The Experiences of Secondary School Students in Using Robotics to Transform E-Waste: Process and Products

Author : Sakine Ongoz, Mehmet Zulkuf Mollamehmetoglu

Abstract :In this study, secondary school students used robotics to transform e-waste into usable products. The Stanford Design Thinking Model was used to develop activities, appropriate for the ages of the students, for implementation outside of school hours. 28 volunteer students, divided into seven collaborative groups of four, participated in the 146 hour process. The students had developed the following by the end of the program: ‘Smart Irrigation System,’ ‘Battery Meter,’ ‘Distance Meter,’ ‘Smart Walking Stick’ ‘Bluetooth Sound System,’ ‘Trash Can Sound System’ and ‘Smart Lamp.’ These products were evaluated according to criteria specified in the literature. The data used in this evaluation are observations, video recordings, and the products themselves. Three-dimensional drawings, diagrams, and codes produced by the students were used to support the findings, and photographs of the products were also included. The design-focused thinking approach positively affected product performance, allowing students to both produce and test prototypes. All of the products developed are working systems. The Stanford Design Thinking Model provided a practical framework for the teaching of interdisciplinary and complex skills to secondary school students

Keywords :Collaborative Learning, Design Thinking, Transformation of E-waste, Robotics

Conference Name :International Conference on Education Sciences, Distance Education and Educational Technology (ICESDEET-2025)

Conference Place Toronto, Canada

Conference Date 25th Aug 2025