The role of TikTok in user well-being and education: a study on psychological effects on learning during COVID-19

The pandemic caused by COVID-19 has sped up the use of digital platforms in educational settings, with TikTok playing a vital role in promoting learning and engagement. This study investigates the role of TikTok in shaping users’ psychological well-being and educational outcomes during this period of disruption. Data collection involved a cross-sectional approach, surveying 1,219 university students in China via an online questionnaire. The study employed convenience sampling and analyzed responses with SPSS software, focusing on constructs such as TikTok engagement, psychological well-being, educational content, and various educational outcomes. Measurement properties of the constructs were robust, with good reliability and validity confirmed through factor loadings, internal consistency measures, and discriminant validity assessments. Common method bias was not a major concern, and the structural model demonstrated strong explanatory and predictive capabilities. The findings underscore TikTok’s dual role as both an educational tool and a factor influencing mental health, highlighting the platform’s potential benefits and challenges in a digital learning environment. This study provides valuable insights for educators and policymakers on integrating social media platforms into educational practices while addressing their impact on student well-being.