The Impact of TikTok on News Consumption in South Africa

Social media, notably TikTok, is reshaping news consumption in South Africa, particularly among youth. Austin Macaskill, a local TikTok news creator, highlights how trending topics drive his content selection and discusses the challenges of misinformation. He emphasizes the platform’s influence on public opinion, the need for ethical reporting, and encourages digital creators to enjoy the process to maintain engagement.

Social media platforms, especially TikTok, are revolutionizing how news is consumed globally, and this trend is evident in South Africa as well. Saads Abrahams from Media Update recently interviewed Austin Macaskill, a prominent local news creator on TikTok, to delve into the implications of this shift. While traditional media still holds significance, younger audiences prefer to consume news where they are most active—on social media platforms.

A major concern surrounding the rise of social media in news consumption is the ease with which misinformation can spread, given the lack of regulation. This situation raises questions about the changes in news consumption habits and the management of information on platforms like TikTok. As an active participant in this landscape, Austin Macaskill offers invaluable insights into this emerging trend.

When selecting news stories for his TikTok audience, Macaskill prioritizes trending topics and discussions, focusing on matters gaining traction online. He also chooses issues that pique his personal interest, acknowledging the necessity of engaging content to resonate with his viewers.

Reporting on a rapid platform like TikTok presents unique challenges, such as unaccountable comments and the prevalence of misinformation. Macaskill notes the importance of careful reporting to navigate biases and ensure factual accuracy.

According to Macaskill, TikTok significantly alters news consumption for South Africans, particularly among the youth. He observes a preference for short-form video content over traditional written articles, attributing this shift to the public’s declining trust in legacy media due to the perceived lack of objective reporting.

TikTok plays a substantial role in shaping public opinion on current affairs, as users may adopt prevailing sentiments shared by popular creators. This influence is particularly notable when creators command significant trust from their audience, often leading to alignment with their views.

Handling misinformation involves consulting diverse sources and carefully wording content. Macaskill emphasizes the importance of utilizing phrases that reflect uncertainty, such as “reportedly,” to avoid asserting unverified facts.

Ethically, Macaskill strives to maintain objectivity in his reporting, refraining from targeting individuals or expressing personal opinions. He believes that the core purpose of news is to provide unbiased information to the audience.

Macaskill contends that TikTok has indeed supplanted traditional news sources for younger demographics, with audiences increasingly relying on platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and TikTok for information.

While backlash is a common challenge, Macaskill has not had to remove any videos, as he firmly stands by his content. He encourages viewers to verify facts independently and assures that he welcomes constructive engagement, despite occasional negative feedback.

To aspiring digital news creators, Macaskill advises finding joy in the process, which enhances consistency and passion in their work. Those interested in learning more about online news practices are encouraged to subscribe to updates and explore additional resources.

In conclusion, Austin Macaskill’s insights reflect a significant transformation in news consumption driven by social media platforms such as TikTok. This change is particularly salient among younger demographics, who favor engaging formats over traditional media. While challenges such as misinformation and public backlash persist, creators like Macaskill emphasize ethical reporting and the importance of consulting multiple sources. The future of news appears increasingly intertwined with digital platforms, ushering in a new era of information dissemination.

Original Source: www.mediaupdate.co.za