TikTok’s Use as a Fact-Checking Tool: A Descriptive Study on the

Political Stance of Selected Grade 12 HUMSS Students in

Laguna Senior High School for the S.Y. 2023-2024

A Research Paper
Presented To
Laguna Senior High
School Santa Cruz,
Laguna

In Partial Fulfillment
Of the Requirements for Practical Research II
(Humanities and Social Sciences)
Strand

VENICE ANGELA MESTIDIO

ABADIER SEBASTIAN ROSALES
ALMARIO ELLA MAE GONZAGA
CUSTODIO JHONRIC BACHO
DONATO
KRISTINE MAE BAUTISTA CORNEJA

FEBRUARY 2024
 Chapter 1

The Problem And Its Background

Introduction

In today’s world, the demand for ethyl alcohol continues to

rise due to its essential role in sanitation, medicine, and various

industries. As communities seek sustainable and cost-effective

alternatives, researchers explore organic waste materials for

ethanol production. One such promising source is the ripe

banana peel, an often-discarded household waste that contains

fermentable sugars. This study examines the potential of

producing ethyl alcohol from ripe banana peelings, shedding

light on an eco-friendly and practical approach to ethanol

production.

Bananas are among the most widely consumed fruits

worldwide, generating a significant amount of waste in the form

of peelings. These peelings, rich in starch and natural sugars,

present an opportunity for bioethanol production through

fermentation. This study investigates the feasibility of converting

banana peelings into a useful resource, thereby reducing waste

and promoting environmental sustainability.

 Fermentation is a natural biological process where

microorganisms, such as yeast, break down sugars to produce

alcohol. By employing this process, the study aims to extract

ethyl alcohol from banana peelings and assess its effectiveness

compared to commercially available ethanol. Understanding this

method allows students to develop a deeper appreciation for

chemistry and its real-world applications.

Furthermore, this study fosters scientific curiosity and

innovation by encouraging the exploration of everyday materials

for valuable applications. Ethyl alcohol is widely used as a

disinfectant, solvent, and even a potential biofuel. If banana

peelings can serve as a viable source of ethanol, this discovery

could present a cost-effective and environmentally friendly

alternative to commercial alcohol production.

Young learners engaged in this research will not only

enhance their scientific knowledge but also develop critical

thinking and problem-solving skills. The study highlights the

significance of finding innovative solutions to everyday

challenges, empowering students to contribute to sustainable

practices. By applying simple scientific methods, students can

explore resourceful ways to minimize waste and maximize utility.

 By examining the feasibility of ethyl alcohol production

from ripe banana peelings, this research promotes greater

awareness of waste management and renewable resources. The

results of this study could provide valuable insights into small-

scale ethanol production, inspiring communities to adopt more

sustainable practices. Ultimately, this research underscores the

importance of viewing organic waste as a resource rather than a

burden.

Through this study, primary students will not only gain

scientific insights but also cultivate a sense of environmental

responsibility. By understanding how simple biological processes

lead to meaningful discoveries, they can become advocates for

sustainability and innovation. This research reinforces the idea

that science is not confined to laboratories but can be applied to

everyday life, making learning more engaging and impactful.

Background of The Study

This section provides an overview of the researchers’

interest in the topic and the concepts relevant to the study. The

increasing global demand for ethyl alcohol as a disinfectant, fuel,

and chemical ingredients has driven researchers to seek

alternative sources of ethanol production. Many agricultural

wastes, including fruit peels, have been studied for their

potential ethanol yield. Bananas, being one of the most widely

consumed fruits, generate a considerable amount of waste in the

form of peelings, which contain essential compounds for

fermentation.

Previous studies have examined the potential of fruit

peeling as sources of ethanol, demonstrating that plant-based

waste materials can be effectively utilized for fermentation.

Research has shown that banana peelings are rich in starch and

natural sugars, making them a promising candidate for

bioethanol production. This study aims to build upon existing

research by exploring the specific ethanol yield of ripe banana

peelings and evaluating its potential as a sustainable alcohol

source. Furthermore, according to Anderson (2022), social media

has influenced consumer behavior and purchasing decisions,

making it an effective tool for promoting sustainable practices

such as the use of fruit peelings for bioethanol production. This

project aims to stimulate more widespread adoption of

environmentally friendly techniques in ethanol production by

utilizing social media channels to raise awareness about the

benefits of using banana peelings for fermentation.

 With increasing concerns over waste management and

environmental conservation, the utilization of biodegradable

materials for ethanol production presents a dual benefit:

reducing waste while creating a useful product. This study

contributes to the ongoing efforts in sustainability by examining

how banana peelings, which are often discarded, can be

transformed into a valuable resource.

