You probably already use TikTok as your hub for all your pop culture analysis, astrology readings, and genius recipe ideas. With new STEM sources, you can now use the app to learn more. TikTok features focus on content from all areas of science, technology, engineering, and math, so whether you're a professional in the field or just want to learn more about these topics, here's what you need to know about TikTok's STEM feed sound.
If you're looking for advice or coding tips on how to run a smooth home experiment, STEM Source is where you want to be. TikTok announced the new update on March 14 (aka Pi Day), which is a fitting launch for an educational feature. According to a press release, the STEM feed is designed to provide users with the option to browse "a variety of inspiring, entertaining and enriching videos." It's unclear how the content shown in the feed is selected, but it's likely pulled from the large number of TikToks with STEM-related hashtags such as #STEM, #engineer, #chemistry and #tech. To ensure the feed isn't filled with misinformation, TikTok uses the help of Common Sense Networks and Poynter to evaluate the effectiveness of each video. According to the press release, if the content does not pass the requirements, it is not eligible for the STEM feed.
This feed joins FYP and the following feed options, so you no longer have to worry about your STEM content getting mixed in with your Get Ready With Me and Day In The Life videos. So how exactly do you access STEM sources? Unfortunately, not everyone can use it yet. In fact, according to the press release, TikTok is "still in the early stages" of providing STEM content to users.
The announcement also said that the feature would be rolling out to US users starting in late March, but as of April 12, many people were still unable to access the feed even after updating the app.
According to @tarantech of TikTok, when the feature finally rolls out, you'll find the STEM feed at the top of the homepage, next to the "Follow" and "For You" options, and he will already have access to the feed. The creator notes that most of the videos in the feed are from 2021, making the STEM feed less updated than FYP. But maybe once the rollout process is complete, users will feel more compelled to use more STEM-related videos and fill their feeds with more content.
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While it's unclear when (or if) the STEM feed will be available globally, your best bet is to keep checking and updating the app until you see the STEM option at the top of the home page.
