QR codes might sound scarily complicated - they did to me at
first - but they're surprisingly easy to use and can be an
informative and fun addition to the classroom.
What is a QR code?
A QR code is a barcode which can be read by webcams or smart
phones. Smart phones require a free app, such as Red
Laser, to scan the barcode. When the barcode is scanned,
information appears on the phone screen or computer. This
information can be text, a web address, an email address or a
video. You can generate your own QR codes, using a website such as
QRStuff, and put them in worksheets, in emails
and online. Have a look at the QR code I made as an example:
How can you use QR codes in
schools?
Check out the Classroom in the
Cloud blog for some great ideas using QR codes. How about using
an interactive whitebord to record lesson notes and key ideas? You
can put the video online and add a QR code to a homework assignment
so that students can go over the lesson at home.
You could create a puzzle-solving lesson out of QR codes. Put QR
codes around the school building - each QR code leads to a new
science based clue. The clue leads the students to the next QR code
- it's a 21st century treasure hunt!
What about a Periodic Table
of QR codes for your classroom? Brady Haran from Periodic Videos, has created a periodic
table with QR codes in place of the elements. Each QR code takes
you to a video about the appropriate element.
To download the high resolution version of the Periodic Table of
QR codes, go to the Periodic Videos Flickr
photostream.
Have you used QR codes in the classroom? Let us know! We'll
share the best ideas on Planet Science. Email planetscience@tinopolis.com.