The researchers seek to evaluate the efficiency and

effectiveness of employing banana peelings in ethanol

production versus standard methods, with the goal of promoting

a more sustainable strategy in the biofuel business. This study

has the potential to revolutionize ethanol production by

investigating novel ways to repurpose waste materials, resulting

in a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective approach.

Conceptual Framework

In this study, the researchers explore the process of

ethanol production from ripe banana peelings through

fermentation. The conceptual framework is based on the idea

that banana peelings contain fermentable sugars that can be

converted into ethanol through microbial activity.

 Input of the Collection of ripe banana peelings, yeast, and

fermentation setup. Process of Fermentation of banana peelings,

distillation, and ethanol extraction. Output is the Production of

ethyl alcohol from banana peelings and assessment of its

viability as an alternative ethanol source.

This framework highlights the transformation of waste

materials into a valuable resource, emphasizing sustainability

and scientific innovation. By understanding these concepts,

young learners can appreciate the importance of practical

research and environmental responsibility.

 Statement Of The Problem

This study aims to determine the potential of ripe banana

peelings as a source of ethyl alcohol.

It sought to answer the following questions:

1. Can ripe banana peelings produce ethyl alcohol through

fermentation?

2. What is the percentage of ethyl alcohol obtained from the

fermentation process?

3. How does the alcohol produced compare to commercially

available ethanol in terms of effectiveness?

4. What are the possible benefits of using banana peelings for

ethanol production in reducing waste and promoting

sustainability?

Hypothesis

Null Hypothesis (H₀): Ripe banana peelings do not produce

a significant amount of ethyl alcohol through fermentation and

are not a viable source of ethanol.

Alternative Hypothesis (Ha): Ripe banana peelings can

produce a significant amount of ethyl alcohol through

fermentation and serve as a viable source of ethanol.

Scope and Delimitation

This study focuses solely on the fermentation process of

ripe banana peelings to extract ethyl alcohol. The experiment is

conducted on a small scale, using simple laboratory procedures

suitable for a primary school setting. The study does not include

large-scale ethanol production or the commercial viability of the

product. The alcohol content will be measured using basic

testing methods available to students.

Significance of the Study

This study aims to contribute valuable insights into the

potential of banana peelings as an alternative source of ethyl

alcohol, promoting sustainability and innovation.

For students, this research fosters scientific curiosity and

environmental awareness, encouraging them to explore the

benefits of waste repurposing and hands-on experimentation.

For educators, this study provides an engaging and

practical example of fermentation and sustainability, enriching

science curricula with real-world applications.

For communities, utilizing banana peel waste for ethanol

production can promote waste reduction and encourage the use

of renewable resources in daily life.

For industries, this research highlights the possibility of

sustainable ethanol production, potentially inspiring further

studies on biofuel alternatives.

For future researchers, this study offers foundational

knowledge on ethanol extraction from organic waste, paving the

way for more advanced and large-scale studies in bioethanol

production.

By shedding light on the scientific and environmental

benefits of utilizing banana peelings for ethanol production, this

research seeks to inspire practical solutions for waste

management and renewable energy.

Definition of Terms

Descriptive definitions of pertinent terms related to this study were

as follows:

Alcohol – A chemical substance used for sanitation,

medical purposes, and industrial applications.

Banana Peelings – The outer skin of ripe bananas,

which contain carbohydrates and can undergo

fermentation.

Bioethanol – A renewable form of ethanol derived

from organic materials such as fruit waste.

Distillation – The process of purifying a liquid by

heating and cooling, used in ethanol extraction.

Ethanol – A type of alcohol used in fuel, sanitization,

and industrial purposes.

Fermentation – A metabolic process that converts

sugar into alcohol and carbon dioxide with the help of

yeast.

Sustainability – The practice of using resources in a

way that preserves them for future generations.

Waste-to-Resource Conversion – The process of

transforming waste materials into useful products.

Yeast – A microorganism used in fermentation to

convert sugars into alcohol.

 Chapter 2

Review of Related Literature and Studies

This chapter includes the review of various related literature

and studies that will progress the research. It includes 3 related

literature per independent variable and dependent variable. This

helps the researchers get to know their topic more by keeping

them educated on the previous research provided that is inclined

with their topic.

Related Literature

Tian, et al (2022), stated that under the hit of the

epidemic, an increasing number of young people exchange and

purchase goods by watching and resorting to mobile short video

advertisements. Therefore, it is of great significance to explore the

influence mechanism of mobile short video advertising on the

consumption behavior of young people.

Zhuang (2022), Short-form videos in social media are

growing in popularity and becoming a promising channel for

marketing. This study explores consumer engagement in brand

short-form videos by investigating the effect of five non-content

characteristics, i.e., screen mode, caption, title length, human voice,

and music.

