QR Codes stand for "Quick Response Codes" and are
used to allow mobile devises like smart phones and tablets to use their cameras
to scan the code, providing immediate access to specific content like messages
and web pages. Computers that have web cameras can also be used to scanning and
using QR codes.
Concerning their use in the classroom, QR codes are great
way for the teacher to help focus learning by directing students to specific
sites and content. QR codes can be used for assessment; students can look up
correct responses with QR codes after they've selected they answer they think
is correct. They are also great for providing additional information on
whatever topic is being addressed. For example, if students were learning about
different types of landforms, QR codes could be placed on an illustration of
landforms. As students click on each QR code, additional information could name
the land form, give a definition, even include photographs to illustrate more
examples.
Below I used QR codes in a couple of ways. The first will be
used in my classroom on Back-To-School Night. Instead of creating a long list
of websites for parents to copy and type into their Internet browser, I set up
QR codes linking them to information pertaining to our school, lunch menus, bus
route information, forms, even a link to my blog online.
As stated earlier, QR codes can provide additional
support for student learning and don't always need to be used to link the user
to specific websites. Here I used QR codes for students when reviewing the
parts of a compass. Instead of connecting to a website, these codes are
linked to specific text that tells the direction a particular compass arrow is
pointing or providing alternate names for main and middle directions.
QR codes are available through many sites on the Internet.
Just typing "QR code generator" in the address bar will review a
plethora of resources to get started. While some sites are completely free to
use (like http://snap.vu/), many will offer a few free tries before offering
pricing information. I've seen sites offer their services for as little as
$5.00 a month and up (one example is https://app.qr-code-generator.com),
depending on the needs of the user and the features available. QR codes
don't always have to look like a blizzard, either. Some sites,
like http://www.visualead.com/, allow QR codes to be made that are
superimposed over pictures or place a picture or clip are in the center of the
code. Most of these sites will require a paid membership to make more than a
couple of codes.
Teachers will want to consider using QR codes in their
classrooms for a number of reasons. In addition to the pedagogical uses listed
above, QR code are a convenient way to like a person to the material presented
without the hassle of copying addresses or finding the right program on the
computer for viewing. Sites could be shared via QR codes for professional
development, sharing messages with parents about their child's performance, and
linking materials for additional practice or extensions of learning. With five
minutes of patience and practice, any teacher can make and use QR codes in
her/his classroom.
(Click on the link above for descriptions of the following
standards this tool can address.)
Creativity and innovation (a, c)
Communication and collaboration
(a, b, d)
Research and information fluency
(a, b, c, d)
Critical thinking, problem
solving, and decision making (b, c, d)
Digital citizenship (a, b, c, d)
Technology operations and
concepts (a, c, d)
(Click on the link above for descriptions of the following
standards this tool can address.)
Facilitate and Inspire student
learning and creativity (a, b, c,d)
Design and develop digital age
learning experiences and assessments (a, b, c, d)
. Model digital age work and
learning (a, b, c, d)
Promote and model digital
citizenship and responsibility (a, b)
Engage in professional growth and
leadership (a, d)
Sources:
Eridon, C. (2015, February 10). How to Make a QR Code in 4
Quick Steps. Retrieved July 11, 2015, from
http://blog.hubspot.com/blog/tabid/6307/bid/29449/How-to-Create-a-QR-Code-in-4-Quick-Steps.aspx
Free QR code generator, create QR codes and track use |
snap.vu. (n.d.). Retrieved July 12, 2015, from http://snap.vu/
Standards for Teachers. (n.d.). Retrieved July 12, 2015,
from http://www.iste.org/standards/ISTE-standards/standards-for-teachers
ISTE Standards for Students. (n.d.). Retrieved July 12,
2015, from http://www.iste.org/standards/ISTE-standards/standards-for-students
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