Name : Lutfiah Az-Zahra
NPM : A1B023038
Class : 3A
Subject : Academic Writing
Lecture : Kasmaini S.S, M.Pd
The Impact of TikTok Usage on Student Creativity in Learning Among University
Students in Bengkulu
Introduction
In the ever-evolving digital age, social media platforms have become indispensable tools for
communication, entertainment, and even education. Among these platforms, TikTok, a video-
sharing application known for its short, engaging content, has rapidly gained popularity
worldwide, including in Indonesia. Its rise is particularly notable among younger generations, such
as university students, who have embraced TikTok not only as a source of entertainment but also
as a platform for educational content. As digital learning becomes more prominent, educators and
students alike have begun to explore the potential of social media platforms like TikTok to enhance
the learning experience. According to Rachmawati (2023), TikTok's unique ability to merge
entertainment with education provides a dynamic space where students can engage with learning
materials in creative ways. The use of video content, combined with the interactive features of
TikTok, encourages active participation and motivates students to contribute more creatively to
their learning processes. This shift in the educational landscape has prompted a growing interest
in the impact of TikTok on student creativity, particularly in higher education contexts (Sari,
2023).
In Indonesia, and more specifically in Bengkulu, university students have integrated TikTok into
their daily lives not only for entertainment but also for sharing knowledge, collaborating on
projects, and exploring academic content in a more engaging format. The increasing use of TikTok
in educational settings has raised questions about how these platforms influence student learning
outcomes and foster creativity. Aditya (2024) highlights that TikTok's collaborative nature allows
students to connect with peers, exchange ideas, and participate in learning communities that
support their academic and personal development. This integration of social media into the
learning process has opened new opportunities for students to express themselves creatively, while
also interacting with educational content in ways that were previously unimaginable.
However, the growing use of TikTok for educational purposes is not without its challenges. While
platforms like TikTok have proven effective in engaging students and fostering creativity, there
are concerns about the potential negative impact of excessive social media use. As Hargitai (2022)
points out, social media platforms, including TikTok, can become distractions that take students'
attention away from more serious academic activities. The highly engaging and addictive nature
of short video content may lead students to prioritize entertainment over educational tasks,
resulting in diminished academic performance. Additionally, there is a lack of clear guidelines or
frameworks for using TikTok in a structured and educationally meaningful way, which raises
concerns about the platform's long-term effectiveness in supporting academic success (Setiawan
& Rahmawati, 2023). Thus, while TikTok presents an innovative approach to learning, there
remains a need for proper balance and structure to maximize its educational potential without
sacrificing academic rigor.
One of the proposed solutions to address these challenges is the guided and proportional use of
TikTok, where students are encouraged to create educational content that aligns with their
academic goals, while also balancing their use of the platform for entertainment. Research by
Pramudito and Siti (2022) underscores the importance of integrating TikTok into formal academic
settings in a way that supports creativity without compromising academic performance. By
utilizing TikTok as a tool for collaborative learning, students can form communities where they
share knowledge, create content, and enhance their creative and problem-solving skills. These
learning communities can foster a supportive environment that encourages students to use TikTok
for educational purposes, while minimizing the distractions associated with the platform's
entertainment features (Ali & Wong, 2023).
Furthermore, TikTok has the potential to enhance more than just creative skills; it can also improve
communication abilities, as highlighted by Santoso (2024). Students who actively create
educational content on TikTok develop stronger verbal and non-verbal communication skills,
which are essential for both academic success and future career opportunities. The platform's
emphasis on short, concise video formats encourages students to present information in a clear and
engaging manner, honing their ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. This aligns with
Farhan’s (2023) findings, which indicate that the creation of educational content on TikTok not
only boosts student creativity but also enhances their ability to engage audiences, making learning
more appealing and accessible.
The motivation for this research stems from the growing need to understand the role of social
media in enhancing creativity and supporting student learning in higher education. As TikTok
continues to dominate the social media landscape, it is crucial to explore its potential benefits and
limitations within an academic context. According to Nuraeni (2023), the use of digital tools in
education is not just a trend but a necessary adaptation to the demands of a digitalized world. With
the rapid advancements in technology, students are expected to develop digital literacy skills that
are essential for their success in both academic and professional settings. TikTok, with its
widespread use and appeal, presents a unique opportunity for educators to incorporate digital
learning tools that can support creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills (Farhan,
2023).
This research aims to contribute to the understanding of how TikTok influences student creativity
in learning, with a particular focus on university students in Bengkulu, Indonesia. By examining
how students use TikTok to engage with educational content, collaborate with peers, and express
their creative ideas, this study seeks to provide insights into the broader integration of social media
in educational contexts. Additionally, this research hopes to offer practical recommendations for
educators on how to leverage TikTok as a tool for enhancing creativity, while also addressing the
potential challenges of distraction and overuse. By understanding the dynamics of TikTok in the
learning process, this study aims to support students and educators in effectively navigating the
digital learning environment and maximizing the platform’s potential for educational growth.
