TikTok's Impact on teacher motivation

Junior Kapofi
  • 1 Month Ago - 2024-04-11 00:00:00
Joseph Panduleni, a teacher at Kaupumhote Combined School, has discovered an unconventional wellspring of motivation through the popular social media platform TikTok. Amidst the trials and tribulations of the classroom, Panduleni finds solace and inspiration in the supportive community he has found online.
Panduleni began teaching in 2022 in the Kunene Region at Ruiter Primary School in Ohandungu village. Initially stepping into the role of a relief teacher, he later transitioned to Kaupumhote Combined School in the Ohangwena Region, where he now imparts his wisdom in English and arts to the attentive minds of grades five and six.
While teaching was not always Panduleni's first choice, he has developed a profound affection for the profession. The most arduous aspect, he contends, lies in managing disrespectful learners and parents, a challenge in certain regions of the country. Despite these hurdles, Panduleni is propelled forward by his unwavering fondness for children and his fervent desire to effect positive change within the educational landscape.

Valued feedback
During his free time, Panduleni finds himself drawn to the realm of social media, with TikTok holding a special allure. It is here that he discovers a wellspring of motivation through the encouraging comments and feedback he receives from viewers. Joseph firmly believes that if ten individuals commend your teaching prowess on TikTok, there must be an element of truth to their praise, as numbers, he asserts, do not deceive.
Reflecting on his personal journey, Panduleni considers the attainment of his honour's degree to be a crowning achievement. He is a firm proponent of the notion that, as a teacher, one can also realise their dreams, a sentiment he is eager to impart to aspiring educators.
The story of Panduleni serves as a reminder of the unexpected sources from which motivation can spring. His narrative underscores the transformative power of social media in fostering positivity and inspiration, even amidst the most trying of circumstances.