While the US ban on TikTok comes into force this week, the platform set its sights on solidifying its presence in Australia with the launch of a dedicated STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) feed last week.
The STEM feed not only aims to quench the thirst for knowledge and answers in the field but also to inspire the next generation of engineers, scientists, and doctors.
Simon Bates, head of content for TikTok Australia & New Zealand, told Mediaweek that Australia has led the way in STEM with innovations such as Wi-Fi, spray-on skin, the polymer banknote, and the dual flush toilet.
He said the feed aims to make STEM content accessible to people everywhere so they can discover “high-quality, fact-checked educational videos.”
“We hope it helps to inspire the next generation of Australians to pursue science, technology, engineering, and maths subjects, which are vital for Australia’s future.”
Trusting the fact-checking process
While other platforms are stepping away from fact-checking programs and independent reviews, TikTok is leaning into ensuring the reliability of the content shared in the feed.
Bates explained the platform has partnerships with independent organisations Common Sense Networks and Poynter Institute as part of a triple-layer fact-checking process.
“First, TikTok identifies videos that are STEM-related, then Common Sense Networks assess the identified video to make sure it’s appropriate for the STEM feed, and finally, Poynter assesses the reliability of the information presented in these videos.
“If the content identified does not pass this triple-layer fact-checking process, it will not be eligible for the STEM feed.”
Laura Simmons SEA LIFE Sydney, RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers, Dr Karl TikTok creator, Dr Kirsten Banks TikTok creator, Walt Carroll TikTok creator, Dr Jodi Rowley Australian Museum.
‘We jumped at the chance to launch the dedicated feed’
There is a demand for STEM content on TikTok. Bates noted that based on other markets where the STEM feed is available, one in three young people visit the feed on a weekly basis, and content has grown on TikTok by 35%.
“We already have some amazing STEM creators in Australia on TikTok, so we jumped at the chance to launch the dedicated feed.”
Bates proudly highlighted that there are over 500 Australian STEM creators on the feed, and their videos have garnered over 830 million views on TikTok.
These local creators join the more than 7,000 creators globally who share content on everything from space and medicine to the science of bushfires.
Among the local creators are the NSW Rural Fire Service (@NSWRFS), the first emergency service to join the feed, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki (@drkarl), Gilmour Space Technologies, Dr Kirsten Banks (@AstroKirsten), and Walt Carroll (@oneminmicro).
‘If you have a question, there is bound to be an answer’
Bates called TikTok the “perfect place“ to bring together educational content in a fun and accessible format.
“What also makes it unique is the amazing variety of content from individual creators and respected organisations. If you have a question, there is bound to be an answer.“
Bates shared that he too learnt a fun fact while exploring the content on the channel from Walt Carroll (@oneminmicro). “He taught me that microscopic mites live on the rind of mimolette cheese to help develop its flavour… a good reminder not to accidentally eat the rind where the mites hang out!”
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Top image: RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers, Laura Simmons SEA LIFE Sydney, Simon Bates Head of Content TikTok AUNZ, Dr Karl TikTok creator, Dr Kirsten Banks TikTok creator, Dr Jodi Rowley Australian Museum, Walt Carroll TikTok creator.