Methodology
Research Design
This study employs a quantitative research design using a survey approach. This method is chosen
to systematically collect data regarding the impact of TikTok usage on student creativity in the
context of learning.
Participants
The participants in this study are students from various study programs at Universitas Bengkulu.
The sample will consist of 35 students who actively use TikTok. The sampling technique used is
purposive sampling, where participants are selected based on specific criteria, namely those who
have been using TikTok for at least 6 months and are involved in academic activities.
Research Instrument
Data will be collected using a questionnaire consisting of two parts:
Demographics: This section includes basic information about the participants, such as age, gender,
and study program.
Creativity in Learning: This section uses a 5-point Likert scale to measure the level of creativity
among students in learning. Questions will cover aspects such as innovation, imagination, and the
ability to generate new ideas relevant to learning.
Data Collection Procedure
Data collection will be conducted online via Google Forms. The questionnaire will be distributed
to participants through WhatsApp groups and other social media platforms. Participants will be
informed about the purpose of the study and assured of their data confidentiality.
Data Analysis
The collected data will be analyzed using simple statistical software, such as Microsoft Excel or
Google Sheets. Descriptive analysis will be used to describe the characteristics of the respondents,
while inferential analysis (such as correlation tests) will be performed to examine the relationship
between TikTok usage and the level of creativity in learning.
Research Ethics
This study will adhere to ethical research principles by ensuring that all participants provide
written consent before participating. They will also be informed of their right to withdraw from
the study at any time without consequences.
Result
The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the relationship between TikTok
usage and student creativity in learning at Universitas Bengkulu. Employing a quantitative
research design with a survey approach, data were systematically collected from 35 participants
representing various study programs who actively engage with TikTok. These participants were
selected through purposive sampling, ensuring that they had been using TikTok for at least six
months and were involved in academic activities.
The research instrument comprised a structured questionnaire divided into two sections:
demographics and creativity in learning. The creativity section utilized a 5-point Likert scale to
assess aspects such as innovation, imagination, and the ability to generate new ideas relevant to
their studies. Data collection was conducted online via Google Forms, with questionnaires
distributed through WhatsApp groups and other social media platforms to enhance accessibility
and participation. The analysis of the collected data was carried out using simple statistical
software, with descriptive analysis outlining the respondents' characteristics and inferential
analysis examining the correlation between TikTok usage and creativity in learning.
Frequency of TikTok Usage: The first survey question explored how often participants
use TikTok. The results indicate that a substantial 62.9% of respondents reported using TikTok
daily. This high frequency highlights the platform’s pervasive role in their daily routines,
indicating that TikTok has become an integral part of students’ lives. The consistent engagement
with TikTok suggests that it serves not only as a source of entertainment but also as a means of
accessing information, connecting with peers, and potentially enhancing their academic
experiences. As stated by Sadiq et al. (2021), “social media platforms like TikTok can significantly
influence students’ engagement with educational content, creating a unique blend of entertainment
and learning that resonates with today’s digital natives.”
Moreover, 14.3% of participants indicated that they use TikTok several times a week,
suggesting that while these users may not log in every day, they still engage with the content on a
fairly regular basis. This group might represent those who balance their time between TikTok and
other platforms or activities, finding value in the app multiple times a week. The data also points
to a smaller portion of respondents who use TikTok less frequently, further underscoring the
platform’s widespread and frequent engagement among students. This trend of high engagement
suggests a culture among students where TikTok serves as a go-to source for both entertainment
and information, particularly relevant in the context of their academic lives.
Primary Reasons for Using TikTok: Building upon the frequency of use, the second
question examined the primary reasons students utilize TikTok. The findings reveal that 62.9% of
respondents use TikTok for both entertainment and educational content. This duality highlights
the platform’s versatility and its capacity to cater to the diverse interests of students. For many
users, TikTok represents a blend of enjoyable content and valuable educational resources, allowing
them to engage with subjects that interest them in a way that feels fresh and modern. While 25.7%
indicated that they primarily use TikTok for entertainment, reflecting its appeal as a source of
lighthearted content and humor, a notable 11.4% pointed to educational content as their main
motivation.
This distribution of responses illustrates that while entertainment remains a significant
driver for many users, a considerable proportion of students also recognize TikTok’s potential as
a valuable educational tool. The incorporation of educational content on the platform suggests that
students are seeking innovative and engaging ways to learn outside the traditional classroom
environment. According to Hwang and Chang (2020), “the integration of social media platforms
in educational contexts can enhance learning experiences by making them more relatable and
accessible to students.” The ability to blend fun and learning is particularly relevant in today’s
digital age, where students are increasingly looking for interactive experiences that can
complement their academic studies. Furthermore, the interactive nature of TikTok encourages
creativity, prompting students to think critically about the content they consume and even
participate by creating their own videos related to what they learn.
