I was today years old when I learned that “QR” code stood for Quick Response. This technology tool has quickly become my favorite of the many layered technologies offered to educators. Working in a middle school where students crave the opportunity to use their devices, there are a plethora of options to employ the QR code in the Library. Linking a code to a book recommendation, either recorded by the librarian, another student or the author, then placing the codes on the shelving of the books would aid students in book choice and hopefully engage them to check out new material. QR codes could be used around the school to link to signups for lunch in the library or makerspace times during their free periods. Finally, I think it would be fun to put QR codes on Due Date slips with book trailers for new books in the collection.
I created my own QR code linked to the Google Arts & Culture “Swim with the Sharks in 360 Degrees.” When I first opened the virtual field trip, I wondered aloud, “Where are the Sharks?” Then after a quick scroll to the right.. “Woah!” The image went from calm waters to dozens of sharks in the water. The element of surprise added to the impact of the experience. As I journeyed through the slides, at times I thought, “Oh no, now I’m lost!” and scrolled back to join the divers. At the end of the trip I earned a “Bookworm Badge: Congratulations you read to the end of the story!” I think students would readily take these virtual field trips and the experience would linger even after they finish. Well worth the time.
To view the “Swim with the Sharks in 360 Degree,” scan the QR code:
I love your suggestions of having QR codes on the shelves, especially linking it to the authors’ own words or recommendations from a peer!
We used a similar expedition in a virtual field trip with my preschoolers (who love Baby Shark) last year. It was a huge hit!
I also didn’t know that QR stands for Quick Response! That makes sense. I love how your QR code has a heart in it too. I need to get my older students to make recommendation videos for each other and give book recommendations. What a simple idea that they will respond well too! I recommend books all of the time, but we all know they care about what their peers think a ton!! Thanks for the great idea.
Wow I just learned what QR stands for too!! It makes sense.
You had some great ideas for QR codes. Especially about the book recommendations. I am always looking for new authors. It would be so helpful if the libraries had links to similar authors.
Me three! I had no idea that’s what QR stood for. QR codes would be great for lunch sign ups–great idea!
I think that many of us were educated on the meaning of the QR in QR codes! I didn’t know what it meant either! I always tell my kids that it’s a good day if you have learned something new, so I guess that makes today a good day!
The shark expedition was a really cool virtual field trip and one I would definitely want to experience virtually rather than in person! My favorite part of the Ripley’s Aquarium in Myrtle Beach is the people mover that takes you through a giant aquarium with huge sharks in it!
I love your idea for QR codes on the book shelves. I will be using this idea in the future. I also went to the underwater shark experience. It took me some time to figure out it was the same image for the details of the topic. Scrolling to see the sharks was amazing, especially the first image that you mentioned with the sea full of them.