Key Takeaways:
- TikTok rolls out STEM feed in over 20 Sub-Saharan African countries.
- Features expert content with subtitles and strict safety checks.
- Over 15 million STEM videos uploaded globally in three years.
- Teens aged 13-18 get it by default but can opt out.
- Available in English with auto-translate subtitles.
- Successful in the U.S. and Europe, now expanding to Africa.
What’s the STEM Feed All About?
TikTok, the app loved for its fun videos, is now stepping into the world of education with its new STEM feed. This feature is all about science, technology, engineering, and math. It’s right next to your “Following” and “For You” feeds, making it easy to explore.
The STEM feed isn’t just any regular content. It’s got expert-created videos, so you know you’re learning from the best. Plus, everything is in English with subtitles that auto-translate, making it accessible to more people. But here’s the cool part: every video goes through two checks. Common Sense Networks ensures it’s suitable for all ages, and the Poynter Institute makes sure the info is accurate. If a video doesn’t pass either check, it doesn’t make it to the feed.
Why Should You Care About the STEM Feed?
Boniswa Sidwaba from TikTok Africa says, “TikTok isn’t just for fun. It’s where people come to discover new things. STEM helps users explore the world while learning in an engaging way.”
This isn’t the first time TikTok has tried this. The STEM feed was a hit in the U.S. and Europe, leading to a 35% global increase in STEM content. Today, there are nearly 15 million STEM videos on TikTok, showing how much people love learning on the platform.
If you’re between 13 and 18, the STEM feed is on by default. But you can always turn it off in your settings. In the U.S., a third of teens check the STEM feed weekly, so it’s pretty popular!
TikTok: A Hub for Learning
You might know TikTok for trends and fun, but it’s also becoming a big name in education. Take #BookTok, which got young people excited about reading again, or #LearnonTikTok, where you can learn anything from new languages to ancient history.
TikTok in Africa: Growing Fast
Last year, TikTok formed a Safety Advisory Council in Africa to keep the platform safe. They also have a huge user base, with over 17 million users in South Africa alone. But it’s not all smooth sailing. In Kenya, there were talks of banning TikTok over data concerns, though regulators now prefer better rules over a ban.
What’s Next for TikTok?
With the STEM feed, TikTok is showing it’s serious about education. Whether you’re into science or just curious, there’s something for everyone. It’s another way TikTok is helping users learn and grow, making it more than just a place for dances and trends.
So, check out the STEM feed and discover the world of science, tech, and more, all in one app!
