Home⇛Student Journal of Technology and Educational Research⇛vol. 2 no. 2 (2025)

Effectiveness of Semantic-Focused TikTok Videos as a Learning Resource and Vocabulary Proficiency of Freshman Education Students

Hazelle Maigne V. Adriano | King Jhames S. Manganaan | Tasminah A. Said | Crishiela R. Santos | Jennelyn L. Raymundo

Discipline: Education

 

Abstract:

This study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of semantic-focused TikTok videos as a learning resource in improving the vocabulary proficiency of first-year Education students enrolled in the Purposive Communication course at Isabela State University–Echague during the Academic Year 2025–2026. A quasi-experimental research design employing a pre-test–post-test approach was used to assess students’ vocabulary proficiency before and after exposure to the intervention. The study focused on four vocabulary domains: word recognition, word usage, meaning inference, and contextual understanding. The findings revealed that the students’ vocabulary proficiency prior to the intervention was generally at the “Passed” to “Below Fair” level, while their post-test performance significantly improved to the “Good” to “Satisfactory” level across all domains. Notably, word recognition and word usage showed the highest level of improvement. Statistical analysis further showed no significant differences in the level of vocabulary improvement when the respondents were grouped according to sex and academic program. Moreover, the implementation of semantic-focused TikTok videos resulted in a statistically significant difference between the pre-test and post-test scores, indicating the effectiveness of the intervention. A significant positive relationship was also found between the students’ pre-test and post-test vocabulary proficiency scores. These results suggest that semantic-focused TikTok videos have strong potential as an engaging and effective supplementary learning resource for vocabulary enhancement in higher education. The study underscores the importance of integrating technology-based instructional materials that align with students’ learning preferences to enhance vocabulary proficiency. Recommendations were provided for teachers, students, school administrators, curriculum planners, and future researchers to maximize the pedagogical benefits of TikTok while addressing instructional and contextual challenges.



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