I had no idea how easy it would be to create a QR code, but it was super simple. I already had a QR reader app on my phone which I have used when we traveled abroad mostly for accessing public transportation maps and info. I have also used it for touch-less checkout at Publix (grocery store). I used both QR code generators, QR Stuff and QR Code Monkey, with each taking only a couple of minutes to generate the QR code.
In a school (or public) library, it might be fun for the students to scan the QR codes and have them linked to an audio book, an e-book, or even a podcast. In the school district where I work, we will be 1:1 with Chromebooks with webcams, due to COVID, so this would be something we can utilize. This would be a great option to use during distance learning to give the students a chance to access books in a different way. I work with K-5 and they absolutely love trying new things with technology.
For older students, QR codes could be used to find different genres / specific books in the library by doing a scavenger hunt. When they find one item, they scan the QR code which gives them a clue to finding the next book on the list. The codes could be linked to websites that have specific characteristics of the genre / book they are trying to find. I wonder if it would be possible to do a virtual scavenger hunt when the library isn’t accessible with the QR codes linking to digital media.
QR codes can keep our students actively involved and give them the opportunity to explore books and reading in a different way.
July 3, 2020 at 11:38 am
Kate,
I was surprised too with the ease to create QR codes. I like your idea of how to use QR codes in the library.
Fanny
July 5, 2020 at 3:21 am
Hi Kate,
I love your idea about using QR codes for a scavenger hunt in the library and even the possibility of doing it virtually. I’m already thinking through how I might be able to do something like that with my classes next year. I also agree with you about how easy it was to create a QR code. I can’t believe I had never created one until now! Definitely something I will use in the future.
Julie
July 7, 2020 at 4:08 pm
I like the idea of a scavenger hunt too. That might even be fun for back to school night for families to scan in different areas of the building to learn more about a teacher or program.
July 7, 2020 at 6:01 pm
The QR codes were so easy, I couldn’t believe it. I really like your ideas for the scavenger hunt. I think this would keep the kids engaged longer. I had Google come out a few years ago and when they students scanned the codes, different images would come alive in 3D. They loved it!