QR Codes for the Classroom

Introduction: 

QR codes or Quick Response codes are a great addition to any classroom. The QR code works like a bar code which can be scanned in order to obtain information, a link to a website, or even a video. QR scanners are available for many operating systems including Android as well as the ipad or iphone. Searching for a QR Code Generator or Scanner is made simple by searching "QR Code" on your "Android Market" or "App Store." If you already have a QR Scanner downloaded, scan the code to the left and you will be directed to my classroom website!

Classroom Applications: 

• Word Walls are research based and allow learners to have a daily visual reminder of classroom vocabulary. I struggled as a secondary teacher with placing the definition of the word on my word wall because last year I had to constantly remove and replace the words for assessments. This year I created a classroom word wall using QR Codes. By using a simple template I type in the vocabulary word that the students are focusing on for the week. Then, I create a QR code using the Kaywa QR Code Generator (http://qrcode.kaywa.com/) and upload the picture file to the template. During each one of my three periods of reading the students "discover" the meaning of their new word by scanning the QR codes on the classroom Word Wall and record the meaning. Students draw pictures to represent the meaning of each word to complete the word wall addition.
• Sorting Activities: Since QR codes allow you to embed links, pictures, and definitions, students get the opportunity to watch movies or examples of the concept as well as record the definition. This week the students learned about the differences between similes and metaphors. While traditionally I had printed off slips of paper with examples of similes and metaphors and had the students sort them, this year with the addition of three ipads in my classroom I decided to put an extra spin on the activity. By creating QR codes with links to popular songs and video clips the students sorted the QR codes into similes and metaphors by viewing the clips and deciding if the lyrics had an example of a simile or a metaphor. 
• Resource Links on Classroom Handouts: If students are struggling to understand a concept a QR code link might make the difference. Place a QR code with a link to online notes or resources strategically on the handout. This allows students either at home or on a bus to activities (such as sporting events), to see notes or materials from that day's lesson. The easiest way that I have found to complete this task is to create a QR code link to my classroom website. I can then use the SAME QR code, but change the page to accommodate the lesson of the day.