Using Tiktok as an Educational Tool for Health Students

Abstract

TikTok, a widely used social media platform, enables users to record, edit and share short videos; this technology review examines its role as a teaching and learning tool in public health (PH) education. Having observed that both foundation year and undergraduate students often struggle to grasp complex PH concepts and their wider societal relevance, I sought to help them by creating short, focused videos that would scaffold learning and enhance engagement; via TikTok, they would deliver high-quality content on contemporary and historical PH issues. I applied TikTok videos in order to: 1) to provide rapid content summaries and assessment guidance; 2) to explain complex theories such as grief models; 3) to share insights from PH experts; 4) to encourage students to use the platform in their own PH practice. My current students’ feedback suggests that the TikTok method both captures their interest and makes applying their knowledge easier; I conclude that it offers much of value to health education. Finally, it is important to acknowledge the wider context in which higher education operates and the current and future influence TikTok has on people’s lives both inside and outside of the classroom.