QR (quick response) Codes are like barcodes on steroids! They enable anyone with a QR reader app on their smartphone/tablet to scan the code using the device’s onboard camera, which then creates a shortcut to a variety different links. Shortcuts may include links to website address, email accounts, pictures, videos, audio files, maps etc…
This QR Code links to a very informative Common Craft video which further explains QR codes:
Before you can use QR codes you need to visit a website to build it. Here are a list of sites used to create QR codes:
- Self-guided tour of the school or the classroom:- QR codes could be place at key locations throughout the school and linked to an audio file which further explains the location and what should happen there. For example, my school follows the EBS/PBS model for discipline, and one of the major components of EBS is the school matrix. The school matrix outlines our code of conduct (Safe, Helpful, Awesome Attitude, Responsible, and Kind) and how it should be applied in various areas of the school (classroom, transitions, playground, assemblies etc…). At the beginning fo each school year, or when new students arrive, QR codes could be placed in the above locations and linked to an audio files which would explain the matrix in detail.
- Student art gallery walk:- Any visual art lesson can be converted into a multimedia gallery type exhibition using QR codes. For example, if my students are working on examples of op-art, they can transform their 2-dimensional drawing into multi-sensory displays by attaching a QR code to the picture. The QR code may then link to an audio file, which further explains the artwork. In the audio file students can reflect on their work and use metacognition to express what was easy/difficult about the process. They can also link their work to additional text and videos on the subject of op-art to encourage others to develope a deeper understanding of the concept. Finally, students could assess each others work by recording feedback, creating a QR code and attaching it below the artwork. Thus creating a comment section similar to a blog.
- QR Codes attached to homework:- Attach a QR code to your student’s place value homework which links to a video you made using Explain Everything (A video creation tool for the iPad). The video can reinforce the skill of understanding the value of each digit in a number. This has huge potential for occasions when support at home is not available.
- Guest Teachers:- Guest teachers who substitute in your room may feel more comfortable if they can follow some of the existing classroom rules/expectations. QR codes could be place on the mobile computer lab, for example, to explain the rules of using the equipment.
- Student jobs:– In my classroom we share the responsibility for keeping the classroom clean and tidy. QR codes could be place at various points in the classroom to reinforce what steps should be taken in order to make sure the bookshelf is fully cleaned, or to explain how to take attendance and where to take it when it’s completed.