The Development of STEAM Workshop with PET Bottles Upcycling and Computer-Aided Design

Many PET bottles were used every day. Although being designed to be single use, the durability of these plastic bottles enables possibilities for other purposes. However, many of these still-usable used bottles were being transferred into rubbish bins and landfills. Not only does it waste the potential, but these plastic bottles also pollute the environment. Before taking 450 years to decompose, these bottles can be upcycled for better use. Considering the high accessibility, possibilities in functions and creative expressions, PET bottles can be excellent teaching material for STEAM education. This article provides a guideline for teachers on a STEAM education curriculum in upcycling plastic bottles. By studying the bottles and the plastics material, observing, and identifying their design problem and utilizing CAD software and 3D printers to create their prototype, students may master design thinking, problem-solving skills, and 3D modelling skills. With a workshop being conducted, successful attempts in student upcycling projects can be seen.