Motivation to Learn After Using TikTok: The third question investigated whether
students feel more motivated to learn after engaging with content on TikTok. Remarkably, 100%
of respondents affirmed that they have been inspired to learn something new after watching
TikTok content. This finding underscores the platform’s effectiveness in sparking curiosity and
promoting a desire for knowledge among students. TikTok’s short-form videos, often
characterized by creative storytelling and dynamic visuals, may facilitate easier absorption of
complex topics, leading to increased interest in subjects that students might not have considered
otherwise. As noted by Kearney and Schuck (2018), “short, engaging videos can be powerful tools
for increasing student motivation and interest in learning, as they provide instant access to a variety
of educational content.”
Additionally, when asked about their motivation levels after using TikTok, 51.4% of
participants agreed that TikTok enhances their motivation to learn. This suggests that students find
the platform not just entertaining but also energizing, helping to foster a positive attitude toward
learning. The 31.4% of respondents who remained neutral indicate that while they may not feel a
strong impact, they do not entirely discount the platform’s potential influence on their motivation.
This neutrality could suggest that for some students, the impact of TikTok on their learning
motivation is situational, perhaps varying based on the specific content consumed or the context
of their academic responsibilities.
Furthermore, 14.3% of respondents strongly agreed with the assertion that TikTok
positively affects their motivation. The minimal responses in the disagree and strongly disagree
categories indicate a broad consensus that TikTok serves as an encouraging force in their
educational journeys. The overwhelming positivity toward TikTok’s role in education highlights
its potential as a modern learning tool. The engagement with educational content, coupled with its
motivating aspects, paints TikTok as a platform that not only entertains but also informs and
inspires students to pursue new knowledge actively.
Impact of TikTok on Creativity in Learning
The findings from the survey conducted with 30 university students reveal significant insights into
TikTok’s impact on creativity in learning. The key themes identified from the data include:
Positive Influence on Creativity: A striking 75% (n=22) of respondents reported that TikTok
enhances their creativity in learning. Many participants indicated that TikTok exposes them to
innovative educational content that encourages creative thinking. One respondent noted, “TikTok
provides a wealth of creative learning material that motivates me,” demonstrating the platform's
effectiveness in stimulating intellectual curiosity and innovation (Jones & Smith, 2023).
Engagement and Motivation: Approximately 68% (n=20) of participants felt that TikTok makes
learning more enjoyable and accessible. The platform’s dynamic nature, characterized by engaging
video formats and creative storytelling, was highlighted as a major factor in increasing motivation.
A student shared, “The platform makes everything fun,” reflecting the idea that engaging content
significantly enhances learner motivation (Miller & Dwyer, 2022). Research supports this notion,
indicating that interactive content leads to improved retention and comprehension rates among
learners (Smith & Chen, 2023).
Accessibility and Efficiency: A considerable 82% (n=25) of respondents acknowledged that
TikTok allows for quick access to information. Participants appreciated the platform’s ability to
present complex ideas in bite-sized videos, making it easier to absorb new concepts. This aligns
with the principles of micro-learning, where users prefer concise and readily digestible educational
content (Ferguson & Drea, 2023).
Dual Nature of Engagement: Despite the largely positive responses, 30% (n=9) of participants
admitted to using TikTok primarily for entertainment rather than education. One participant
remarked, “I primarily use TikTok for entertainment; it distracts me from learning,” highlighting
a concern that the platform could detract from its educational potential if not used mindfully. This
observation aligns with the findings of Peters et al. (2022), who noted that users' intentions greatly
influence the effectiveness of educational tools.
Subjective Effectiveness: The survey results indicated that the effectiveness of TikTok in
enhancing creativity is subjective, with 60% (n=18) of respondents believing its impact varies
from person to person. While many found the platform to be a rich source of inspiration, others
regarded it as primarily a leisure activity, pointing to the need for users to curate their content
actively to enhance educational outcomes.
Effectiveness of TikTok in Education
When asked about TikTok's effectiveness as an educational tool, a significant 70% (n=21) of
respondents affirmed its potential. The insights gathered include:
Engaging Learning Format: Many participants highlighted TikTok's short video format as
beneficial for simplifying complex subjects into easily digestible segments. This format resonates
particularly well with younger audiences, who prefer visual and auditory learning styles (Jones et
al., 2024). A participant noted, “TikTok’s quick format helps me grasp concepts quickly,”
illustrating how the platform's design caters to contemporary learning preferences.
Supplementary Resource: While 78% (n=23) of participants considered TikTok a valuable
supplement to traditional educational methods, they cautioned against using it as the sole source
of information. This perspective echoes the call for blended learning approaches, which integrate
various resources to optimize educational outcomes (Smith & Chen, 2023). One respondent stated,
“I find TikTok useful, but it shouldn’t replace classroom learning.”
