TenEighty caught up with members of The StudyTube Project to discuss the formation of the channel and the reaction it has received thus far.
Numerous members of the UK StudyTube community have banded together to help educate viewers during a time that sees schools being closed and education moving to an online format. They’re doing so via a new channel called The StudyTube Project, which is dedicated to offering educational content that’s both free and easily accessible.
“The second we found out UK schools were closing due to COVID-19, we jumped to our big group chat to discuss it,” Jade Bowler says regarding how the channel came to be. “We received so many messages from students expressing fear, anxiety and stress around school closures and exam cancellations. As a group of people with influence in the study space, we knew we wanted to help! Harnessing the power of community seemed the most natural thing. To combat isolation, we would bring together likeminded students to a dedicated channel, share our academic interests and hopefully teach people something new!”
Launching on 19 March, the channel sees many well-known StudyTubers and EduTubers sharing their knowledge and pooling their resources to ensure everyone who wants to get an education is still able to do so, despite the current climate.
There’s a variety of content available, depending on one’s interests, from academic videos to those covering more casual topics. Some examples include ways to increase one’s productivity, tips on how to get an internship, baking advice and an introduction to 17th century Dutch art.
Those involved in the project include Ali Abdaal, Ehis Ilozobhie, Eve Bennett, Eve Cornwell, Jack Edwards, Luke Birch, Lydia Violeta, Laura Medley, PaigeY, Rosie Crawford, Ibrahim Mohammad, Maninder Sachdeva, Ruby Granger, Tolu Duckworth, Viola Helen, Holly Gabrielle, Varaidzo Kativhu and Jade Bowler.
“I wanted to get involved because making the videos would help keep me busy and motivated in the same way that the viewers would feel through watching them,” Tolu explains. “Plus, as a relatively new YouTuber, I was excited to be able to collaborate with other StudyTubers.”
With 18 creators working on one channel, it might be assumed that things could get hectic. However, for many of those involved, the idea of working with likeminded creators was actually the reason they decided to join.
“I am so proud to be a part of the StudyTube community anyway, and I instantly saw the value this would have,” Jade says. “A feeling of togetherness is one of the best things about online communities.”
Since the channel’s launch, it’s amassed over 32,000 subscribers, with around 24,000 people following its associated Instagram page. In order to help those working on the frontlines during the coronavirus pandemic, the group has decided that any ad revenue will be donated to charities offering support for said workers.
Overall, those involved in the project have said that reaction has been positive.
“It’s been the type of reaction that just validates why we’re doing this,” shares Luke. “Everyone seems so thankful and appreciative of what we’re doing. Even if we were able to make a positive impact in just one person’s life during the pandemic, it’ll all have been worth it.”
“The reaction has been overwhelmingly positive,” Ali adds. “Students from around the world seem to enjoy The StudyTube Project content, and the diversity of subjects and creators (we hope) helps everyone feel included.”
The creation of the project, as well as the reaction to it, smbolises what many within the StudyTube community love best about the genre: inclusivity and a drive to learn.
“It’s just so wholesome,” Ali shares. “These students (and graduates) making inspiring and educational videos, completely for free, just to help others. (And because it’s fun.)”
Luke adds that he’s found a sense of community. “I finally feel like I am at home with these people. All throughout my educational journey, I struggled to find people that I really clicked with. For years, I couldn’t find anyone around me who shared the same love for education that I do. The StudyTube creators are so incredible. They each inspire me daily.
“The entire community is based on uplifting others and it’s beautiful to see,” he continues. “I’m honoured to be a part of such a diligent, passionate and kind online community.”
Those wishing to learn more about The StudyTube Project can do so via its official YouTube channel.
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