QR Codes

I recently came across this fantastic File Binder on QR codes and using them in education. There's no point in reinventing the wheel, so set aside half an hour to go through the many applications they have to the classroom. If you're completely new to QR codes, they are basically graphics (such as the one to the right) that are read by a 'QR Reader'. These are most conveniently installed on camera-phones and when read will reveal a link, some text (up to 4000 characters) or other information. If you have a camera on your phone, go to your apps store and search for 'QR Reader.' Once downloaded and installed, open the app and select something like 'Get from camera' before pointing it at the black & white box on the right of this post. See what happens? Generate your own codes here. Below are just some of the many uses they can have in education.

Integration:

• Use them to create a treasure hunt or web quest; make it even easier with this site.
• In paper-based media, they are much tidier than long web addresses so incorporate them into print materials for learners where they need to visit websites
• Turn posters into interactive tools where learners can scan various QR codes to follow a certain path of learning; some of my learners made a poster about Shakespeare's life and chose to use QR codes to guide their audience to further information
• In the library, print & stick QR codes into books; these could contain review from other students, reflective questions to consider during reading, related book titles/ISBNs etc
• Create a quiz where the answers are revealed by reading the QR code so there is no temptation to look at the answer before it is considered

Inspired by more ideas? Share them in the comments below.