Last year, South African Grade 5 pupils were ranked last in maths and science among 54 countries, highlighting a concerning trend in the education system. In response to this, popular short video platform TikTok has introduced a new feature called Stem Feed, aimed at making science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) more accessible and engaging for users.
Stem Feed is a curated feed of high-quality STEM content in partnership with Common Sense Networks and Poynter. This new feature is designed to showcase videos from respected experts in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math. With auto-translated subtitles in English, verified by fact-checking organisations, users can now access a wealth of knowledge and information in more than 20 countries.
The launch of Stem Feed comes at a crucial time when South Africa is struggling to keep up with global standards in maths and science education. According to the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) in 2023, South African Grade 5 students scored below countries like Morocco, Brazil, and Saudi Arabia in both mathematics and science. This decline in performance from previous years calls for innovative solutions to bridge the gap in STEM education.
Boniswa Sidwaba, Head of Content Operations Sub-Saharan Africa at TikTok, emphasized that the platform is more than just entertainment. TikTok serves as a space for discovery and learning, where users can explore new topics and expand their knowledge. The #STEMTok initiative aims to educate and inspire users, particularly teenagers who make up a significant portion of TikTok’s user base.
Through Stem Feed, users can delve into a wide range of STEM topics, including bacteria, planetary science, astrophysics, technology, and robotics. This curated feed not only offers educational content but also fosters a sense of community among users with shared interests. Parents and guardians can feel confident that TikTok provides a platform for learning and growth, beyond viral dance trends and music challenges.
As TikTok continues to evolve and cater to a diverse audience, the Stem community is expected to grow, with content creators passionate about sharing their knowledge and experiences. By leveraging the power of technology and social media, TikTok has the potential to shape and inspire a generation of learners, helping to bridge the educational gap in STEM subjects.
In conclusion, TikTok’s Stem Feed initiative is a step towards promoting STEM education and fostering a culture of learning and discovery among users. By providing access to high-quality STEM content, TikTok is not only entertaining but also educational, making a positive impact on the learning experiences of its users.
