QR (Quick Response) Codes in the Classroom

Recently, I've been receiving a number of articles and blog posting about the use of QR (Quick Response) codes in the classroom. While reading the Using QR Codes in Education blog post on the ISTE website, I started watching the following embedded YouTube video, Black & White and Scanned All Over, which helped me put this unique technology into perspective. 

 

From a professional development perspective, QR codes can be an efficient way for teachers to access Web-based supplemental materials.  Even on print-based handouts that many teachers prefer to have on hand, QR codes can be used to reduce the amount of printing and place links to even more resources on the World Wide Web.  QR codes can be read with any device that has a camera and an appropriate reader.  Devices such as the iPhone and iPad 2 can read QR codes.  Scan the QR code to the right to view an example that links to a Web page.  Below you will find links to (1) QR code generators that are free on the web, (2) QR reader apps for the iPhone and iPad 1/2 and (2) integration ideas for classroom use.  Enjoy and share any thoughts and/or resources you may have in the comments sections below!

QR Code Generators

• Kaywa
• Qurify
• Free QR Code Generator
• QR Code Generator by BarCode News

 iPhone/iPad 2 QR Reader Apps

• QR Reader for iPhone/iPad
• i-nigma QR Code, Data Matrix and 1D barcode reader for iPhone/iPad
• QR Scanner for iPhone/iPad

Integrating QR Codes in the Classroom

• iPhone in Education: Using QR Code in the Classroom
• Using QR Codes in the Classroom
• 10 Ways to Use QR Codes in Your Classroom
• Periodic Table of Videos - A great way to introduce QR Codes to teachers for professional development initiatives.
• How to set up a QR Code Treasure Hunt
• QR Code Treasure Hunt Generator
• Link to the SMART Board math and science activities used in episode 26 of the Technology Tips for Classroom Teachers vodcast.

 

The Difference Between a Student and a Learner

Technology, curriculum standards, organizational culture, innovation, 21st century skills, and other variables, have greatly contributed to the paradigm shifts we see today in K-12 education.  Many blog postings and articles have been published describing today's role of a teacher as a facilitator of the learning and instructional processes from the traditional role of the teacher-centered instructional delivery medium and sole expert of content knowledge.  As I watched and listened to this interesting video entitled Student/Learner 3.0: The Teacher, I asked myself "is there a difference between a student and a learner?

 

I would argue that there is a difference between the two in today's classrooms. In my short explanation, a student is highly dependent on the teacher defining what, when, and how to acquire knowledge while a learner expects the teacher to guide, or facilitate, to seek explanations as to "why" we acquire knowledge. There would be deeper explanation to my interpretation, but tell us what you think.

No Future Left Behind

As I watched this YouTube video that I came across via Twitter over a week ago, I began reflecting on my experiences as an instructional technology and design professional working directly with K-12 classroom teachers and administrators.  In the occasional isolated instances where I observed effective integration of instructional technology tied to curriculum, in combination with great classroom management and instructional strategies, learning and understanding of content/concepts appeared to be a natural yet engaging process for 21st century learners.  When students are in a learning environment where they have to think, solve real-world problems, collaborate, utilize technologies that help accomplish learning goals and objectives, and take control of their own learning, they are engaged and test scores are typically impacted in a positive direction.  This video brings up a number of pondering questions and messages; particularly in the fact that learning is not confined to the classroom walls.  What messages do you think this video is sending about where education needs to be headed?

Who knew you could do this with a Wii remote?

When I watched this YouTube video, I thought to myself "who knew that a Nintendo Wii remote can be used to create a simple interactive whiteboard?" As a casual video gamer myself, I never thought of how the infrared (IR) technology at the end of a Wii remote controller can have potential implications in the K-12 classroom; especially for school districts with limited technology budgets. Although the ideas presented in this video are innovative and exciting, they do pose some limitations. Nevertheless, gaming devices, or gaming in general, will have educational implications. What are your thoughts?