Cahyono (2023) concluded that Tik-Tok is a social media

platform with a visible explosive boom in recognition over the last

few years from its revolutionary emphasis on short-shape films

throughout various topics.

 The entirety of the Review of Related Literature: Highly

Entertaining, revolves around the analysis of the captivating nature

of short advertisements or videos on platforms such as TikTok and

other social media platforms.

According to Sharabati (2022), studies showed that past time

can affect a person’s use of social media. This refers to stepping

further away from duties and burdens and using a form of

amusement/entertainment. This factor consists of initial factors:

escape, relaxation, and entertainment. Although key enjoyments for

all social media are an escape, relaxation, and entertainment, these

appear to be more conspicuous in TikTok. Students and teens look

at TikTok mainly as a type of pastime, as a practical hobby in their

hectic schedules.

Stated by Salasac, et al. (2022), TikTok has virtually become

ubiquitous. While all students are confined to their homes due to

the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic, and even in this post-

pandemic situation, most of them spend a great deal of time

looking and watching short-clip videos through their "for your page"

(FYP), picking up on the latest dance fads and even making their

own content. Additionally, for lessons, they may have missed or as

a quick review, students can use these clips as a resource.

Herrman (2019), TikTok is, however, a free-for-all. It’s easy to

make a video on TikTok, not just because of the tools it gives users,

but because of extensive reasons and prompts it provides for you.

You can join a dare-like challenge, or participate in a dance meme,

or make a joke. Or you can make fun of all of these things.
 The Review of Related Literatures (RRLs) relates to our study

in the factor “Trouble-free” as it was said that a TikTok app is an

escape, relaxation, and entertainment that appear to be more

conspicuous on TikTok. With that, it became a type of pastime and

hobby because of how easily it could be accessed by users. TikTok

is a free-for-all app with the latest trends and best features.

Students can use the clips from the app as a resource, which tends

to encounter different contents, like political issues. And with its

easy approach to come across different contents, TikTok app could

be used as a fact-checking tool that might affect users’ political

stance.

According to Wang (2022), TikTok or Douyin in China was a

persuasive tool to people. It is an example of persuasive technology

wherein the respondents of the researcher’s study had changed

their behavior and opinions easily due to the use of TikTok. The

people trust the TikTok’s information that is given from within the

content of the app.

Zamora-Medina, Et Al. (2023) stated that they observed in

their study that the political parties often used the Ethos, Pathos,

and Logos to persuade the people to root for their party or

themselves in elections. The use of Pathos and Logos were mostly

seen as the country of Poland which used Pathos more and had the

viewers feel positive emotions while in Spain, the political parties

used Logos by showing evidence that will affect their opponents’

reputation.
 According to Lu, Et Al. (2023), to persuade users on TikTok

that use the app as a fact-checking tool, content creators

use humor or clickbait

strategies. People were also persuaded because of the shares, re-

shares, likes, and comments that came from the TikTok video.

The related literature mentioned above are all related to the

independent variable “Extremely Popular and Persuasive” because

they give evidence based on their research that TikTok persuades

people when it comes to information. The “TikTokers” or users of

TikTok can easily change their minds as long as information from

TikTok tells them something new or old news. People engage and

believe these news because they appeal to their emotions,

therefore, they are then persuaded. The humor strategies help with

people putting trust in the app and the content it spews.

Anderson, J., & Brown, M. (2022) conducted an insightful

study into the concept of skepticism towards progressive policies.

Their research delves into how individuals expressing skepticism

play a pivotal role in shaping political perspectives, fostering critical

examination and informed discourse. This work provides valuable

insights into the dynamics of skepticism and its potential to

contribute to nuanced and well-informed political perspectives

within diverse communities.

Nguyen and Patel (2021) explore the contradictory

relationship between social media and skepticism in legal systems

in their study. The study looks at how social media platforms can

challenge and magnify established legal standards, leading to

conversations that feed public mistrust. The study clarifies the

intricate processes by which social media shapes people's

skepticism toward the legal systems that are in place.
 Smith and Davis (2022) delve into the impact of TikTok on

people doubting legal frameworks. The study investigates how

TikTok, as a prominent social media platform, serves as a catalyst

for the dissemination of skepticism towards established legal

structures. Analyzing user-generated content on TikTok, the

research explores how short-form videos contribute to shaping

public perceptions and fostering doubt about existing laws.

According to Bautista, Alonso-López, Giacomelli (2021), in a

context of hyperconnectivity, false information is easily made viral,

thus contributing to the development of disinformation. TikTok

App’s purpose is not only to ensure a message reaching new

audience segments, but also as an innovative process to attack the

phenomenon of disinformation, such as fake news and speculation

that is increasingly decentralized through digital channels.

