertinent.
Studying adult learning in informal contexts on TikTok reveals important strategies for creating engaging and effective educational content. By learning from TikTok influencers, educators can develop innovative video content that resonates with college students, fostering a more dynamic and inclusive learning environment. The future of education lies in blending traditional methods with modern, digital approaches to meet the evolving needs of learners.
