EDUFLUENCER AS A ROLE MODEL TO STUDENTS

This study aims to analyze the influence of Edufluencer as a role model for students. Edufluencers are educational influencers who promote specific educational products, philosophies or practices according to their respective expertise through the social media space. Edufluencer shares creative digital teaching methods online and spreads their expertise to all students and teachers in the virtual world. Edufluencer plays a drastic role and influences students who follow Edufluencer accounts online. The influence of Edufluencer is not only limited to knowledge but also influences the attitude and behavior of their followers. Students who follow their favorite Edufluencers consider Edufluencers as a source of inspiration and emulate the Edufluencer lifestyle in various aspects. This study uses a qualitative approach which is in-depth interview. A total of four Edufluencers who meet the study criteria, namely the Nano-Edufluencer category, were selected through purposive sampling. The research data was analyzed using a thematic approach. The results of the study found that there are four main themes of Edufluencer using various aspects in influencing followers to apply pure values, namely content authenticity, language aspects, appearance aspects and lifestyle aspects through their broadcasts. The implications of this study show that Edufluencers not only influence knowledge, but other aspects are also influenced by their persuasive content. In conclusion, Edufluencer is able to be a role model in producing a responsible and quality generation, especially the young generation.