Thursday, May 8, 2014

Thing #9: QR Codes

QR codes are quick and painless--just what we need this time of year!


These are bar codes that can link to a URL or file when scanned with a SmartPhone or tablet.


QR creators

I usually use http://qrcode.kaywa.com/
Switch to "static" setting (as opposed to "dynamic") and you don't need an account.  Paste in the URL, copy and paste or save the image to your files.
I have also used http://www.visualead.com/, which embeds your code into a pretty picture.

QR readers:

Have your students go to their app store and search for free QR readers.

Uses:

Here's a start but you will come up with more (which you will kindly share)!!
Attach to your website or blog on handouts to parents on Open House night.
Attach a Google Drive or Dropbox file.
Paste onto a handout for any website you want students to access--homework or classwork.
Post it on your SmartBoard (make it big) for students to access in class.
Have students form groups so that each one has someone with a QR reader.
Create a scavenger hunt in the class for groups to use.
Tack up a tutorial for when students get stuck.
Find a fun picture on Google Images. Go to view image and put that URL into a QR code.
Post QRs around your room for sites/files you want students to access frequently.
Make QR codes for apps you recommend.

This article has a great ideas!  Or Google QR code education for a gazillion more articles.

iPads are so close you can taste them!

Thing #10 will be the SmartBoard workshop next Thursday, May 22. Come with a lesson idea you want to create--or not.
Blog about your experience with QR codes and Thing #10 by May 30! 
Winners will be announced at the June faculty meeting!