This master’s thesis research, incorporating questionnaire surveys and analysis of travel short videos, investigates their growing influence on K12 education. Digital platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts have become unexpected educational tools, particularly in geography and cultural studies. According to educational technology research, short-form video content now accounts for 38% of informal learning among teenagers.
The Educational Potential of Travel Short Videos
Travel content creators are unintentionally becoming educators, with their videos serving three key purposes:
- Visual geography lessons that make locations memorable
- Cultural exposure through authentic local experiences
- Language learning via natural conversations and captions
Survey Methodology and Key Findings
The questionnaire survey distributed to 500 K12 students and parents revealed surprising patterns:
- 72% of students reported using travel videos for school projects
- 58% of parents considered video content when planning educational trips
- 34% of teachers incorporated such videos in lesson plans
As noted in distance learning studies, this trend represents a fundamental shift in knowledge acquisition.
Practical Applications for Educators
Teachers can leverage this trend through:
- Curated video playlists aligned with curriculum
- Student-created travel video projects
- Virtual field trips using 360-degree videos
The research concludes that travel short videos, when properly integrated, can significantly enhance spatial awareness and cultural competence. However, educators must provide guidance to develop critical thinking about online content.
