The Impact of Tiktokers on Educational Value

An Anthropological Study in Erbil

Abstract

This research is examined through the lens of cultural anthropology. In a rapidly growing digital landscape, TikTok has emerged as a dominant cultural force in recent years, having a significant impact on the lives of children and teens. What plays a key role in this platform is the “TikTokers” who have a significant impact on the values and beliefs of its audience.

To address the problem of this research, a cultural anthropological approach is used, monitoring participants, fieldwork, content analysis, and survey forms. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design targeting parents of students in the centre of Erbil, in this study, a convenience sampling technique is used. G*Power version 3.1.9 was used to calculate the study sample, and 492 completed survey forms were analyzed. The methodology facilitates an understanding of how primary students engage with TikToker content in their cultural context.

The findings highlight the complex cultural dynamics of TikTok, emphasizing the role of TikTokers in shaping educational value; Parents expressed concern that TikTok content contradicted the educational values they were teaching their children; many educators expressed strong opposition to their children aspiring to be TikTokers. This study provides insights for parents, shedding light on the challenges and impact of social media on children’s well-being and improving their cultural values. The results can inform discussions on creating responsible content and promoting educational value in digital spaces.