STEAM education is an interdisciplinary teaching approach that integrates the arts into the traditional STEM subjects: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
It emphasizes hands-on, experiential learning rather than traditional theory-based education. The STEAM concept was first introduced by the Rhode Island School of Design (USA) and later adopted by many educators, gradually spreading across the United States. This is a modern educational approach, where Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics are used together to teach and guide students. STEAM represents a shift from the conventional grade-focused education system, aiming to help students understand the connections between different fields of knowledge and apply what they learn to real-life situations.
Recognizing the importance of STEAM education, the 3SR startup team from the University of Education – Vietnam National University, Hanoi has applied the STEAM approach to waste sorting and recycling.
In the early stages of operation, 3SR created STEAM products made from discarded paper scraps that people often throw away. These products are listed in the rewards catalog so users can easily exchange their earned virtual points for them. Additionally, our startup team buys and exchanges STEAM products that students and creators design and recycle themselves.
All activities of 3SR place education as the top priority — with the goal of fostering environmental awareness and creativity in recycling among students and the wider community. With continuous efforts, the project aims to develop recycled products not only from waste paper but also from plastic waste, organic waste, and more.
The SR1 mobile app will support students, teachers, and parents in implementing this recycling project more easily and effectively within schools.