Pedagogical Benefits and Challenges of Integrating TikTok Into EFL Learning

The widespread use of social media, particularly among young people, has expanded its potential for educational opportunities and provided new ways to enhance learning. Nevertheless, the integration of TikTok into English learning still raises questions about its effectiveness and pedagogical implications. This quasi-experimental study investigates the benefits of this social network in enhancing creativity, engagement, digital literacy, and practical English application, while also exploring challenges such as linguistic accuracy, distractions, privacy concerns, and accessibility. The study sample consisted of 42 English as a foreign language pre-service teachers. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire, a rubric used to evaluate participants' TikTok videos created, and a focus group. The findings indicate that TikTok provides more benefits than challenges. Overall, the platform offers a viable learning environment that enhances learner motivation and facilitates interactive English learning, demonstrating that its limitations can be mitigated through thoughtful and well-planned strategies.