QR codes

How does it work?

QR code should work with any mobile camera phone that has a QR reader, which is freely available online for most devices.

The software interprets the code, and the cell phone will either display the text or ask for permission to launch a browser.

Why is it significant?

The idea of linking spaces to information is not new, but QR codes combine simple creation with easy access to QR code readers.

What are the downsides?

Not everyone like QR codes. Taken as a whole, it is impractical to expect students to be able to capture coursework information from QR codes without some support.

Beyond that, while projects like the one at Bath University are investigating potential uses.

Who’s doing it?

QR codes are popular in Japan, where they are used for commercial tracking, logistics, inventory con-trol, and advertising.

QR codes might also be effective repositories of data in problem-solving activities involving role play or alternate reality games.

What is it?

QR codes are two-dimensional bar codes that can contain any alphanumeric text and often feature URLs that direct users to sites where they can learn about an object or place.

What are the implications for
teaching and learning?

In this way, the codes support experien-tial learning, bringing scholarship out of the classroom and into physical experience. QR codes help students engaged in study abroad can use the codes to read websites in their native languages.

Where is it going?

Commercial packaging will display codes with detailed nutritional information or links to web-sites where users can play the latest product-associated gameor register for updates or coupons.

QR codes might lead students to open forums where they could join in com-munity discussions about what they’ve heard or seen.