Mendoza (2022), Online misinformation is a threat to

elections since it skews votes for candidates that field

disinformation and manipulate public opinion, thus eroding the very

foundation of democracy being ruled by the genuine interests of the

people. As a result, voters are not only exposed to false political

information but are even conditioned to be confident of their ability

to determine the truthfulness of fake news given its resounding

support from within their networks.

Mendoza (2022), TikTok's algorithm caters to users'

personal tastes and is designed to keep them immersed in the

platform for an indefinite amount of time. The popularity of TikTok

among Filipinos has made the platform susceptible to the spread of

disinformation and distortion of historical

facts. Apart from COVID-19 conspiracy theories, one of the top

disinformation themes on TikTok included the idea that Marcos

Sr. presided over the so-called "golden age" of the Philippines.

The Review of Related Literatures (RRLs) relates to our study

in the factor “Influenced by Inaccurate Information” as it was said

by the authors that TikTok app’s purpose is also to attack

phenomenon of disinformation such as fake news,that online

misinformation is a threat to election that manipulate public opinion

and spread disinformation and distortion of historical facts. With

that, it relates to our study of how TikTok caters to its users with

inaccurate information as they use it as a fact-checking tool

concerning political issues.

According to Verdú (2022), users of TikTok usually align with

trends using a hashtag. The trends also stem from creativity and

story-telling.

Cervi, Et Al. (2023) stated that people joined the trend for the

Palestinian’s playful activism on TikTok through the use of hashtags

and challenges on the app. The people aligned with the trend for

the Palestianians because of the constant use of hashtag and

challenges which makes it to the algorithm and people have

participated in the trend of starting a conversation about this

particular topic with the Palestinians.

According to Zheng, Et Al. (2021), there is a bandwagon effect

happening especially with teenagers. They want to go viral on

different social media like TikTok and so they tend to align

themselves with trends just because other people are doing it too.
 The trends on the app of TikTok are usually caused by

Hashtags or Challenges that are uploaded by influencers. These

influencers continue to do the trend which makes the other viewers

want to participate in the trend too just for the sake of “going viral.”

The likes and shares on the video of popular influencers encourage

the users to participate in the challenges and hashtags so they can

be popular as well. These are all related literature to the dependent

variable “Tendency to Align with Popular Trends” because it shows

that TikTokers are easily swept away by trends from influencers.

Related Studies

In the U.S. presidential election of 2020, according to

Querubin et al. (2023), TikTok, recognized for its lip-synching and

popular media remixes, transformed into a platform facilitating ludic

civic engagement, characterized by ambivalent critique and event

commentary. Specifically, TikTok users engaged in playful political

performances, expressing their sentiments about candidates

through dance or song. Additionally, they employed remixing as

ambivalent critique, juxtaposing news clips and music to provide

commentary on ongoing events.

Deng et al. (2022) conducted a study with the objective of

comprehending the responses of social media users to influencer-

endorsed wine short videos on Douyin, the leading platform. The

investigation employed the Message Interpretation Process (MIP)

framework to elucidate these responses and further sought to

discern segmentation distinctions

based on gender and generational cohorts, specifically focusing on

Generation Z and Generation Y.

Yuan et al. (2022) reached the conclusion that short video

advertising encompasses two primary strategies: Key Opinion

Leader (KOL) endorsement and in-feed advertising. Through the

application of an endogenous treatment model, the study

empirically investigates the effectiveness of these two strategies in

attracting product traffic for online retailers specifically within the

short video app Douyin (TikTok).

TikTok, renowned for its highly entertaining and engaging short-

form video content, has emerged as a dynamic platform for

advertisers seeking to promote products and various offerings to a

vast and diverse audience within the realm of social media users.

In the work of Kim, J., & Park, S. (2020), an exploration into

the trouble-free characteristic of TikTok reveals evolving

perceptions of the platform's role in shaping political discourse. The

study emphasizes how TikTok's user-friendly design has contributed

to its rapid rise, simultaneously drawing attention to its potential

exploitation for political purposes. The authors argue that the

trouble-free nature of TikTok, while enhancing user experience, has

unintended consequences, making it susceptible to misuse in the

realm of political communication. This research prompts a critical

examination of the platform's design and its implications for political

influence and control.

 Exploring the implications of TikTok's trouble-free

characteristic, Smith, R., & Kim, E. (2021) investigate the platform's

influence on political discourse. The study underscores TikTok's

simplistic design as a potential factor in shaping political narratives.

