29 February 2024

TikTok: The Evolving Role of Social Media in Museum Education

By Emma June Huebner

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the landscape of museum education has undergone a profound transformation, with social media emerging as a dynamic educational tool. This seminar will delve into the intricate tapestry of museum education, with a specific emphasis on TikTok, where the convergence of technology and pedagogy has empowered educators and captivated a new generation of learners. Amid the global challenges, museum educators have embraced innovation, witnessing an upsurge in the integration of social media platforms for educational pursuits. This seminar embarks on a captivating journey through a descriptive qualitative study that unveils the multifaceted dimensions of museum education in the realm of social media. Guided by an adapted museum education theoretical model (Allard & Boucher, 1998; Meunier, 2011) and connectivism theories posited by Siemens (2004), the seminar explores these emerging practices. Central to the study is an exploration of the strategies, experiences, and goals of museum educators who have harnessed the potential of social media as a transformative educational medium. Moreover, the seminar intricately examines the perceptions, interactions, and responses of the 18 to 24-year-old youth demographic to the innovative educational initiatives pioneered by museums through social media.

Delve into the seminar to gain invaluable insights into practical strategies for museums aspiring to leverage the educational possibilities offered by TikTok. As the digital sphere facilitates connections, the seminar dissects the complexities inherent in fostering substantial educator-visitor relationships via the platform. Additionally, it navigates the delicate balance between high and low cultural practices within the evolving digital museum landscape.