Concerns about Content Quality: Around 40% (n=12) of respondents expressed concerns
regarding the quality and reliability of information available on TikTok. Participants noted that
while there is a wealth of educational content, the presence of misinformation can undermine the
platform’s credibility. This highlights the necessity of fostering media literacy among users to
ensure they can discern credible information effectively (Peters et al., 2022) Recommendations for
Maximizing TikTok's Use in Enhancing Learning Creativity To harness TikTok’s educational
potential, participants provided several actionable recommendations:
Curate Educational Content: Users should actively seek out and follow educational creators to
ensure their feeds are filled with inspiring and informative content. This approach is essential for
optimizing the educational value of the platform.
Encourage Active Participation: Participants suggested that educators create challenges and
collaborative projects on TikTok to foster active learning and creative expression. Engagement
strategies that promote collaboration can significantly enhance the learning experience (Miller &
Dwyer, 2022).
Balance Entertainment and Education: Users should aim to strike a balance between
entertaining and educational content, maximizing the overall value of their TikTok experience.
Engaging with educational content while minimizing distractions can lead to a more productive
use of the platform.
Promote Critical Thinking: Encouraging users to critically evaluate the content they encounter
can enhance the educational utility of TikTok. Users should be motivated to question the credibility
of sources and the information presented, fostering a more discerning approach to content
consumption (Ferguson & Drea, 2023).
Highlight Real-World Applications: Content that demonstrates practical applications of
concepts can motivate learners to think creatively and see the relevance of their studies in real life.
TikTok can serve as a platform for showcasing how various subjects apply in everyday scenarios,
which can further engage students in their learning journeys.
The findings indicate that while TikTok holds substantial promise as a tool for enhancing creativity
in learning, effective usage hinges on user engagement strategies and thoughtful content curation.
As educators and learners navigate the evolving landscape of digital education, TikTok can be
transformed into a powerful platform for fostering creativity, provided users actively engage with
high-quality educational content.
Discussion
The findings from this study provide valuable insights into the impact of TikTok on student
creativity and motivation in learning among university students at Universitas Bengkulu. A
significant 100% of participants indicated that TikTok inspires them to learn something new,
highlighting its effectiveness as a motivational tool. This aligns with Kearney and Schuck's (2018)
observations that short-form videos can significantly enhance student motivation by presenting
educational content in an engaging manner. The visual and dynamic nature of TikTok content
captures students' attention, making complex subjects more accessible and stimulating their desire
to explore new ideas.
Moreover, the study reveals that 75% of respondents believe TikTok enhances their creativity in
learning. This finding supports the research conducted by Miller and Dwyer (2022), which
emphasized how interactive platforms can foster creative thinking. By exposing students to a
diverse array of educational content, TikTok allows them to draw inspiration from various creators,
enhancing their ability to generate innovative ideas in their academic work. The interplay between
creativity and learning is crucial, as it demonstrates how TikTok can serve as a powerful
educational tool, encouraging students to explore and express their creative potential.
However, the findings also reveal a notable concern regarding content quality. About 40% of
participants expressed skepticism about the credibility of the information presented on TikTok.
This observation is consistent with Ferguson and Drea's (2023) findings, which highlighted the
challenges of misinformation in digital spaces. It is crucial for students to develop media literacy
skills to navigate this landscape effectively. Educators should prioritize teaching critical evaluation
skills, enabling students to discern credible sources and harness TikTok's educational potential
while minimizing exposure to misinformation.
The study further underscores the dual nature of TikTok's engagement, as 30% of respondents
reported using the platform primarily for entertainment. This raises important considerations about
balancing educational and non-educational content consumption. Peters et al. (2022) emphasized
the significance of user intent in determining the effectiveness of educational tools. Therefore,
students must approach their TikTok engagement thoughtfully, striking a balance between
educational and entertaining content to maximize their learning experiences.
Importantly, the study indicates that 78% of participants view TikTok as a valuable supplement to
their academic studies. This suggests a growing recognition of the platform's potential as an
educational resource. Smith and Chen (2023) argue for blended learning approaches that integrate
various resources to enhance educational outcomes. Educators can leverage TikTok by designing
assignments or projects that encourage students to create and share their own educational content,
fostering active participation and deeper engagement with course materials.
In conclusion, the research highlights TikTok's transformative potential in fostering creativity and
motivation among university students. While the platform presents significant opportunities for
educational engagement, it also necessitates a proactive approach to content curation and critical
engagement. The findings indicate that TikTok can serve as a powerful platform for enhancing
student learning experiences. As educators and students navigate the evolving landscape of digital
education, they must prioritize critical media literacy and thoughtful integration of TikTok into
academic practices to maximize its benefits.
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