Smith and Kim's research brings attention to the unintended

consequences of the platform's user-friendly interface, prompting

discussions about its susceptibility to political manipulation. This

work contributes to a deeper understanding of TikTok's role in

political communication and raises awareness about the challenges

associated with its trouble-free design.

Addressing the trouble-free attribute of TikTok, a study

conducted by Zhao, M., & Liu, W. (2022) delves into the platform's

unintentional role in political messaging. The research emphasizes

how TikTok's seamless user experience has inadvertently

transformed it into a conduit for political influence. Zhao and Liu's

findings prompt a critical examination of the platform's design,

suggesting that its trouble-free nature may

Social media platforms have grown in scope, impacting user’s

opinions more quickly (Wang et al., 2021). Persuasive technology

aims to intentionally change a person’s attitude through influence

as said by Fogg (2002). TikTok app developed to integrate its

persuasive design features; applications are constantly improving

and used daily.

With the increase in internet use, social media channels have

become popular for political communication. Citizens have had

new opportunities for political participation and communication by

participating in interest groups,

interacting with political institutions and candidates, and

exchanging and discussing political information with other citizens

(Himelboim, Lariscy, Tinkham, & Sweetser, 2012).

It has been observed that concerns have been expressed

about the concepts of censorship, manipulation, propaganda, control,

and influence, which are the five elements of sharp power that are

used by politicians of America against the Chinese Communist Party.

It has been found that the TikTok platform is perceived as a

propaganda device, a psychological warfare weapon, and not a public

diplomacy tool or soft power element.

The Review of Related Studies relates to our study in this

factor as it was said that a TikTok app is an escape, relaxation, and

entertainment that appear to be more conspicuous on TikTok. With

that, it became a type of pastime and hobby because of how easily

it could be accessed by users.

TikTok is a free-for-all app with the latest trends and best features.

Students can use the clips from the app as a resource, which tends

to encounter different contents, like political issues. And with its

easy approach to come across different contents, TikTok app could

be used as a fact-checking tool that might affect users’ political

stance.

Turner and Rodriguez (2022) conducted a comprehensive

analysis, revealing how users utilize TikTok as a space to express

dissenting views on laws. The short-form video format of TikTok

provides a unique avenue for users to engage in critical discussions,

fostering skepticism towards existing legal structures.
 Lopez and Wang (2023) delved into the complex terrain of

skepticism towards policies in the realm of social media,

highlighting a growing trend where doubts and reservations about

various policies find expression in less conventional platforms.

The demand for transparent evidence and well-substantiated

citations on these platforms markedly differs from the conventional

standards set by more established sources, creating a unique

ecosystem of skepticism. YouTube and TikTok, aligning themselves

with Facebook, have emerged as prominent spaces where

skepticism towards policies takes center stage, as elucidated by the

investigative acumen of the policy-analysis consortium, PolicyProbe.

Sharma and Wu (2023) delved into the intricate landscape of

skepticism towards policies in social media, shedding light on the

emergence of skepticism in unconventional platforms. Their

collaborative study with the PolicyAnalysis consortium showcased

how YouTube and TikTok, alongside Facebook, have become

significant arenas for the expression of skepticism towards policies.

The research provided insights into the diverse nature of policy-

related discussions in visually-driven environments, emphasizing

the need for nuanced approaches to engage and address

skepticism.

In the Philippines, TikTok videos amplified sugarcoated myths

about the country's former dictator and helped his son prevail in the

country's presidential race according to Hsu., Tiffany (2022). TikTok

is shaping up to be a primary incubator of baseless and misleading

information, in many ways as problematic as Facebook and

Twitter, say researchers who track online

falsehoods. The same qualities that allow TikTok to fuel viral dance

fads - the platform's enormous reach, the short length of its videos,

its powerful but poorly understood recommendation algorithm - can

also make inaccurate claims difficult to contain.

Cabato and Mahtani (2022) stated that the disinformation has

pushed into other fronts, where unlike Wikipedia, citations and proof

are not required. YouTube and TikTok follow Facebook as the

leading sources of online disinformation, according to fact-checking

collective Tsek.ph. As social media giants like Facebook and Twitter

play cat-and-mouse with coordinated keyboard warriors who spread

disinformation, prop up political clients or smear their opponents,

historical whitewashing is finding new homes. Pro-Marcos

propaganda is now proliferating on platforms like TikTok and

YouTube that appeal primarily to Gen Z, ushering in a new era of

fun, hip, glossily edited content that is harder to regulate online.

According to Tambini, Damian (2018), voters for whom social

media is the dominant source of news and information could be

inundated with a constant stream of skewed, politically interested

messaging that would drown out opposing views; a new form of

targeted propaganda. A wide range of concerns were raised about

social media campaigning by a wider range of public commentators.

