QR Codes

What is a QR Code?

A QR code, or quick response code is similar to a barcode, but can contain much more information.

What types of information can be captured in a QR code?

• web addresses

• YouTube videos

• Google Map locations

• Twitter

• Facebook

• LinkedIn

• Foursquare

• App Store downloads

• iTunes links

• Dropbox

• Plain text

• Telephone numbers

• Skype calls

• SMS messages

• Email addresses

• Email messages

• Contact info

• Events

• and more

How are codes read?

You need:

• a computer with built in camera and web access

• a mobile device with a camera and access to apps

• an app to read QR codes (find at iTunes, Google Play...) I like QR reader for iOS

Open the app and hold the camera squarely over the QR code. Once scanned, it will link to whatever information it contains, like a website, or text.

How do you create codes?

Install this Google Chrome Extension. When you visit a page you want to create a code for, go up to your extensions (puzzle piece icon), select Qr Code Generator, and click download. The QR code can be found in your downloads.

Use a site, such as http://www.qrstuff.com, https://qrcode.kaywa.com, https://www.the-qrcode-generator.com/ to enter your content. The code is created can be downloaded or you can screen shot it (shift - command - 4 on a Mac, print screen on a PC, or use Skitch.) Codes can be printed or placed on a website.

How can QR codes be used in education?

• Dice - purchase big, puffy dice and place a QR code on each side. The QR code can link to anything!

  • Elements of a story, math problems, tasks, websites, scavenger hunt...

• Link to Polls

  • link to PollEverywhere or Mentimeter....

• Share link to website without having to type it

• Place QR codes on maps - link to information about the locations

• Put a QR code on a book to link to author info, or if the book is read online, link to that