Today's question from a reader:
I'm seeing QR codes more frequently, what are they and how can I use them?
QR Codes 101
According to Wikipedia, "A QR code (an acronym for Quick Response code) is a type of matrix barcode (or two-dimensional barcode) invented in 1994 by the Japanese automotive company Denso Wave. A barcode is a machine-readable optical label that contains information about the item to which it is attached. In practice, QR codes often contain data for a locator, identifier, or tracker that points to a website or application."
While QR codes have been around for some time, the pandemic has made them even more popular. I see QR codes in restaurants to access online menus. If you are interested, click here for a New York Times article on this topic.
How to Scan a QR Code
Most smartphones have a QR reader built into the native camera app. To scan a QR code, open your camera app and point it at the QR code. Then follow the directions on your screen. On my iPhone, I need to click the link in the pop-up notification.
On Chromebooks, you can scan QR codes the same way - with the built-in camera app. There is a tutorial with pictures at Create and Scan QR codes with a Chromebook. This is only true for Chromebooks running OS89 or higher so it doesn't work Chromebooks that can no longer update, like my staff Chromebook.
How to Create a QR Code
Chrome has recently made it super easy to create a QR code - just a click on the QR button in your URL bar! For more information, check out Share pages with a QR Code.
QR Codes in the Classroom
If you are interested, here are some ways to use QR codes in the classroom:
* 8 Ways I Make Learning Fun by Using QR Codes in The Classroom at We are Teachers
Have you used QR codes? What has been your experience?
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