The influence of deliberately targeted “fake news” messages, and

the potential for foreign intervention in domestic campaigns.

 According to Yang (2020), influencers on the TikTok app

hold a significant power in affecting trends. Once a trend is set by a

popular influencer on TikTok, there is a tendency for lots of people

to follow it.

Bhadari, Et Al. (2022) stated that due to the Algorithm in

Tiktok, it is easy to come across trends. These algorithms hold

power over the users as they influence them in taking part in

trends.

According to Rezek (2022), TikTok’s trends can easily

influence Generation Z, especially the younger ones, because they

have a lot of trust in the app. Trends keep starting because of

influencers who are opinion leaders on the app.

The related studies mentioned are related to the dependent

variable “Tendency to Align with Popular Trends” for it shows that

due to the algorithm in TikTok that is personalized, influencers

continue to dominate the trends which makes users want to

participate as well. The TikTokers have trust in the app and so

whatever the challenge or hashtag is, as long as the influencer they

follow participated in it, they are swept away by the trend. They

will follow what the app is pushing on their “For You Page” because

of the Algorithm.
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 Chapter 3

Research Methodology

Research Design

The researchers used a quantitative sampling approach for

this descriptive study investigating the use of the TikTok app as a

fact-checking tool, and how it affects the political stance of selected

Grade 12-HUMSS students at Laguna Senior High School.

Specifically, this study utilized a descriptive research methodology,

using questionnaires with the intent of generalizing from a sample

to a population.

The study aims to explore the effect of the TikTok app in the

political stance of the participants by using it as a tool to obtain

factual information. By utilizing the descriptive design of this study,

researchers can investigate the impact of this intervention on

students’ political viewpoints while also taking into account the

preferences and choices of specific students with regards to political

subject matter.

Respondents of The Study

The researchers opted for quota sampling as a

methodological approach to select participants systematically for a

study focusing on Grade 12-HUMSS students at Laguna Senior High

School. The study will focus on the eleven students from all twelve

sections. From each of these sections, eleven students, specifically

officers in the classroom that are classified as active members in

the Society of Humanities and Social Sciences Advocates

(SHSSA), will be chosen for a total of one hundrer thirty two

participants in the primary survey.

The survey aims to explore participants' political engagement,

interests, and TikTok usage for information-seeking purposes. After

the initial survey, a detailed evaluation process will unfold. After

analyzing the answers from the survey to find the thirty

respondents, three students will be chosen from the 6 sections of

the initial 12 while the other half will choose only 2 students, for a

total of 30 students.

Subsequently, the selected participants will undergo a survey,

delving into the nuanced impact of TikTok as a fact-checking tool on

their political stances. This methodical approach ensures a focused

and systematic exploration within the stipulated parameters. The

researcher chose Laguna Senior High School as the study location

due to its efficiency and convenience for them.

Research Procedure

The researchers shall begin the study by finding the

respondents using quota sampling. The population is the grade 12

Humss students in Laguna Senior High School. There are two (2)

surveys that need to be taken. The first survey used to find the

respondents will be presented after the adviser of each section has

agreed to let their students take the survey by signing a consent

letter. After gathering the results from the first survey, the

researchers will analyze it to look for the 30 respondents that are a

perfect fit to the study. The researchers’ quota would be politically

inclined, use Tik Tok frequently,
and use social media for news or information. These respondents

will be given a consent letter that will need their signature to ensure

that they are agreeing to the continuation of the survey for the

research. Once all of the respondents have given back their survey,

the researchers will analyze the results and come to a conclusion

about the topic.

Research Instrument

In this study, which will examine the TikTok usage and

political tendencies of Grade 12 HUMSS students at Laguna Senior

High School during the academic year 2023–2024, a questionnaire

will serve as the primary research instrument. The survey is divided

into two primary portions. Identifying potential respondents is the

primary objective of the first section. The frequency with which

students in Grade 12 engage with TikTok and the extent to which

they rely on social media platforms for news and information will be

questioned. This initial survey will be distributed to all sections, and

participation will be contingent upon the consent of the section

advisers.

Upon obtaining consent, the researchers will analyze the first

survey’s results to identify 30 respondents that align with specific

criteria: a propensity for political inclination, frequent TikTok usage,

and reliance on social media for news. These selected students will

be requested to participate in the second survey, which delves

deeper into their TikTok usage patterns and political perspectives.

