What's Up With QR Codes?

Some of you might be wondering what those funny looking cut-outs are all over York Elementary School.  They are called QR (Quick Response) Codes.  They are  becoming pretty popular and I bet you have seen them in magazines, at the supermarket, or even in the newspaper.  QR codes are basically barcodes on steroids.  They can hold a ton of data and are relatively easy to use and create. Check out this YouTube video of an elementary child explaining a use for QR codes:


via marragem's Channel on YouTube

There are a myriad of ideas when it comes to using QR Codes in the classroom.  I have integrated a couple of ideas the first couple weeks of school.  As you wander through the media center you may have noticed several QR Codes.  I have linked several of our more popular books to various media so our kids can meet the author or see a trailer made especially for a book they are wanting to check out.  In the next month or so you will be seeing more of them in the media center (and hopefully around the school) as kids start producing book trailers and podcasts that other kids, parents and teachers will be able to check out using the QR Code reader on their smart phones or other digital devices.
How do you read a QR Code?  It's actually quite easy.  If you have a smartphone or other digital device,  download the QR code app and you are ready to be informed.

Android phone app
iPhone/iPod/iPad app 

When it comes to creating your QR Code, it is relatively easy.  I have had a lot of success with a QR Code generator called Kawya.  It is very easy to use and will fit the needs for your classroom.

Here are some additional links for ideas on how to use QR Codes in your classroom:


QR Code Scavenger Hunt

10 Ways

Tons of Ideas!

QR Code Scavenger Hunt Generator <---Awesome idea!


Here is a LiveBinder with a wealth of information pertaining to QR Codes:

I currently have an iPad and iPod in the media center set up to read QR Codes.  If this sounds like something you would like to integrate into your class, I would love to help you plan and design a technology rich lesson involving QR Codes! 

Good Luck!