The second survey will employ a Likert-type scale ranging

from “1 – Disagree” to “5– Strongly Agree.” Respondents will

be asked to rate
statements related to their use of TikTok for fact-checking and

staying informed about current events. Additionally, questions

pertaining to their political inclinations and engagement in political

discussions on TikTok will be included. Participation in the second

survey will be voluntary, and respondents will be required to sign a

consent letter, ensuring that they understand the study's objectives

and that their responses will remain confidential. Once all responses

are collected, the researchers will conduct a thorough analysis to

draw conclusions regarding the relationship between TikTok usage,

political inclinations, and information-seeking behaviors among the

targeted Grade 12 HUMSS students at Laguna Senior High School.

The responses to each question in the given dimensions were

scaled as follows:

Scale Numerical Range Remarks

5 4.21- 5.00 Strongly Agree

4 3.41- 4.20 Agree

3 2.61- 3.40 Neutral

2 1.81- 2.60 Disagree

1 1.00- 1.80 Strongly Disagree

Appendix A
FIRST SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE FOR ALL OFFICERS OF GRADE 12

HUMSS STUDENTS

1. I use TikTok daily 5 - Strongly

agree 4 - Agree
3 - Neutral
2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

2. I don’t use TikTok 5 - Strongly

agree 4 - Agree
3 - Neutral
2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

3. I use TikTok to get 5 - Strongly agree

information 4 - Agree
3 - Neutral
2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

4. I use TikTok to 5 - Strongly agree

watch
news 4 - Agree
3 - Neutral
2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

5. I use TikTok to 5 - Strongly agree

Fact-check 4 - Agree
information about 3 - Neutral
news 2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

6. I am a politically 5 - Strongly
aligned person. agree 4 - Agree
(Updated with 3 - Neutral
current affairs in 2 - Disagree
the political 1 - Strongly Disagree
world)

Appendix B
 CONSENT LETTER SENT TO ADVISERS OF GRADE 12 HUMSS

SECTIONS

Republic of the Philippines

Department of Education

REGION IV-A CALABARZON

SCHOOLS DIVISION OFFICE OF LAGUNA

LAGUNA SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

SANTA CRUZ, LAGUNA

Greetings Sir/Ma’am,

Upon the completion of the quantitative analysis research,

HUMSS 12 students from Dewey of Laguna Senior High School.

Namely: Venice Angela Abadier, Sebastian Almario, Ella Mae

Custodio, Jhonric Donato, and Kristine Mae Corneja, are requesting

authorization to initiate a survey for research entitled “TikTok’s Use

as a Fact-Checking Tool: A Descriptive Study on the Political Stance

of Selected Grade 12 HUMSS Students in Laguna Senior High School

for the School Year 2023-2024”

A survey will be given to the 11 officers (President, Vice-

President, Secretary, Treasurer, Auditor, P.I.O, DRRM Officer 1&2,

Business Manager, Muse, and Escort) and the data in a protected

document will subsequently be analyzed.

In accordance with the Data Privacy Act of 2012 and its

Implementing Rules and Regulations, your personal

information will be gathered,

processed, and stored for the enhancement and for the

purpose(s) of the research study (in accordance with research

ethics rules).

For the purpose of this confidentiality agreement, the term

“personally identifiable student records” includes but is not limited

to: (a) student’s name;

(b) the student’s school; (c) the student’s section; and (d) other

details that will help with identification.

Once you have given the approval, it means that you understand that:

● I understand that the contents of the consent forms,

questionnaire and survey forms can only be discussed with

the researcher.

● I understand that I give permission for the researchers

to use the information I provide and collect it for their

study.

Sincerely Yours,

The Researchers:

Almario, Sebastian R. Custodio, Ella Mae G. Abadier, Venice Angela M.

Donato, Jhonric B. Corneja, Kristine Mae B.

MA’AM LOVELY SAN JUAN

Research Adviser
Signed and agreed by:

Adviser of Section:

, President

, Vice - President

, Secretary

, Treasurer

, Auditor

, P.I.O

Business Manager

DRRM Officer 1

DRRM Officer 2

Muse

Escort

APPENDIX C

2ND SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE FOR THE SELECTED 30 GRADE 12

HUMSS STUDENTS

Read the following statements and rate how much you would agree to them

using the likert scale— 5 - Strongly Agree, 4 - Agree, 3 - Neutral, 2 -

Disagree, 1 - Strongly Disagree.

HIGHLY ENTERTAINING:
 7. The content on 5 - Strongly agree
TikTok
is highly enjoyable. 4 - Agree
3 - Neutral
2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

8. I find TikTok content 5 - Strongly agree

to
be entertaining and 4 - Agree
engaging. 3 - Neutral
2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

9. The entertainment 5 - Strongly agree

factor of TikTok 4 - Agree
content
influences my overall 3 - Neutral
engagement with the 2 - Disagree
platform. 1 - Strongly Disagree

TROUBLE FREE:

10. Using TikTok 5 - Strongly agree

requires
minimal technical 4 - Agree
effort.
3 - Neutral
2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

11. The TikTok interface 5 - Strongly agree

is
designed to be 4 - Agree
user-friendly and 3 - Neutral
hassle-free. 2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

12. I find the mechanics of 5 - Strongly agree

using TikTok simple 4 - Agree
and understand that it 3 - Neutral
doesn’t trouble me. 2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

EXTREMELY POPULAR AND PERSUASIVE

 13. TikTok has a 5 - Strongly agree
considerable impact 4 - Agree
on
my opinions and 3 - Neutral
preferences. 2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

14. To what extent do 5 - Strongly agree

you
agree with the idea 4 - Agree
that
TikTok's persuasive 3 - Neutral
content affects your 2 - Disagree
preferences and 1 - Strongly Disagree
choices?

15. "TikTok's extreme 5 - Strongly agree

popularity 4 - Agree
significantly
influences my social 3 - Neutral
media habits. 2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

SKEPTICISM TOWARDS PROGRESSIVE POLICIES

16. TikTok has a significant 5 - Strongly agree

impact on shaping my 4 - Agree
perceptions of 3 - Neutral
progressive policies. 2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

17. I critically examine 5 - Strongly agree

and
question policies 4 - Agree
advocating social 3 - Neutral
change on TikTok. 2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

18. I am influenced by 5 - Strongly agree

random information 4 - Agree
regarding 3 - Neutral
progressive
policies on TikTok. 2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree
INFLUENCED BY INACCURATE INFORMATION

19. I can recognize 5 - Strongly agree

inaccurate 4 - Agree
information
related to societal 3 - Neutral
issues on TikTok. 2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

20. I actively verify 5 - Strongly agree

information on TikTok 4 - Agree
before forming 3 - Neutral
opinions
on certain issues 2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

21. Inaccurate information 5 - Strongly agree

encountered on TikTok 4 - Agree
has influenced my 3 - Neutral
political views. 2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

TENDENCY TO ALIGN WITH POPULAR TRENDS

22. TikTok users are 5 - Strongly agree

more
likely to gain visibility 4 - Agree
if
their content aligns 3 - Neutral
with
popular trends 2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

23. I feel compelled to align 5 - Strongly agree

my TikTok content with 4 - Agree
popular trends to 3 - Neutral
gain
visibility." 2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree

24. I often feel the need to 5 - Strongly agree

align my content with 4 - Agree
what is currently 3 - Neutral
popular on TikTok 2 - Disagree
1 - Strongly Disagree
 APPENDIX D
CONSENT LETTER GIVEN TO SELECTED GRADE 12 HUMSS
STUDENTS AS RESPONDENTS

Republic of the Philippines

Department of Education

REGION IV-A CALABARZON

SCHOOLS DIVISION OFFICE OF LAGUNA

LAGUNA SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

 SANTA CRUZ, LAGUNA

Greetings Sir/Ma’am,

Upon the completion of the quantitative analysis research,

HUMSS 12 students from Dewey of Laguna Senior High School.

Namely: Venice Angela Abadier, Sebastian Almario, Ella Mae

Custodio, Jhonric Donato, and Kristine Mae Corneja, are requesting

authorization to initiate a second survey for research entitled

“TikTok’s Use as a Fact-Checking Tool: A Descriptive Study on the

Political Stance of Selected Grade 12 HUMSS Students in Laguna

Senior High School for the School Year 2023-2024”

A survey will be given to the respondents and the data in a

protected document will subsequently be analyzed. There are a

total of 24 survey questions.

In accordance with the Data Privacy Act of 2012 and its

Implementing Rules and Regulations, your personal information will

be gathered, processed, and stored for the enhancement and for

the purpose(s) of the research study (in accordance with research

ethics rules).

For the purpose of this confidentiality agreement, the term

“personally identifiable student records” includes but is not limited

to: (a) student’s name;

(b) the student’s school; (c) the student’s section; and (d) other

details that will help with identification.

Once you have given the approval, it means that you understand that:

● I understand that all the material I will be asked to

record and/or transcribe is confidential.
 ● I understand that the contents of the consent forms,

interview tapes, sound files or interview notes can only be

discussed with the researcher.

● I understand that I give permission for the researchers

to use the information I provide and collect it for their

study.

Sincerely Yours, The

Researchers:

Almario, Sebastian R. Custodio, Ella Mae G. Abadier, Venice Angela M.

Donato, Jhonric B. Corneja, Kristine Mae B.

Noted by:

MA’AM LOVELY SAN JUAN

Research Adviser

Signed and agreed by:

(Respondent)